Drawer menu
A Conversation on Wellbeing.
While it’s no secret that too much sun can be harmful, posing risks like skin cancer for those who skip sunscreen or protective clothing, there’s also a sunny side to sunlight that’s essential for our well-being, especially for women. In fact, soaking up some rays can do wonders for your body, mood, and overall health.
The Importance of Sunlight for Women’s Health.
It's important to strike a balance when it comes to sun exposure. Yes, overexposure, particularly during peak hours (between 12 and 3 PM), can lead to skin damage from UVA and UVB rays. However, moderate and mindful sun exposure plays a crucial role in supporting women's hormonal cycles, overall wellness, and more. With more sunnier days ahead, it’s time to embrace the benefits of sunlight, even if you’re spending most of your time in the city.
Let’s explore the ways sunlight can enhance your health.
Just 20 minutes of sunlight each day can help regulate your sleep. Sunlight exposure in the morning signals your brain to stop producing melatonin, the hormone responsible for your sleep-wake cycle, helping you stay alert during the day and sleep better at night.
Sunlight doesn’t just help you sleep; it also keeps stress at bay. By regulating melatonin levels, natural light helps reduce stress reactivity. Additionally, outdoor activities like walking or playing in the sun get your body moving, which further lowers stress levels. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, a simple walk in the sun might be just what you need.
Sunlight is your body’s best source of vitamin D, a critical nutrient for bone health. When your skin is exposed to the sun, it triggers the production of vitamin D from cholesterol, which helps your body absorb calcium. While you can find vitamin D in foods like fatty fish and fortified dairy, nothing beats the natural boost you get from the sun.
Vitamin D doesn’t just strengthen bones, it’s also vital for a healthy immune system. Regular, safe sun exposure can help your body ward off illnesses, infections, and even reduce the risk of some cancers. A strong immune system is particularly important for women, as it can also support reproductive health and improve recovery times post-surgery.
Feeling down? Sunshine might be the perfect pick-me-up. Natural light increases your body’s production of serotonin, the “happiness hormone” which helps lift your mood, keeps you calm, and enhances focus. For those who struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the darker months, spending more time in the sun can be particularly beneficial.
Surprisingly, safe sun exposure might actually protect you from certain types of skin cancer. Research published in The Lancet suggests that moderate exposure to UVB rays may be linked to a lower risk of melanoma. Additionally, studies indicate that adequate sunlight might reduce the risk of other cancers, such as colon, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer.
While it’s essential to be cautious with sun exposure, the benefits of sunlight for women’s health are undeniable. By making the most of sunny days, you can improve your sleep, boost your mood, strengthen your immune system, and even protect your bones. So, embrace the sunshine, just remember to do it safely!
As I conclude, know that you are not alone on this path to better health and wellness. Your journey is unique but together we form a community of strength and support.
Let’s thrive together,
Cristina x
