You Need To Photosynthesize

Image Courtesy: Madi Denizard

We’ve all been told once or twice by our doctor that we need more vitamin D, and if you’re on the holistic side of social media, like I am, you have heard of the importance of getting sunlight in the morning. Like a plant, you need to photosynthesize. 

In this society, the sun is associated with sunburns and cancer and generally carries a negative connotation. Yet the obsession with tanning– whether it be fake tan, tanning beds, or lying out for hours despite warnings from others– never disappears. We villainize sunlight, rather than acknowledging its benefits for our bodies, in moderation, of course (and sunscreen!). 

So, what are the benefits of sunlight on your skin? 

Well, first of all, vitamin D is an essential nutrient required for proper bodily function. In the article Benefits of Sunlight: A Bright Spot for Human Health by M Nathaniel Mead, it is stated, “At least 1,000 different genes governing virtually every tissue in the body are now thought to be regulated by [vitamin D], including several involved in calcium metabolism and neuromuscular and immune system functioning.”

Notice the mention of calcium? Yeah, that refers to our bones. The sun supports bone health and strength, which is important for those who can’t get calcium from other sources, such as dairy products. 

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that sunlight exposure lowers blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke, kidney failure, and other serious health problems.

Various other, more “surface-level,” benefits are often overlooked in the face of hazard warnings. Something that has begun to gain more traction online is the practice of getting sunlight on your face in the morning. 

This has been said to be a favored practice because of its mood improvement, aiding in the reduction of depression symptoms. In addition, it helps regulate sleep patterns. Our circadian rhythm, or our body’s internal clock, naturally follows the rising and setting of the sun. Getting morning sunlight exposure strengthens that rhythm, bringing your body more in tune with itself and the earth. 

Now I know that was a lot to take in, but if there’s ultimately one thing I want you to take from this: humans are like flowers, we bloom when we get some sun. It’s as simple as standing by a window. 

Go photosynthesize!

Strike Out, 

Madi Denizard 

Boca Raton 

Madi Denizard is a content writer for Strike Magazine Boca. In typical Leo fashion, she is a social butterfly and loves self-expression of all kinds. When she’s not writing, you can find her with her nose stuck in a book, mermaiding in the ocean or crocheting her newest masterpiece. You can reach her by email at madison.denizard@gmail.com or on Instagram @mpaigee_