Hey there,

It’s Monday, and this week we have a very special menu for you: Sunlight 

I’ve thoughtfully assembled this menu, choosing each dish for its significance and nutritional composition. I hope you are hungry, because it’s time to get served.

Enjoy!

Starter 🥗 

A Deadly Star

There could be no life without it. Despite our inability to see it sometimes, it is constantly there. It can store about 1.3 million earths and has a direct impact on our body and mind. What am I taking about?

The Sun ☀️ 

The sun is the only star in our solar system. Its ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the immune system, skin, and eyes. Over time, excessive sun exposure can lead to decreased water availability, greater illness and disease incidence, higher death rates, and adverse effects on mental health. Sounds dangerous, right?

Main 🥙 

Is Sunlight Healthy?

Sun exposure: Sunlight affects us in both positive and negative ways. Too much can lead to severe health damage, but too little can as well. However, sun exposure is required for vitamin D synthesis and optimal health. I guess it is about finding the right balance (as always 😉).

Benefits: Exposure to sunlight may…

• increase the brain’s release of the hormone seratonin (responsible for mood boosting, feeling calm and focused).

• help you regulate your circadian rhythm and sleep cycle.

• reduce the likelihood of developing depression and seasonal affective disorders.

• lower blood pressure and lower the risk of heart attacks.

• aid with weight loss.

Dangers: Low UV radiation exposure from sunshine has been associated with an increased likelihood of dying from heart disease and a significantly higher annual illness burden of 3.3 billion DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) worldwide, according to a WHO report.

Excessive sun exposure is linked to cancer, wrinkles, skin damage, and premature aging. Some studies indicate that too much sunlight can lower immune system functioning. 

How much sunlight do we need? It depends on the UV index and your skin type. Most experts recommend 5-30 minutes of sunlight at least twice a week. Quality > quantity

Dessert 🍰 

Enjoy The Sunlight Safely

Getting enough sunlight is not only necessary, but it might be a real game changer. However, prolonged exposure without adequate protection can result in health problems. Be cautious when enjoying sunlight ☀️.

How to enjoy sunlight safely:

1. Try to catch sunlight in the morning 🌄 and in the evening 🌇 when the UV index is low (your body’s internal clock will also thank you & it will make it easier for you to fall asleep at night).

2. Avoid too much sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (when the UV rays are the strongest 💪 ).

3. Wear protective clothing 👕 and sunglasses 🕶️ to reduce damage from the sun.

4. Apply sunscreen 🧴 (An essential!).

5. Catch at least 5-15 minutes of sunlight, 2-3 times a week (set an alarm ⏰).

My tip: On a sunny day, take your phone calls and meetings outside.

Snacks 🥜 

Dad Joke of the Week

A Friendly Reminder

A Deep Question

What are you most thankful for?

You aren’t satisfied yet?

Here are my sources and personal recommendations for you:

• 🎙️ Podcasts: How Sunlight Affects Everything You Do & Why Morning Light Is So Crucial To Your Health

• 📚️ Books: The Healing Sun & Chasing The Sun

• 📑 Articles: What happens to your body when you get daily doses of sunlight? & Overview of Effects of Sunlight

Thank you for being here 💝 

Looking forward to serving you next week.

Much love,

Benji