Summer is just around the corner, and with the hot months fast approaching people are stocking up on sunscreen to avoid the harmful effects of over exposure to the sun.

And, because of the negative stigma associated with too much fun in the sun, like skin cancer, cataracts and wrinkles, many people are taking the extreme step and avoiding the sun altogether, opting instead to take in the hot summers days indoors.

While we can’t overlook the downside of excessive sun exposure, the amazing benefits of sunlight on our skin cannot be ignored. Below are five radiant reasons why we all could use a little sun in our lives.

1.     It Creates Vitamin D in Our Bodies - The ultraviolet light from the sun helps to convert a form of cholesterol in our bodies to vitamin D.  Vitamin D has many health benefits, including aiding in calcium absorption, which helps build stronger, denser bones and teeth.  This will also help prevent osteoporosis later in life.

2.     It’s Good for Our Skin - Sunlight is good for clearing up skin issues like acne, eczema and psoriasis.  It can also help to control or even cure some skin diseases like dermatitis.

3.     It's Good for Our Immune System.  Sun exposure builds our immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells in our bodies.  It can also reduce asthma flair-ups and help us decrease the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis later in life.

4.     It Makes Us Happy.  The sun’s rays have been known to boost mood.  Sunlight deprivation can cause a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression.  Because sunlight increases the amount of endorphins in our body it tends to leave us feeling good.

5.     It Helps Us to Sleep Better.  Getting in our daily does of sun increases melatonin in our body and enhances sleep.  If you’re getting in adequate sun, chances are, you can say goodbye to insomnia.

For those of you old enough to remember our favorite blended family from the 70’s, take a cue from the Brady’s and go for a walk outside, because the summer’s sun is calling your name.  So, go ahead and make it a Sunshiny Day.

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