Walking on Sunshine and Feeling Happy & Healthy

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Walking on Sunshine and Feeling Happy & Healthy

Kathryn Gardner • August 24, 2022

Walking on Sunshine and Feeling Happy & Healthy

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Living in Chicago, IL, most of my life, I looked forward to a day that was full of sunshine and a bright blue sky. Some days were cloudy or partly cloudy. Other days it rained and it was overcast. In the winter, there were full weeks without sunshine. I saw a change in myself on those sunny days - I was more active, more productive and happier.

So, it isn’t much of a surprise since our move to the Sunshine State ~ Florida, that we have been more active, productive and happier EACH day! Truly, I cannot believe there is a place where you wake up to a gorgeous sunrise every single day. It got me thinking, I feel so good, how much does the sun have to do with that? As a Therapist and Certified Health Coach, I work with moms every day on goals to feel motivated, improve mood and make healthy choices. Let’s start with something simple, increase your time in the sunshine each day and you’ll feel happy and healthy. I want to share some nerdy facts about sunshine, vitamin D, increasing serotonin and some quick, easy ways you can be in that amazing sunshine during your busy mom day!

I had named my first blog Morning Jumpstart for Moms. I wanted to provide all kinds of tips to moms about starting the day with the best health and mindset to have a great day with your family. I still believe that the morning vibe sets the tone for the entire day. So, even if there are storms here most afternoons, I know we start anew the next sunny morning!

Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning,
for I am trusting you.
Show me where to walk,
for I give myself to you.
Psalm 143:8

Find Your Tranquility in the Sunshine

As I continue to find my Tranquility - my state of living that is full of joy, peace and love - I want to really take in all of the benefits of the sunshine, whether that is for the morning or all day! I want you to feel healthier and happier, as well.

The Sun Never Goes Away

I love the realization that even when we cannot see the sun, it is still there. Have you ever flown in an airplane above the clouds?There is the sun, bright and warm. Even when the sun is masked by the clouds, it is still shining above and it is benefiting the plants, animals and humans. Moms are like the sun, our impact is not always appreciated but we are true and strong, no matter the circumstances.

The sun is healing and rejuvenating.

The sun is warm and comforting.

The sun is bright and lights the way.

Walking around my family room, the sun rays come in from each window as the sun crosses over the house during the day. I love the brightness and warmth that it provides. I do feel happier!

Vitamin D from the Sun

I’m healthier too! I know that sunshine has many health benefits, especially Vitamin D. According to the GrassrootsHealth Nutrients Research Institute in California (a leading team of physicians studying and sharing the need for appropriate levels of Vitamin D), vitamin D deficiencies actually begin in utero. Their years of research show the need for all individuals to be correctly tested for their level of Vitamin D and assessed for their need for supplements, if you cannot get adequate sunlight. In their article, Harness the Power of the Sun, they review how sunshine is good for you, understanding your skin type when you’re out in the sun, UV strengths, and decreased disease levels when you get adequate sunlight.

Dr. Bill Sears reminds us ~ “It is also important to note that the amount of direct, unprotected sun exposure needed to produce adequate amounts of vitamin D usually happens within minutes, long before the skin begins to turn pink. So remember to protect your skin when you’re out in the sun!”

Check out the amazing library of books by Dr. Sears and his family of practitioners about health and wellness! T5 Wellness Plan on Amazon

I want to have sustained energy levels, decreased brain fog and improved motivation during the day. All of these benefits are possible with more sunlight!

Serotonin Helps Us in Many Ways

Whether your forecast is sunny today or not, there are so many health benefits. According to Sarah Warren at the Somatic Movement Center, serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood, social behavior, learning, cognition, memory, cardiovascular function, sensorimotor function, pain sensation, appetite, bowel motility, bladder control, sleep, and sexual desire. Serotonin deficiencies include symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, disrupted sleep cycles, irritability, PMS, fatigue and headaches. All of these are common in women ages 30 - 50. The more bright sunlight we’re exposed to, the more serotonin we produce. Scientists have found that our skin produces serotonin when exposed to sunlight as well.

3 Ways to Add Happiness Through Sunshine Today

Open the Shades

Whether it is bright and sunny or cloudy, open the shades in the house and let the light come in. Walk through each room and pull open the shades. While in the car, roll down the window and feel the warmth on your face.

Go for a Morning Walk

Each morning, take a 10 minute walk. I love the quiet of the morning, it helps me to think and set my day. Sit on a park bench and close your eyes as you feel the warmth of the sun on your face. Enjoy the sunshine starting your day!

Sarah Warren states, timing is important: Being exposed to natural light in the morning—without sunglasses—advances our circadian clock, stimulating melatonin production earlier in the evening and making it easier to fall asleep at night.

Sit Outside and Grab a Snack

As you enjoy a bowl of fruit between breakfast and lunch, sit outside to enjoy it. Whether you are at work or at home, take a break in the sunshine. This is a great way to step away and reset while getting your serotonin levels to increase and set you up for a great night’s sleep!

So, let’s go, I’m walking on sunshine and don’t it feel good!?! : )

Upcoming book in 2022 by Kathryn Gardner ~ Find Tranquility on Your Family Trip: Rest, Recharge and Connect on Your Family Trip. Plus 100 Christian Family Travel Activities

So glad you are on this journey with me to go from stressed to refreshed! Find your tranquility today!

Be well and God bless,

Coach Kathy

Kathryn Gardner, mom of 2, police wife, and Therapist specializing in the wellness of moms & Certified Health Coach moved with her family to Tampa, FL to be near the ocean and explore the health benefits of nature. Her passion is helping stressed moms find tranquility! Check out TranquilityMoms.com for the latest blog post and YouTube video. She posts encouraging messages on Instagram and Facebook.