Greetings from Mount Shasta.
It has been a beautiful retreat time here at the mountain with replenishment and nature, which I will bring back to you on Monday.
Today I will share with you some information about sun exposure, since many of us believe it is really bad for us, and we cover our bodies in zinc oxide.
The truth is, that safe and sensible sun exposure can do wonders for our health. Therapeutic sunlight allows your skin to produce generous amounts of vitamin D, a steroid hormone, which has been found in every single cell, from brain to bones, which explains its massive health influence.
Vitamin D :
- Helps maintain a steady blood pressure
- Boosts our immune system
- Enhances muscle strength
- Keeps teeth and bones strong and healthy
- Supports cardiovascular health
- Synchronizes our circadian rhythm
- Improves mood & energy levels
- Relieves fibromyalgia pains and aches
- Regulates melatonin production
Your body can receive as much as 20.000 units of Vitamin D per day if you have enough skin exposed to the sun. You only need 20 minutes per day. Just exposing your hands and face to sunlight is not enough, to get your Vitamin D levels to a healthier range. To optimize your levels, you need to expose large portions of your skin to the sun, but always protect your eyes and face. The key difference between optimal sun exposure and sunburn is knowledge.
Although commercial sunscreen is the most common form of skin protection, it is the most misguided effort to minimize burning and reduce skin cancer risks. Recent studies prove that most sun creams, sprays and gels contain photo-carcinogenic ingredients and other harmful chemicals, that encourage DNA damage, disrupt hormones, increase the risk of skin cancer, and block the benefits of the sun.
Here are some oils you can use to make your own sun lotions.
I used it here and it relay works well and moistens the skin and makes it really soft.
Try out a mix and create your favorites.
- Raspberry seed oil (SPF 30-35)
- Wheat germ oil (SPF 20)
- Shea butter (SPF 6-10)
- Coconut oil (SPF 4-10)
- Macadamia oil (SPF 6)
- Jojoba oil (SPF 4)
- Avocado oil (SPF 4)
And of course drink lots of water, more than you think you need.
Many Blessings
And a joyful summer
Claudia
