In recent times getting soaking up some rays has got a bad rap, and I’m pretty sure that most of us know the risks of too much sun exposure… but… here’s the thing: Some sun IS good for you! Really GOOD for you! And REALLY, REALLY good at curbing stress!

The healing power of the sun is immense; it radiates and provides nourishment, as well as being a major detoxification facilitator in the body.

So, for this Weekend Self-Care Friday your mission, should you choose to accept it is to be sure to spend some time outdoors in natural sunlight to help optimize, and boost your body’s production of vitamin D levels, speed up your metabolism, balance your hormones and mood, as well as other health benefits.

Daytime sunlight exposure can also help you sleep better at night. It also is helps prevent all types of cancer, lowers blood pressure, helps strengthen the immune system AND, the part which is music to our ears in this community- it helps boost serotonin levels in the brain (serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is linked to mood- also known as the 'happiness hormone', it makes you calm and alert.)

It’s also the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with your kids and significant other, unplugged from devices, and for them to learn a healthful habit that they’ll carry with them into adulthood. And, in case you’re wondering if I do it- the answer is, ‘absolutely!’

Tips for optimizing your sun exposure:

• Stand, or walk outside for at least 20 minutes a day (depending where you are in the world, and the intensity of the sun), for at least 3 times per week.

• Do NOT wear a sun-screen.

• Try to expose as much of your skin to the sun-rays for maximum exposure.

• This doesn’t mean staying out in the sun all day burning!

Okay, so for those of you who want to spend more time outside this weekend, I’ve got your back! Here’s the down low on sun safety tips that my daughter, Isabelle Mckenzie wrote for National Don’t Fry Day- yeah that’s a thing!

Here’s what she covered:

• How to Use The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap, and Wrap’ Cancer Prevention Motto

• When to Use Sunscreen

• How Much Sun Is Too Much Sun?

• How To Know If The Sun Is Creating Vitamin D

• Choosing Organic and Natural Sunscreens

• What Sunscreen Should I Use?

• Other Smart Sunblock Methods

• The Best Safe Sunscreens For Summer 2019

• The Best Sunscreen For Lips

Now, go have a blast this weekend, buds—you deserve it!

You can find her great blog post what-is-dont-fry-day-and-how-to-participate

Now, go have a safe blast of sunshine this weekend, buds — you deserve it! 🌞