Holiday Rays

Happy 4th of July to my fellow USA readers! How have you been spending the holiday weekend? I have been soaking in some rays of sunshine and swimming in the pool, which has been so peaceful and relaxing! Every year my 4th of July celebration looks a bit different. I love change, so it is always fun to figure out who I am spending the holiday with and what we are doing to celebrate. Two annual elements that remain constant are dressing up in festive red, white, and blue attire, and watching a fireworks show display. The one firework that looks like a cascading chandelier is my absolute favorite!

My time living in Florida so far has made a world of a difference in my energy, and I truly believe that I have the sun to thank for it. New Hampshire summers are beautiful, but so short-lived before the cold weather and winter months creep up on us. I never learned any winter sports, so being cooped up gave me the winter blues.

I was reading an article linked here: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/benefits-of-sunlight/ that was written by Risa Kerslake and medically reviewed by Marissa Walsh, Pharm. D. It goes into detail about 10 benefits of sunlight for your health, which include:

1. Support better sleep

2. Uplift your mood

3. Increase energy

4. Improve symptoms of mental health conditions

5. Lower blood pressure

6. Lower risk of metabolic syndrome

7. Heal inflammation

8. Prevent cancer

9. Stronger bones

10. Extend life expectancy

I have already noticed improvements in my mood and energy just by being immersed in the sunshine for a month and a half. I make sure to spend a healthy amount of time in the sun, stay hydrated by carrying my Hydro Flask water bottle everywhere I go, and effectively reapplying sunscreen. Abby and Carol introduced me to an app called D Minder, which tracks the UV rays and how long you can safely stay in the sun before needing to put on sunscreen.

Abby, Carol, their dog, Brandi, who is pictured below rocking her American flag bandana, and I are headed to spend time with Carol’s family for a 4th of July BBQ and pool day today. Carol made homemade ice cream and orange creamsicles. We are adding the creamsicles into a festive orange and vanilla beverage, and Abby and I are collaborating and making a layered ice cream sandwich, chocolate pudding, and Oreo dessert. We plan to wrap up our night by watching a fireworks show display on the beach, which I cannot wait for.

Wishing everybody a safe, joyous, and sunshine-filled holiday!

Remember to stay humble and kind, always!

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xo –Jess