Sunlight in small doses

A study done at Goldsmiths, University of London, about the most beneficial length of a hug indicates the primo hug is the long one – not just a quick squeeze – but a 5 to 10 second hug. “Rather than the style of embrace, the perfect hug is all about length.” So, I’m considering the SunHugg’s embrace of warm sunshine as opposed to the quick run to the mailbox, the slight walk from your car into work or the store, the light you feel through windows. Those are not long enough embraces. Just as we need undiluted squeezes of affection, we need 15 to 30 minutes – depending on our complexions – of undiluted sunshine. Just as a hug makes us realize we are loved and valued, a SunHugg gives us a boost of vitamin D and increased serotonin. Feel loved every chance you get with SunHugg.

Exposure to sunlight is beneficial in small doses. Living in dark climes, especially in the winter months, causes depression and lack of energy. When we’re able to get some sunlight, our immune system gets a boost because of the increase of vitamin D – helping us to fight off disease more readily. And do you realize we all have an internal clock known as our circadian rhythm? This helps us wake up with the sunlight, function well throughout the day, and prepare to rest after the sun sets. Regular exposure to sunlight enables us to be more productive during the “muscle” of the day. A little sunshine hand you a bouquet of health and productivity every time. Do yourself a favor and embrace it.

I like to think of myself as a middle-aged woman although, no doubt, I’m tipping over into “elderly.” (I still feel like I’m 12, early middle school.) But I have to face the facts and embrace my recently diagnosed osteopenia: low bone density. No pain is involved but I know this is a thinning of the bones, putting me at higher risk for fractures. So, I’m climbing onto my soapbox to inform you that I am making an effort to increase my exposure to sunshine – safely – because the sun enables my body to make vitamin D which is a prime component in helping my body absorb the calcium I receive in my diet. The calcium in milk and other dairy products, dark greens, oranges, etc. is more effectively absorbed when you have soaked up a safe amount of sunshine and your body is producing vitamin D. I can effectively alter the course of my bone-thinning; I can slow it down or stop it by eating wisely and getting sunshine. I live in New England where much of the year is too cold to sit bundled up outside. By using SunHugg, even the coldest sunny days allow me to sit in a cozy, sheltered space without suffering from chill. I highly recommend this course of treatment.