The Sun. Centre of our universe. It needs no introduction. Life without it would not be possible and yet sometimes we take it for granted. From anywhere on Earth you see it, day after day. No matter what happens, you can rely on it rising again next morning from the same corner of your view. It brings comfort, stability, life, hope.
Ancient rishis, or enlightened persons from the Hindu tradition, discovered that staring at the sun at sunrise and sunset energises the body and invoke feelings of contentment and happiness. This practice is called Sun Gazing. It is attributed to sunlight activating the pineal gland and releasing two hormones: serotonin and melatonin. The sun also helps our body produce vitamin D which is essential for healthy skin and bones.
To practice Sun gazing:
An alternative to connect with the Sun and activate vitamin D production, is to expose your skin to sunlight around midday. Studies show that even 13 minutes a day may be enough to maintain healthy levels of this vitamin.
“The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers, but for the wide world´s joy." — Henry Ward
A word of caution: staring at the sun directly can have serious consequences and result in blindness, so proceed with caution and inform yourself well before taking this practice on a regular basis.
References & going deeper:
Susan Weis-Bohlen. Ayurveda Beginner’s Guide: Essential Ayurvedic Principles and Practices to Balance and Heal Naturally. Althea Press, 2018.
Ryan Raman. How to Safely Get Vitamin D From Sunlight. Healthline, April 28, 2018.