There’s many methods that we use to gently detox our bodies from toxins. This series explores each of them. We've explored oil pulling and taking a detox baths. Next, let's discuss sunbathing.
Why do we detox?
Detoxing helps our liver. Our liver does many things, one of which is to process toxins out of our bodies. In the simplest terms, toxins are anything that are not helpful to the body at that time. Gentle detoxing can have an effect on symptoms which are triggered by inflammation, like allergic reactions, headaches, negative emotions, and exhaustion.
What is sunbathing?
Channel your inner feline and find the sun! Sunbathing is simply the process of safely sitting in the sun and soaking up some rays.
Sunbathing gives us Vitamin D in much larger quantities than we could consume from food. Vitamin D is a detoxifying vitamin that our bodies need, and when the weather is good, sunbathing is the best way for us to stock up.
To sunbathe, go outside and expose as much skin as you can. Depending on the weather, it might be just your face. If it's warm enough, try exposing your arms and taking off your shoes and socks. You can sunbathe anytime, although it's best to avoid sunbathing in the middle of the day when the sun is at its strongest. Find a cozy spot in the sun's rays and just soak in the sun! Try for just two minutes at first and work your way up to thirty minutes, or even better, one hour a day.
Do I need sunscreen when I'm sunbathing?
What you eat has more affect on if you sunburn. I recommend not using commercially available sunscreens. First, they'll actually put more toxins into your body that you're already trying to get rid of. Second, sunscreens block your skin's cells from doing the very processes you are trying to accomplish. You may need to use a natural (I prefer homemade) sunscreen for a long day in the mountains or on a beach, but when you are sunbathing to detox do not use anything on your skin (even coconut oil). Anything with an SPF will block the detox process and prevent the creation of vitamin D.
Eating enough healthy fats, like cod liver oil, will keep you from burning. If you're going to be in the sun for a very long period of time, wear light layers and a hat to keep from getting a sunburn and to help keep yourself cool.
Take a Walk
Spending time in nature while you are sunbathing has additional benefits! Not only will you get great detoxing benefits but you'll also help reduce stress, bring your body back into electrical balance, increase your happy neurotransmitters, improve your immune function and increase your creativity. Being in nature gives us perspective on our healing journeys.
Take a walk while you sunbathe to power up the process. It's even better if you can spend time near natural waters!