Here in Queensland we are coming into Autumn and glad for the heat to be fading into the lovely cool breezes of fall.  Now is the time when the seasons here most match those in the Northern hemisphere coming to Spring, with cool nights and warm days.  And it’s the time when I start to seek the sun rather than avoid it, as our days shorten and become cooler.  But no matter the season it’s important to be aware of how much sun we are getting, and it’s not just about avoiding it.

For more than 30 years we have been teaching our students the importance of small amounts of sunlight on the body for both general health and good eyesight.  I recently came across an article in Health Smart Magazine which indicates how much ‘natural health’ views are becoming widely acknowledged in the mainstream.

“A few years back, health experts warned us to stay out of the sun in an effort to reduce skin cancer rates. Sunbaking is still out, but we now know that small doses of sunshine are important for our general health. The sun triggers our production of serotonin, a natural antidepressant. Just as importantly, it boosts vitamin D levels, helping to keep osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis (MS), blood clots and even some cancers at bay.

This year scientists from the Australian National University’s Vision Centre reported that sunlight is also important in preventing myopia. Australia’s rate is far lower than other urbanised societies around the world and the ANU’s professor Ian Morgan believes we have our outdoor lifestyles and bright sunny weather to thank. ‘The light intensity experienced outdoors - which can be hundreds of times brighter than indoor light – releases dopamine, known to block the growth of the eyeball. This stops it from taking on the distorted shape found in myopic people.’” Health Smart Magazine, Feb/Mar 2010

So remember to do your Sunning activity as taught in our vision improvement Kits. It will help to improve your mood, overall health and eyesight! But do always remain aware of keeping your sun exposure to a time of day and duration that suits your location, skin type and tolerance.  Never sunburn your skin, and use hats and cotton clothing to protect from overexposure.

Exciting news! The release of Carina’s book – The Practical Guide to Natural Vision Improvement offers a written guide to your eyesight and the causes of visual blur, the most important activities for your situation and clear explanations of what affects your visual system. The information you need to improve your eyesight for the price of a paperback book!

These enjoyable and informative books are currently in transit to our offices and soon will be available to order. We’ll let you know when they are here.

Carina