Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #6 — Regain Your “Sunny” Disposition

Picture: Counsel #6 — Regain Your “Sunny” Disposition CMH 48.1

Sunshine increases serotonin and decreases anxiety and depression, particularly if combined with exercise. Vitamin D levels may also impact our mental health. In winter with less time between sunrise and sunset, Vitamin D supplements may help reduce depression. If you live in latitudes with limited sunlight, you might benefit from using a light box.^[48] CMH 48.2

The World Health organization recommends at least 5 to 15 minutes of sunlight on your arms, hands and face several times a week.^[49] For longer periods of exposure, avoid skin cancer by using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.^[50] CMH 48.3

“Truly the light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to behold the sun.” Ecclesiastes 11:7 NKJV CMH 48.4

“If you wish to be strong and healthy…. seek the glorious, God-given sunlight, and bask in the smiles of ‘the light and love of the world:’…be out of doors all that you can every day, and especially when the sun shines…. Sunshine is one of the best tonics and beautifiers in the world: therefore, men, women, and children, one and all, should seek it as one of the great natural agencies which help to form the ‘elixir of life.’” Ellen White in The Health Reformer, April 1, 1871, par. 14 CMH 48.5

Reflect: Where do you enjoy basking in the sun? CMH 48.6