Soak in the Golden State Rays

California has been nicknamed the Golden State for various reasons – its gorgeous sunshine being one of them. Lucky for us, there are so many benefits that come with good ole vitamin D, which is produced when we’re exposed to the sun–one of the biggest being the release of serotonin, the happy hormone! However, while the benefits of sunshine are undeniable, it’s also essential to be prepared to prevent the negative effects that the sun can have on our skin and our eyes. In this blog, our Sunshine Retirement communities in California share the benefits of sunshine, as well as how to enjoy it safely.

A Few Benefits of Sunshine

• 1. It promotes better sleep. Research shows that sun exposure can help promote better sleep. It plays a role in regulating your body’s hormones, as well as your sleep patterns, by impacting your melatonin circadian rhythm, which is what triggers sleep. Specifically, exposure to sunshine early in the day can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly at night.
• 2. It increases energy and improves mood. Exposure to sunshine helps your brain release serotonin, a hormone that boosts mood, allows you to feel calm, less anxious, and more focused. In the winter months, where days are shorter, people can tend to feel more down because there is less sunlight. But in the summer, more sunlight means happier seniors! Additionally, serotonin can boost energy levels, making it easier to enjoy all of the activities the summer has to offer.
• 3. It promotes outdoor activity. One of the best ways to enjoy the sunshine is enjoying the outdoors. To reap the benefits of sunshine, you could go for a bike ride, walk a trail, garden, play yard games, have a picnic, and do many other activities, which in turn also promote your physical health. There is truly an outdoor activity for everyone, so experiment with some of your favorites to see what you want to become a consistent part of your routine.

How to Enjoy the Sun Safely

• 1. Wear Sunscreen. To enjoy being in the sun safely, applying sunscreen is key. It’s one of the easiest ways to protect your skin – both its health and appearance. It can prevent sunburn and can limit skin aging from the sun.
• 2. Dress Appropriately. Wearing sun shirts and clothing covering your skin can help protect you from sun damage. Ensure that the materials are lightweight and meant for warm temperatures. Wearing a hat is also a great way to protect your face from too much sun exposure.
• 3. Wear Sunglasses. When enjoying the benefits of the sun, it’s important to remember to keep your eyes protected. Direct sunlight can result in vision blurriness and cataracts. Polarized sunglasses can help protect your eyes; they reduce glare to help you see more clearly while reducing the need for squinting.
• 4. Hydrate. The combination of heat and sunshine can be extremely dehydrating. While it’s always important to stay hydrated, you might want to increase your water intake if you’re planning on enjoying the sunshine. Try to drink around 64-ounces per day, and add an extra glass or two if you spend significant time outdoors or exercising.
• 5. Enjoy in Moderation. While there are many benefits of enjoying the warm rays of the sun that make us want to soak in it all day, it’s best to enjoy the sunshine in moderation. This will help reduce the possibility of negative effects like sunburn and dehydration.

At Sunshine Retirement Living communities in California, we pride ourselves in creating many opportunities for our residents to get outside and enjoy the benefits of the sunshine. Some of the ways we do this are by offering outdoor socials, hosting walking clubs, gardening, and playing games. If you’re looking for a community that provides you with endless ways to get outside, socialize and enjoy the benefits of sunshine, our retirement communities in California might just be the perfect place for you.

Learn more about our Retirement Living Communities in California. Feel free to contact our friendly team today by email or reach out by phone at 541-323-3456.

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