Health effects of the summer sun!

Our bodies love the sun, fresh air and increased activity – on these we thrive! Some of the positive well documented health effects of the sun are that it improves the immune system, lowers cholesterol, cleanses the blood and blood vessels, raises the oxygen content of the blood, and eases depression. Clients often report their aches and pains improve in the warmer weather.

In the UK we have experienced many days of sunshine during the past few weeks, and with the lighter, longer days we’re instinctively drawn to get outside into the fresh air and sunshine. The sun has had bad press in recent years and we’re encouraged to cover ourselves with sunscreen as a precaution against sunburn and the possibility of developing skin cancer. Now, however, there is growing evidence of increased health problems due to vitamin D deficiencies. Vitamin D is found in a limited number of foods and mainly created in our bodies through exposure to sunlight. Of course we need to take precautions so as not to get sunburnt or encourage the development of skin cancer, and it’s important to learn how to best protect ourselves – there’s plenty of published information to help you, also information about how to get enough sun exposure to safely generate vitamin D in our bodies.

With the desire to get out in the warm sunshine and be more active with long walks, gardening and taking the opportunity to participate in outside sports for example, all of this increased activity raises the potential for injuries. As a chartered physiotherapist Ann Rambaut can help you recoup from problem injuries, or even help prepare you and avoid them in the first place, so that your body is aligned and not out of kilter before you embark on activities you might not be used to all year round!

If you don’t feel drawn to being quite so active, Ann suggests getting outside for a gentle stroll, or sitting under a tree contemplating the summers day whilst doing some gentle deep breathing, all of which is extremely beneficial. Why not make that a regular habit this summer and see whether it changes some aspect of your life….. you never know what may show up!

Ann Rambaut
Chartered & Registered Physiotherapist
annrambaut.com
aepr291 @gmail.com
01323 411 900
07436 810181