The sun - a source of light, warmth and joie de vivre. It is not only important for our mental well-being, but also plays a decisive role in our physical health. Nevertheless, sunlight is often portrayed as a “danger”. In this article, you will learn how to go out into the sun healthily and consciously - holistically, in harmony with nature and with the power of naturopathy.
Sunlight is more than just UV radiation. It controls our internal clock, supports hormone balance, promotes blood circulation and has a mood-enhancing effect - it is not for nothing that light therapy is used to treat depression.
A key effect: the body's own vitamin D production.
Vitamin D is not actually a vitamin, but a hormone precursor that our body can produce itself with the help of sunlight. When UVB rays hit the skin, special skin cells convert cholesterol into previtamin D3 - from which the active vitamin D (calcitriol) is then produced in the liver and kidneys.
Important to know:
Vitamin D synthesis is only possible with sufficient sun exposure - ideally between 11 am and 3 pm when the sun is high.
Just 15-30 minutes a day with uncovered skin (arms, legs, face) is often enough - depending on skin type and location.
Sunscreens with a high SPF block UVB radiation almost completely - and therefore also vitamin D production.
Our eye is more than just an organ of sight - it is also an important stimulus for our neuroendocrine system. For example, when sunlight hits the retina, it influences the release of:
Melatonin (sleep hormone),
Serotonin (happiness hormone),
and cortisol (activation hormone)
Wearing sunglasses permanently suppresses this natural rhythm. In addition, the pineal gland needs sunlight to perform its clock function optimally.
👉 Tip: Go out into the sun without sunglasses for a few minutes in the morning or late afternoon. Your eyes will thank you for it - provided you don't look directly at the sun.
Many conventional sunscreens contain chemical UV filters (such as octocrylene or oxybenzone), which can have hormonal effects or be harmful to the environment. Natural alternatives are:
Mineral filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: They reflect the radiation like small mirrors on the skin. Look out for nanoparticle-free products!
Oils with a natural sun protection factor (SPF approx.):
Raspberry seed oil (SPF 25-30)
Carrot oil (SPF 20)
Coconut oil (SPF 7)
Sesame oil (SPF 5)
Shea butter (SPF 3-6)
These oils do not offer complete protection, but are excellent for skin care and as a supplement, especially for already slightly tanned skin or short sunbathing sessions.
One particularly exciting dietary supplement is astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant from the carotenoid group, which is found, for example, in the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis .
Benefits of astaxanthin:
Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV radiation
Protects skin cells from oxidative stress
Can reduce sensitivity to sunburn - a kind of “internal sun protection”
Anti-inflammatory and cell-protective
Supports eye health, cardiovascular function and skin elasticity
For a noticeable effect on skin protection, it is recommended to take 4-8 mg of astaxanthin daily, preferably approx. 2 weeks before and during sun exposure.
Healthy sunbathing doesn't mean getting a tan without protection for hours on end - but rather
➡ consciously going out into the sun ➡ observing your own skin ➡ using natural support from inside and outside ➡ and rediscovering the sun as a friend and source of healing.
With a healthy amount of sunlight, natural skincare and the support of astaxanthin, you can enjoy the sunshine season with vitality, protection and energy.