Sunbathing...

 

The last couple of days have been so nice and warm, and I just cannot resist taking a little time during our noon hour to go lay out in the sunshine and soak up some rays.  The last month or so I've been battling a cold/flu or some such thing, and I think what I need most is a good shot of sunshine.  We know that the sun produces vitamin D in our bodies which we really need for so many bodily functions, but did you know there are lots of other things the sun does for our bodies?  According to Dr. Mercola's article here, sunshine provides us with lots of goodness.  It enhances mood and energy through the release of endorphins and  treats skin diseases, such as psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and scleroderma.  It can synchronize important biorhythms through sunlight entering your eye and striking your retina. Sunshine regulates melatonin, can relieve fibromyalgia pain, and can suppress symptoms of MS.  My mom had MS and she swore that being in the sunshine really helped her.  I think she just loved the sunshine, and that in itself gave her a positive outlook on the day.

Born in the summer month of July, I am a sun-lover.  And I even think that it is something that I truly need.  (If I were a flower, I'd be a sunflower.)  I always feel better after spending even 20 minutes sunbathing.  I like the warmth, the relaxation, the energy it exudes, and I think it helps my attitude and mood.  Whenever I relax in the sun, Sue thinks I should throw the ball for her, so here she is, tossing the ball at my feet so I will throw it for her to chase.  

Have you ever noticed how much animals love to soak in the sunshine?  They know it's good for them too.  Here on the ranch, we often see cows or bulls lying on their sides, bellies pointed toward the sun, soaking in the warmth.  It's almost as if they know that they need that sun shining on their underbelly, giving them their needed energy and vitamin D.  Did you know that without sunlight -- or at the least, artificial light -- chickens won't produce eggs? 

 Back in the old days, they used to take the ill, the aged, and the infirmed outdoors to sit in the sunshine.  Perhaps they knew something that many of us have forgotten today.  Sunshine has lots of benefits!  Are you catching any springtime rays?  Are you one who needs some sunshine every day?  How do you think the sun benefits you?
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"A day without sunshine is like, you know, night."
~Steve Martin

A day without sunshine is like, you know, night.
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