Sunlight

Health Nugget – The Benefits of Sunlight

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“There are but few who realize that, in order to enjoy health and cheerfulness, they must have an abundance of sunlight, pure air, and physical exercise.” My Life Today, 138

We are used to being told that too much sun can age and cause damage to the skin, even lead to skin cancer. Over exposure can also weaken the immune system. But insufficient exposure to sunlight is likely to encourage other forms of cancer, such as colon, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate cancers, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

There are, however, many benefits to getting an adequate amount of sunlight.

God designed sunlight and darkness to release hormones in the brain. Exposure to the bright light of day increases the brain’s release of serotonin, the hormone associated with boosting mood and helping a person to feel calm and focused. The darker light of night triggers the brain to release melatonin, the hormone that helps you sleep.

A lack of serotonin is associated with depression, often seen in seasonal affective disorder (SAD), found particularly when the seasons change and the days become shorter.

Being exposed to bright light as you near time for bed can prevent the release of melatonin and instead keep you awake when you might really want to sleep. This is one reason why it is not good to spend a lot of time gazing at the blue light on your cellphone right before bedtime.

Melatonin also reduces your stress level. Doing something active, like walking outside, can also help reduce stress.

Besides regulating the production of serotonin and melatonin, the sun’s rays cause the skin to create vitamin D. Five to 30 minutes in the sun each day, weather permitting, without sunscreen, is an adequate amount of exposure. Your skin type should be considered when determining how long to stay in the sun.

Vitamin D plays an active role in bone health, helping to prevent diseases such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and arthritis, and helps the body maintain adequate calcium levels, all of which helps to prevent brittle, thin, and misshapen bones.

Since vitamin D also helps to control high blood pressure, the body’s creation of vitamin D when exposed to the sun can help with cardiovascular health. Conversely, insufficient exposure to sunlight, resulting in a deficient production of vitamin D, can be bad news for heart health.

Moderate sunlight exposure can also be of benefit in fighting certain skin disorders, such as fungal infections, psoriasis, acne, and eczema.

(Taken from healthline.com; vanitynoapologies.com; selecthealth.org)

It should be remembered that different places around the world have different climates and temperatures. The climate of some locations, like Hawaii, have minimal fluctuation in their hottest and coolest temperatures. Places completely or in part located north and south of the Arctic and Antarctic Circles can experience both constant sunlight and darkness, sometimes for months at a time. These include Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska, and Russia. Antarctica experiences six months of sunlight followed by six months of darkness.

The Spirit of Prophecy speaks a great deal regarding the eight laws of health, one of which is an adequate exposure to sunlight.

“This is one of nature’s most healing agents. …

“Exercise, and a free and abundant use of the air and sunlight, … would give life and strength to the emaciated.” Healthful Living, 229, 230

“Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power—these are the true remedies.

“The things of nature are God’s blessings, provided to give health to body, mind, and soul. They are given to the well to keep them well and to the sick to make them well. …

“Nature is God’s physician. The pure air, the glad sunshine, the beautiful flowers and trees, the orchards and vineyards, and outdoor exercise amid these surroundings are health giving—the elixir of life.” My Life Today, 135

“No room in the house should be considered furnished and adorned without the cheering, enlivening light and sunshine, which are Heaven’s own free gift to man. …

“If you would have your homes sweet and inviting, make them bright with air and sunshine. … If you have God’s presence, and possess earnest, loving hearts, a humble home, made bright with air and sunlight … will be to your family … a heaven below.” Ibid., 138

[Emphasis supplied.]

Restoring the Temple – Sunlight: Another Perspective

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Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun. Ecclesiastes 11:7.

With all the bad press sunshine has received in recent years, you would think the healthiest of all creatures would be moles, cave-dwelling bats, and coal miners. Indeed, certain cultures have spent an inordinate amount of time seeking a deep tan, that, coupled with other poor health practices, leads to premature aging of the skin and certain cancers.

Life is as dependent on sunlight as it is on water. There are multiple reasons why it is so necessary for life. All warmth on earth comes from the sun’s heat-producing rays, without which all life would quickly freeze and die. The sun is a mega-powerhouse of energy, a portion of which is transferred to energy in the human body. Earth receives ten times more energy from sunlight than from our planet’s entire supply of fossil fuels each year.1 Plants require specific segments of the color spectrum, or they will fail and die. A portion of the same ultraviolet (UV) light that causes tanning and sunburning is also responsible for producing vitamin D in the body. Incidentally, UV light does not produce vitamin D through glass, so sitting in a bright spot in your home will not help you get your daily dose.

UV rays from the sun change a chemical in your skin into an inactive form of vitamin D, which is then converted in the liver and kidneys to an active form of vitamin D.2 You need it, because it is an essential nutrient that helps your body absorb calcium from the food you eat. In this way, the vitamin aids in maintaining healthy bones and muscles. The vitamin is also available through supplementation, but as with other nutrients, vitamin D is best when received from the most natural of sources, the sun.

Sunlight is also an effective bactericide. Ellen White alludes to this when she recommends that even our bedding should be “exposed to the sunlight.” Child Guidance, 124.

This is not an excuse to throw caution to the wind, however. Doctors Dail and Thomas3 recommend a daily sunbath of no more than 30 minutes, which is sufficient for production of vitamin D. Healthy sun exposure takes into account time of day (never during midday), temperature, weather, altitude, time of year and your skin’s sensitivity to being burnt. Use common sense. It is always a good idea to discuss your plans with your doctor, especially if you are taking medications. If you are not accustomed to sun exposure, and particularly if you are light-skinned, it is a good idea to start slowly, as little as three minutes a day, until you are able to increase to the thirty minute maximum. Always keep the above factors in mind and keep your eyes closed during the sunbath.

In her writings, Ellen White repeatedly reinforces the necessity of sunlight as part of our God-given plan of health. She wrote a pledge, shown here only in part, that includes this valuable healing gift. “I must eat those things which will be for my very best good physically, and I must take special care to have my clothing such as will conduce to a healthful circulation of the blood. I must not deprive myself of exercise and air. I must get all the sunlight that it is possible for me to obtain. I must have wisdom to be a faithful guardian of my body. . . . And when I violate the laws God has established in my being, I am to repent and reform, and place myself in the most favorable condition under the doctors God has provided—pure air, pure water, and the healing, precious sunlight.” Ibid., 367. [Emphasis supplied.] Would it not be beneficial if we were to say this pledge to ourselves regularly?

The messenger tells us that sunlight is also an essential part of raising healthy children. “The little children should come especially close to nature. Instead of putting fashion’s shackles upon them, let them be free like the lambs, to play in the sweet, fresh sunlight. Point them to shrubs and flowers, the lowly grass and the lofty trees, and let them become familiar with their beautiful, varied, and delicate forms. Teach them to see the wisdom and love of God in His created works; and as their hearts swell with joy and grateful love, let them join the birds in their songs of praise.” Ibid., 48.

Astronaut John Glenn once said, “I don’t know what you could say about a day in which you have seen four beautiful sunsets.” Not many of us will get to have such an experience in this finite life, but in the meantime, we can enjoy a bit of sunlight every day, knowing that, with a little caution, we are doing good things for our bodies. We need to take advantage of the healing gift of sunlight, until “The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.” Isaiah 60:19.

Food for Life — Nature Is The Place For Mankind

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“May has come, with all her beauties of the sunshine, clothing nature with a glorious dress. Mother earth has laid off her brown mantle, and wears her cheerful robes of green. The trees and shrubs upon the lawn are decorated with their opening buds and flowers of varied tints. The peach and cherry are covered with blossoms of pink and white, and the pure music from a thousand of nature’s happy and cheering songsters, unite to awaken joy and thankfulness in our hearts.

“May is indeed here, to cheer and bless us, Let us, all who can, go out of doors, and be cheerful, happy, and healthy, as we behold the charming beauties of nature. We may look up through the attractive glories of nature, to nature’s glorious God, and, as we read his love to man in nature, we may become cheerful, thankful, pure, and holy.

“The feeble ones should press out into the sunshine as earnestly and naturally as do the shaded plants and vines. The pale and sickly grain-blade that has struggled up out of the earth in the cold of early spring, puts on the natural and healthy deep green after enjoying for a few days the health-and-life-giving rays of the sun. Go out into the light and warmth of the glorious sun, you pale and sickly ones, and share with vegetation its life-giving, healing power. Let what your ears hear of the music of the birds, and what your eyes see of the green grass, and shrubs, and trees, beautified with their fragrant blossoms, and God’s precious flowers of every hue, lift that leaden weight off your spirits, and cheer that sad heart, and smooth that troubled brow.

“Mothers, encourage the children to go out into the air and sunshine. What if they do tan, and exchange the pale, sallow complexion for the healthful brown? Let them have health and happiness, which are the only foundation of real beauty. Lovely May is here. Enjoy her, all you who can, while she is with us.” The Health Reformer, May 1, 1871.

“In the building of houses it is especially important to secure thorough ventilation and plenty of sunlight. Let there be a current of air and an abundance of light in every room in the house. Sleeping rooms should be so arranged as to have a free circulation of air day and night. No room is fit to be occupied as a sleeping room unless it can be thrown open daily to the air and sunshine . . .

“Whoever sleeps in a sunless room, or occupies a bed that has not been thoroughly dried and aired, does so at the risk of health, and often of life.

“In building, many make careful provision for their plants and flowers. The greenhouse or window devoted to their use is warm and sunny; for without warmth, air, and sunshine, plants would not live and flourish. If these conditions are necessary to the life of plants, how much more necessary are they for our own health and that of our families and guests!

“If we would have our homes the abiding place of health and happiness we must place them above the miasma and fog of the lowlands, and give free entrance to heaven’s life-giving agencies. Dispense with heavy curtains, open the windows and the blinds, allow no vines, however beautiful, to shade the windows, and permit no trees to stand so near the house as to shut out the sunshine. The sunlight may fade the drapery and the carpets, and tarnish the picture frames; but it will bring a healthy glow to the cheeks of the children.” The Ministry of Healing, 274, 275.

Millet Burgers

2 Cups cooked Millet

1 large Onion sauteed

¾ Cup Grapenuts

1 Cup Tofu, mashed

½ Cup chopped Walnuts

2 Tbsps. Rice Flour

1 tsp. Garlic Powder

1 Tbsp. Vegex Broth

Cook millet overnight in a small crock-pot (1 cup Millet to 4 cups Water.) Mix all ingredients thoroughly and drop by dipper onto non-stick baking sheet and flatten with a fork. Bake at 350º for 20 to 30 minutes.

 

Food – Benefits of Sunlight

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Not only is sunlight good for our planet, it is good for the creatures God created, good for our environment and it is good also for you and me.

Sunlight can lower our vital signs—our respiratory rate, heart rate and blood pressure. Not only does it increase the oxygen content in the blood, it plays a role in decreasing blood cholesterol and also creates Vitamin D. Sunlight also enhances the immune system which helps us fight diseases of all kinds. The production of many of the body hormones that regulate our bodily functions is dependent upon sunlight. It can lower blood sugar if too high and raise it if too low. Sunlight also strengthens bones, helps lower waste products in the blood, and helps the function of the thyroid, pineal and pituitary glands. It stimulates production of red and white blood cells. It is known to help with arthritis; a speed wound healing, treatment of hyperactive children, and helps some skin disorders.

The benefits of sunlight are increased when combined with fresh air and exercise. For health we need only to have a 15 cm square of the face or extremities exposed for an hour of sunlight a day. The early morning hours are some of the best hours of the day to get sunlight.

Sunlight has received much negative press. This has been unfair because the problem is not exposure to sunlight, but overexposure to sun leading to burning, which is the problem. There are other things in our lifestyle which also contribute to problems relating to the sun. For instance, a diet high in fat, low levels of Vitamins A, C, E, and selenium can lead to sunlight problems. Also exposure to radiation, some drugs, deodorants, soaps and cosmetics can enhance problems along with alcohol consumption.

Some people burn more easily than others and it is important to know if you are more susceptible to burning. People who have blue eyes, blonde or red hair, fair skin, or are diabetic burn more easily. Understand what your burn potential is. Guard against factors that increase your risk to burn and guard yourself from burning. Then enjoy the healthful benefits of the sun.

Food – Sunlight – Blessing or Curse

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Sunlight has gotten a lot of negative press; so much so that you have to wonder, is sunlight good for you. Let us see what the Bible, the ultimate authority, has to say. “And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.” Genesis 1:14–19. God said that the sunlight and the moonlight were good, so let’s see if we can identify what it is about sunlight that is good.

Sunlight provides warmth for our planet and without it there would be no life. The energy from the sun supports chemical actions necessary for all life. It helps promote and regulate the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the environment and also affects the humidity and rain cycles. The sun disinfects and cleanses the environment by destroying bacteria, viruses and molds.

Allowing the sun to shine directly in and around our homes has many practical benefits. “Shade-trees and shrubbery too close and dense around a house are unhealthy; for they prevent a free circulation of air, and prevent the rays of the sun from shining through sufficiently.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 463.

Fresh air and sunlight should be allowed to bathe our homes. It will prevent dampness and decrease bacteria that can cause sickness. The same thing can be said of the inside of our homes. Fresh air and sunshine help prevent dampness and bacteria and are especially important in our sleeping rooms. “Sleeping rooms, especially, should be well ventilated, and the atmosphere made healthful by light and air. Blinds should be left open several hours each day, the curtains put aside, and the room thoroughly aired.” Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 57.

Sunlight is now being used in the process of water purification. Chlorination kills many water-borne diseases, but the chlorine has certain carcinogenic effects. Researchers are now looking at irradiation with ultraviolet rays. Although not 100% effective, most water can be purified if allowed direct exposure to sunlight. The World Health Organization has said that exposing water in transparent bottles could save hundreds of thousands of lives a year in developing countries. This is a nearly cost-free process that will kill illness causing microorganisms in polluted water. The water should be placed horizontally in a transparent bottle, laid on a flat surface and then exposed to direct sunlight for about five hours.

With all of these benefits of sunlight, is it any wonder that God said it was good? “Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun.” Ecclesiastes 11:7.

 

Inspiration – Need of Education in Health Principles

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Education in health principles was never more needed than now. Notwithstanding the wonderful progress in so many lines relating to the comforts and conveniences of life, even to sanitary matters and to the treatment of disease, the decline in physical vigor and power of endurance is alarming. It demands the attention of all who have at heart the well-being of their fellow men.

Our artificial civilization is encouraging evils destructive of sound principles. Custom and fashion are at war with nature. The practices they enjoin, and the indulgences they foster, are steadily lessening both physical and mental strength, and bringing upon the race an intolerable burden. Intemperance and crime, disease and wretchedness, are everywhere.

Many transgress the laws of health through ignorance, and they need instruction. But the greater number know better than they do. They need to be impressed with the importance of making their knowledge a guide of life. The physician has many opportunities both of imparting a knowledge of health principles and of showing the importance of putting them in practice. By right instruction he can do much to correct evils that are working untold harm.

A practice that is laying the foundation of a vast amount of disease and of even more serious evils is the free use of poisonous drugs. When attacked by disease, many will not take the trouble to search out the cause of their illness. Their chief anxiety is to rid themselves of pain and inconvenience. So they resort to patent nostrums, of whose real properties they know little, or they apply to a physician for some remedy to counteract the result of their misdoing, but with no thought of making a change in their unhealthful habits. If immediate benefit is not realized, another medicine is tried, and then another. Thus the evil continues.

People need to be taught that drugs do not cure disease. It is true that they sometimes afford present relief, and the patient appears to recover as the result of their use; this is because nature has sufficient vital force to expel the poison and to correct the conditions that caused the disease. Health is recovered in spite of the drug. But in most cases the drug only changes the form and location of the disease. Often the effect of the poison seems to be overcome for a time, but the results remain in the system and work great harm at some later period.

By the use of poisonous drugs, many bring upon themselves lifelong illness, and many lives are lost that might be saved by the use of natural methods of healing. The poisons contained in many so-called remedies create habits and appetites that mean ruin to both soul and body. Many of the popular nostrums called patent medicines, and even some of the drugs dispensed by physicians, act a part in laying the foundation of the liquor habit, the opium habit, the morphine habit, that are so terrible a curse to society.

The only hope of better things is in the education of the people in right principles. Let physicians teach the people that restorative power is not in drugs, but in nature. Disease is an effort of nature to free the system from conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to re-establish right conditions in the system.

Natural Remedies

Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power—these are the true remedies. Every person should have a knowledge of nature’s remedial agencies and how to apply them. It is essential both to understand the principles involved in the treatment of the sick and to have a practical training that will enable one rightly to use this knowledge.

The use of natural remedies requires an amount of care and effort that many are not willing to give. Nature’s process of healing and upbuilding is gradual, and to the impatient it seems slow. The surrender of hurtful indulgences requires sacrifice. But in the end it will be found that nature, untrammeled, does her work wisely and well. Those who persevere in obedience to her laws will reap the reward in health of body and health of mind.

Too little attention is generally given to the preservation of health. It is far better to prevent disease than to know how to treat it when contracted. It is the duty of every person, for his own sake, and for the sake of humanity, to inform himself in regard to the laws of life and conscientiously to obey them. All need to become acquainted with that most wonderful of all organisms, the human body. They should understand the functions of the various organs and the dependence of one upon another for the healthy action of all. They should study the influence of the mind upon the body, and of the body upon the mind, and the laws by which they are governed.

Training for Life’s Conflict

We cannot be too often reminded that health does not depend on chance. It is a result of obedience to law. This is recognized by the contestants in athletic games and trials of strength. These men make the most careful preparation. They submit to thorough training and strict discipline. Every physical habit is carefully regulated. They know that neglect, excess, or carelessness, which weakens or cripples any organ or function of the body, would ensure defeat.

How much more important is such carefulness to ensure success in the conflict of life. It is not mimic battles in which we are engaged. We are waging a warfare upon which hang eternal results. We have unseen enemies to meet. Evil angels are striving for the dominion of every human being. Whatever injures the health, not only lessens physical vigor, but tends to weaken the mental and moral powers. Indulgence in any unhealthful practice makes it more difficult for one to discriminate between right and wrong, and hence more difficult to resist evil. It increases the danger of failure and defeat.

“They which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize.” I Corinthians 9:24. In the warfare in which we are engaged, all may win who will discipline themselves by obedience to right principles. The practice of these principles in the details of life is too often looked upon as unimportant—a matter too trivial to demand attention. But in view of the issues at stake, nothing with which we have to do is small. Every act casts its weight into the scale that determines life’s victory or defeat. The scripture bids us, “So run, that ye may obtain.” Verse 24.

With our first parents, intemperate desire resulted in the loss of Eden. Temperance in all things has more to do with our restoration to Eden than men realize.

Pointing to the self-denial practiced by the contestants in the ancient Greek games, the apostle Paul writes: “Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” Verses 25–27.

The progress of reform depends upon a clear recognition of fundamental truth. While, on the one hand, danger lurks in a narrow philosophy and a hard, cold orthodoxy, on the other hand there is great danger in a careless liberalism. The foundation of all enduring reform is the law of God. We are to present in clear, distinct lines the need of obeying this law. Its principles must be kept before the people. They are as everlasting and inexorable as God Himself.

One of the most deplorable effects of the original apostasy was the loss of man’s power of self-control. Only as this power is regained can there be real progress.

The body is the only medium through which the mind and the soul are developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of souls directs his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers. His success here means the surrender to evil of the whole being. The tendencies of our physical nature, unless under the dominion of a higher power, will surely work ruin and death.

The body is to be brought into subjection. The higher powers of the being are to rule. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by divine grace, is to bear sway in our lives.

The requirements of God must be brought home to the conscience. Men and women must be awakened to the duty of self-mastery, the need of purity, freedom from every depraving appetite and defiling habit. They need to be impressed with the fact that all their powers of mind and body are the gift of God, and are to be preserved in the best possible condition for His service.

In that ancient ritual which was the gospel in symbol, no blemished offering could be brought to God’s altar. The sacrifice that was to represent Christ must be spotless. The word of God points to this as an illustration of what His children are to be—“a living sacrifice,” “holy and without blemish,” “well-pleasing to God.” Romans 12:1, R.V., margin; Ephesians 5:27.

The Ministry of Healing, 125–130.

Bible Study Guides – Heaven’s Blessings

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February 10, 2013 – February 16, 2013

Key Text

“Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with honour and majesty. Who coverest Thyself with light as with a garment: Who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain.” Psalm 104:1, 2.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 2, 118–124; The Ministry of Healing, 274–276.

Introduction

“Let your judgment be convinced that exercise, sunlight, and air are the blessings which Heaven has provided to make the sick well and to keep in health those who are not sick.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 535.

“The Lord has made every provision so that we may have a rich, abundant, joyful experience. … Life is associated with light, and if we have no light from the Sun of Righteousness, we can have no life in Him. But this light has been provided for every soul, and it is only as we withdraw from the light that darkness comes upon us. Jesus said, ‘He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life’ (John 8:12). In the world about us there can be no life without light. Were the sun to withdraw his shining, all vegetation, all animal life, would have an end. This illustrates the fact that we cannot have spiritual life unless we place ourselves under the beams of the Sun of Righteousness. If we put a flowering plant in a dark room, it will soon wither and die; and so we may have some spiritual life, and yet lose it by dwelling in an atmosphere of doubt and gloom.” Sons and Daughters of God, 281.

“The Christian conflict is a battle and a march, calling for endurance. Difficult work has to be done, and all who enlist as soldiers in Christ’s army with these false ideas of pleasantness and ease, and then experience the trials, it often proves fatal to their Christianity. God does not present the reward to those whose whole life in this world has been one of self-indulgence and pleasure.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 14, 28.

1 ON THE FOURTH DAY

  • What was created on the first day of creation? Genesis 1:3.
  • What was made on the fourth day? Genesis 1:16.
  • How do we know that the light of the sun is necessary for optimum health? Genesis 1:18.

Note: “The sun is a God-given physician.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 20, 25.

“The course we recommend will not deprive you of life or injure you. You will derive benefit from it. You need not be rash or reckless; commence moderately at first to have more air and exercise, and continue your reform until you become useful, a blessing to your families and to all around you. Let your judgment be convinced that exercise, sunlight, and air are the blessings which Heaven has provided to make the sick well and to keep in health those who are not sick. God does not deprive you of these free, Heaven-bestowed blessings, but you have punished yourselves by closing your doors against them. Properly used, these simple yet powerful agents will assist nature to overcome real difficulties, if such exist, and will give healthy tone to the mind and vigor to the body.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 535.

  • Upon whom does God bestow His blessings? Matthew 5:45.

Note: “The One who gave His life that we should not perish is the divine Teacher, and He appeals to every blessing of the natural world, the showers that fall upon the earth, the dew, the glorious sunlight, given alike to thankful and unthankful. The bounties of God’s providence speak to every soul, confirming Christ’s testimony to the supreme goodness of His Father.” The General Conference Bulletin, October 1, 1899.

2 HEALING RAYS

  • How does the Bible describe the light of the sun? Ecclesiastes 11:7. What blessing do we receive from the Sun of Righteousness? Malachi 4:2.

Note: “Blessed and beneficent are the rays of light from the Sun of Righteousness who is now pouring His enlightening, healing beams upon everyone who will open the windows of the soul heavenward.” The Upward Look, 257.

“Christ is the wellspring of life. That which many need is to have a clearer knowledge of Him; they need to be patiently and kindly, yet earnestly, taught how the whole being may be thrown open to the healing agencies of heaven. When the sunlight of God’s love illuminates the darkened chambers of the soul, restless weariness and dissatisfaction will cease, and satisfying joys will give vigor to the mind and health and energy to the body.” The Ministry of Healing, 247.

“By such [useful] employment [suited to his or her strength] and the free use of air and sunlight, many an emaciated invalid might recover health and strength.” Ibid., 246.

  • What blessings does God want to give us by opening our eyes to the light of truth? Acts 26:18; Mark 4:26–28. What benefit do plants and human beings receive from the sun?

Note: “The pale and sickly grain-blade that has struggled up out of the cold of early spring puts out the natural and healthy deep green after enjoying for a few days the health-and-life-giving rays of the sun. Go out into the light and warmth of the glorious sun, … and share with vegetation its life-giving, healing power.” My Life Today, 138.

  • Who and what are our sources of spiritual light? Psalm 27:1; Proverbs 6:23.

3 WARMTH AND BEAUTY

  • What happens when we do not appreciate and walk in the spiritual light? John 12:35; I John 1:5.
  • How can we use sunshine as a healing agent? How are we blessed as the “daystar” arises in our hearts (II Peter 1:19)? John 8:12; 17:13; 16:33.

Note: “Invalids too often deprive themselves of sunlight. This is one of nature’s most healing agents. It is a very simple, therefore not a fashionable remedy, to enjoy the rays of God’s sunlight and beautify our homes with its presence. … Our own folly has led us to deprive ourselves of things that are precious, of blessings which God has provided and which, if properly used, are of inestimable value for the recovery of health. If you would have your homes sweet and inviting, make them bright with air and sunshine. Remove your heavy curtains, open the windows, throw back the blinds, and enjoy the rich sunlight, even if it be at the expense of the colors of your carpets. The precious sunlight may fade your carpets, but it will give a healthful color to the cheeks of your children. If you have God’s presence and possess earnest, loving hearts, a humble home made bright with air and sunlight, and cheerful with the welcome of unselfish hospitality, will be to your family, and to the weary traveler, a heaven below.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 527.

  • If we have accepted Christ, the light of the world, how are we to reflect light upon others? Psalm 42:11; Matthew 5:16.

Note: “God’s people have many lessons to learn. They will have perfect peace if they will keep the mind stayed on Him who is too wise to err and too good to do them harm. They are to catch the reflection of the smile of God, and reflect it to others. They are to see how much sunshine they can bring into the lives of those around them. They are to keep near to Christ, so close that they sit together with Him as His little children, in sweet, sacred unity. They are never to forget that as they receive the affection and love of God, they are under the most solemn obligation to impart it to others. Thus they may exert an influence of rejoicing, which blesses all who come within its reach, irradiating their pathway.” Medical Ministry, 45.

4 WORDS TO THE WISE

  • What lesson should all men and women learn from the effect of the sun upon the grass and the flowers? James 1:10, 11. In what sense is a true Christian compared to a palm tree in the desert? Psalm 92:12; John 6:35; 7:37.

Note: “See the weary traveler toiling over the hot sand of the desert, with no shelter to protect him from the rays of the tropical sun. His water supply fails, and he has nothing with which to slake his burning thirst. His tongue becomes swollen; he staggers like a drunken man. Visions of home and friends pass before his mind as he believes himself ready to perish. Suddenly he sees in the distance, rising out of the dreary sandy waste, a palm tree, green and flourishing. Hope quickens his pulses; he presses on, knowing that that which gives vigor and freshness to the palm tree will cool his fevered blood and give him renewed life.

“As is the palm tree in the desert—a guide and consolation to the fainting traveler—so the Christian is to be in the world. He is to guide weary souls, full of unrest, and ready to perish in the desert of sin, to the living water. He is to point his fellow men to Him who gives to all the invitation, ‘If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink’ (John 7:37).” In Heavenly Places, 240.

  • What kind of spiritual clothing do we need in order to cross the “deserts” of this world? Revelation 3:18; 19:8; Zechariah 3:3, 4.

Note: “The people must not be left to stumble their way along in darkness, not knowing what is before them, and unprepared for the great issues that are coming. There is a work to be done for this time in fitting a people to stand in the day of trouble, and all must act their part in this work. They must be clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and be so fortified by the truth that the delusions of Satan shall not be accepted by them as genuine manifestations of the power of God.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 389.

  • For what purpose has God placed us in this world? Philippians 2:15, 16; I Peter 2:9.

5 FREE TO ALL

  • What assurance makes life in this world worth living? Psalm 27:1; Romans 8:31.

Note: “I [Ellen White] hope that you will keep under the direct rays of the Sun of Righteousness, that the bright beams from the face of Jesus Christ may shine with brightness upon your heart, and that you may reflect their bright rays to others.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 710.

  • What is the most precious heavenly gift placed within our reach, and on what condition is it offered to us? Isaiah 55:1, 7; Luke 14:33.

Note: “Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot grasp it, power cannot command it; but to all who will accept it, God’s glorious grace is freely given. But men may feel their need, and, renouncing all self-dependence, accept salvation as a gift. Those who enter heaven will not scale its walls by their own righteousness, nor will its gates be opened to them for costly offerings of gold or silver, but they will gain an entrance to the many mansions of the Father’s house through the merits of the cross of Christ.” God’s Amazing Grace, 179.

  • What kind of sunshine should we have in our home? Ephesians 4:32.

Note: “Home should be a place where cheerfulness, courtesy, and love abide; and where these graces dwell, there will abide happiness and peace. Troubles may invade, but these are the lot of humanity. Let patience, gratitude, and love keep sunshine in the heart, though the day may be ever so cloudy. In such homes angels of God abide.” The Ministry of Healing, 393.

PERSONAL REVIEW

1 Why does God give all people sunshine?

2 Sunshine kills bacteria. What sin will the light from the Son of God remove from our life?

3 Am I walking in all the light that has been revealed to me from God?

4 Can I get too much from the Son of light?

5 Have I really received the gift of Christ, and am I truly thankful?

Great Light Shines

“It is not for lack of knowledge that God’s people are now perishing. … Light, precious light, shines upon God’s people; but it will not save them unless they consent to be saved by it, fully live up to it, and transmit it to others in darkness. God calls upon His people to act. It is an individual work of confessing and forsaking sins and returning unto the Lord that is needed. One cannot do this work for another. Religious knowledge has accumulated, and this has increased corresponding obligations. Great light has been shining upon the church, and by it they are condemned because they refuse to walk in it. If they were blind they would be without sin. But they have seen light and have heard much truth, yet are not wise and holy. Many have for years made no advancement in knowledge and true holiness. They are spiritual dwarfs. Instead of going forward to perfection, they are going back to the darkness and bondage of Egypt. Their minds are not exercised unto godliness and true holiness.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 123, 124.

Heaven’s Interest in Our Welfare

“How strongly and brightly shines the mercy and lovingkindness of God in His dealings toward His heritage. … All heaven has the deepest interest in our welfare, that Satan shall not control us and conform us to his character. ‘For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall’ (Malachi 4:1, 2).” This Day with God, 123.

© 2007 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Health – Sunlight and Infectious Disease

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It was not until the mid 1800s that, through the work of Louis Pasteur, Joseph Lister, and Robert Koch, “germs” were revealed to be a cause of contagious and infectious disease. Out of this knowledge gained from Pasteur and his peers has grown an increasing understanding of man and his relationship to germs. It is now believed that disease can only occur when one fails to maintain the delicate balance of power between one’s body and the organisms that produce disease. This is undoubtedly so, for we find people who are carrying with themselves the germs capable of causing an infection, or a “strep” infection, tuberculosis, or influenza, and yet these people are apparently free of disease. Their bodies are strong enough to keep these organisms from growing and developing. This balance, or lack of it, can be seen when members of the same family either resist or succumb to some “bug.”

Understanding of the Sun’s Effect upon Infection

Along with increasing scientific knowledge about the germ and its relation to disease, came the scientific understanding of the sun’s effect on disease.

It was in 1877 that Arthur Downes and Thomas P. Blunt accidentally found that light could kill bacteria. Observing uncolored tubes of brown sugar water, which they had placed on a window sill, they found that the tubes in the shade had become cloudy, indicating bacterial growth. Those tubes exposed to the light had remained clear, indicating no bacterial growth. …

The modern era of sun therapy began with the knowledge that pathogenic bacteria could be killed by exposure to sunlight. Niels Finsen dramatically opened the era by successfully using sunlight therapy in the treatment of tuberculosis of the skin, thereby winning the Nobel Prize in 1903. Stimulated by Finsen, Bernard and Auguste Rollier began treating other forms of tuberculosis by 1904. By the 1920’s and 1930’s, sunbathing for bone tuberculosis and other forms of tuberculosis was a very common treatment. …

While there was an increasing recognition of the efficiency of sunlight therapy for certain types of tuberculosis, the same therapy was also found to be dramatically effective in the treatment of streptococcal infections. In 1929, Ude introduced sunbathing in America for the treatment of erysipelas (a streptococcal infection of the skin). This had been a disease with a mortality rate of 10%, and the use of ultraviolet light for the treatment of this disease dramatically reduced the mortality. In 1929, the improved condition of the King of England, after a course of ultraviolet light treatment was widely publicized.

From the turn of the century into the 1930’s, there continued to be progressive development in the use of ultraviolet light and sunbathing as the most effective treatment for a number of infectious diseases. In 1938, penicillin was discovered and the era of antibiotics and other antimicrobial therapy began. To a large extent, the advent of antibiotics sounded a death knell for the growing interest in sun therapy. Fortunately, a few investigators have kept a trickle of information flowing on the beneficial effect which the sun may have on our health.

About the time that antibiotics were being introduced, a number of researchers independently published reports of the dramatic results seen when a number of patients, having such various infections and diseases as blood poisoning, childbirth infections, and peritonitis, viral pneumonia, mumps, and bronchial asthma, were treated with ultraviolet light therapy to their blood. Miley reported that in eight cases of viral pneumonia, “the toxic symptoms of pneumonia were gone in 24–76 hours following a single treatment. The cough disappeared in three to seven days. X-rays showed the complete clearing of the pneumonia 24–96 hours following a single treatment.” … Heding found that ultraviolet light could also inactivate and destroy cancer-producing viruses.

I have had excellent success in treating fungal infections of the skin. … fungal infections of the feet, including infections of the toes and the area around toenails, also seem to be cured or to go into remission after sunlight therapy. …

In 1935, Deryl Hart was disturbed about the frequency of postoperative infections. As part of an experiment to determine the possible cause of such infections, he exposed Petri dishes to the air of an operating room for one hour during the time that surgery was in progress there. After incubating the Petri dishes, he found 78 colonies of staphilococcus on one plate. He then decided to experiment with the bacteriocidal effect of ultraviolet light. Having suspended a bank of ultraviolet lights from the ceiling of the operating room, he found that all the bacteria within 8 feet of the lights could be killed in 10 minutes, even though the intensity of the lights was reduced to a point where blonde skin at a distance of 5 feet would not react with reddening until after 80 minutes of exposure. Other researchers, after a ten-year trial of Hart’s method, agreed as to the value and importance of his discovery. In one experiment, the barracks of a Naval training center were irradiated with ultraviolet light. The light was found to be capable of destroying enough air-borne organisms to cause a 25% reduction in the incidence of respiratory infections among the recruits. …

Since ultraviolet light has the ability to destroy bacteria in the air, thereby purifying it, and since pure air is necessary for good health, the availability of ultraviolet light seems vitally important. We know that natural sunlight reduces the danger of open-air transmission of disease. When sunlight is not readily available, it would seem wise to utilize some sort of low-level artificial ultraviolet light as part of indoor lighting systems.

Excerpts from Sunlight Could Save Your Life, by Zane R. Kime, 157, 158, 161-169, World Health publications, 1980.

“There are but few who realize that, in order to enjoy health and cheerfulness, they must have an abundance of sunlight, pure air, and physical exercise.” Daughters of God, 175.

Health – Sunlight and Physical Fitness

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Before the time of Christ, men such as Herodotus and Antyllus believed in the beneficial effect of sunlight in promoting physical fitness. They believed that “the sun feeds the muscles.” The Romans made use of the sun in training their gladiators, for they knew that sunlight seemed to strengthen and enlarge the muscles.

There seems to be conclusive evidence that sunlight produces a metabolic effect in the body that is very similar to physical training. Tuberculosis patients being treated by sunbathing have been observed to have well-developed muscles with very little fat, even though they have not exercised for months.

Beneficial effects which are apparently the same as those of an endurance exercise program can be achieved by a series of exposures to sunlight.

Resting heart rate decreases

It has been demonstrated that after a patient has been on a good endurance exercise program for several months, his resting heart rate begins to decrease (1); it has also been demonstrated that a patient’s resting heart rate will decrease and will return to normal much more rapidly following exercise, if he includes sunbathing in his physical program (2).

Respiratory rate decreases

Similarly, a patient’s respiratory rate not only decreases following an endurance exercise program, but it also decreases following sunbathing, and the patient’s breathing is slower, deeper, and seems to be easier (3).

Lactic acid decreases

Less lactic acid accumulates in the blood during exercise following sunbathing (4) (another effect which usually follows a course of physical training).

Cellular oxygen increases

The ability of the lungs to absorb more of the inspired oxygen (and the ability of the muscle cell to utilize more oxygen) comes as the result of endurance exercises continued for at least several weeks. This means that more oxygen is available for delivery to the muscles while exercising, and to the other body organs while at rest. After fitness has been established through a program of endurance exercises, a marked improvement in the level of energy is noticed. This results in a greatly improved, longer performance in work or play and also allows one to endure stress much better. This whole general improvement in one’s physical condition has come about from an improvement in the circulation and its ability to carry life-giving oxygen out into the tissues.

Sunlight seems also to increase the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen and to deliver it to the tissues. A striking increase in the oxygen content of the blood has been shown to follow a single exposure to ultraviolet light. This effect lasts for many days (5). Severe, intractable bronchial asthma patients were able to breathe freely and the color of their skin returned to a normal pink following an ultraviolet light treatment (6). The blue color of a seriously ill patient suffering from peritonitis, paralytic ileus, and bronchial pneumonia, returned to a normal pink following an ultraviolet light treatment (7).

The mechanism whereby sunlight increases the oxygen content of the blood and its utilization in the tissues may not be the same mechanism by which exercise accomplishes this same goal; but one thing becomes very clear at this point: both exercise and sunlight increase the oxygen in the tissues.

Energy and endurance increase

Fatigue is a common complaint today, but contrary to feelings, more rest may not always be the best answer. As stated previously, a good exercise program decreases fatigue and increases the capacity for work. Marked improvements in one’s endurance and working capacity has also been found to follow sunlight treatments (2). The fact that sunlight seems to increase oxygen in the tissues undoubtedly contributes to this effect. Another factor may be that glycogen (stored energy for the body) is increased in the liver and the muscles following sunbathing (8). This would allow for the increased endurance observed.

Muscular strength increases

Sunlight seems, also, to increase the blood supply to the deep internal organs and muscles (9). The skeletal muscles underlying the skin get an increased amount of blood when exposed to the sunlight (10). This is important in helping to develop muscular strength and will also help to prevent sore muscles when a new activity is undertaken. …

Recently a young male patient consulted me about his elevated cholesterol. Being a muscle builder, he was on a high protein diet and had always believed that a high carbohydrate diet would not provide the building blocks his body needed. When he was told that the ideal diet, for lowering the cholesterol, was a diet low in fat and protein and high in complex carbohydrates, he seemed rather shocked. He expressed his fear of not being able to continue on his muscle building program with this new diet. I told him about sunlight and its cholesterol lowering effect, and how it has been known for centuries to have a muscle building effect. The diet, high in complex carbohydrates with legumes and grains, would have all the protein his body could use in a muscle building program. When I saw this patient several months later and checked his cholesterol, it had fallen by over 30%. He looked well, tanned, and happy, and was enthusiastic about the progress he was achieving as his muscles had increased in strength and bulk on the new program. He was particularly pleased with the fact that he had lost subcutaneous fat. …

Blood pressure decreases

Exercise can be of great benefit in lowering the blood pressure. In one study, 23 men who had high blood pressure were given a moderate exercise program. They did 20 minutes of calisthenics and 30 to 35 minutes of jogging twice a week. After six months on this program, they averaged an 8% drop in their blood pressure (12). In another study, 656 men who had high blood pressure were given a more vigorous program of exercise. It was found that these men had an average reduction in their blood pressure of 15% (13).

A study done at Tulane University, on the effect of ultraviolet light on blood pressure, showed that men, who had normal blood pressure, had a slight lowering that lasted one or two days following a single exposure. At the same time, a group, that had high blood pressure, had a marked lowering of the blood pressure, that lasted five or six days (14). …

Single exposures of a large area of the body to ultraviolet light were found to dramatically lower elevated blood pressure (up to a 40 mm Hg drop). …

It would seem that a good exercise program, combined with a sunbathing program, would go a long way towards eliminating hypertension in this country.

The heart’s efficiency increases

A good endurance exercise program will not only lower the pulse rate, but will also increase the efficiency of the heart, allowing it to pump more blood at each beat, and also allowing the heart more time to rest between beats.

Sunbathing can also increase the efficiency of the heart. In one study, the output of blood from the heart was increased by an average of 39% in the group of patients studied. The increased output continued for five or six days following a single ultraviolet light exposure (14).

Physicians use drugs to stimulate the heart, causing it to pump more blood. These drugs could possibly be eliminated in some cases if the patient were to follow an active exercise program out-of-doors in the sunlight.

Blood sugar decreases

Exercise will lower the blood sugar in a diabetic and enable the diabetic to require less insulin or medication (15). Exercise also helps those with hypoglycemia by stabilizing their blood sugars and keeping them from dropping to the point where they experience alarming symptoms.

Exposure to sunlight appears to have an insulin-like effect in that it causes a lowering of the blood sugar. This is minimal in normal individuals, but dramatic in diabetics (8, 16). When the blood sugar drops in diabetics, it is manifested by a reduction of sugar in the urine. Blood sugar is lowered by a process in which some sugar is removed from the blood and is stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen, thus by increasing its glycogen stores, the human body can reduce its blood sugar.

This process can apparently be achieved by the sun’s stimulating enzymatic reactions in the body. Initially, the sunlight stimulates an increase of the enzyme phosphorylase. Phosphorylase decreases the amount of stored glycogen. After a few hours an enzyme called glycogen synthetase starts to increase. This enzyme increases glycogen storage in the tissues while decreasing blood sugar levels. This effect continues and reaches its maximum level in about ten hours (17).

A high level of glycogen means that the body has enough reserves of energy to supply prolonged physical exercise. From this it can be seen that it would be best to take part in strenuous exercise on the day following exposure to the sunlight. A single suberythema dose (before reddening of the skin) of sunlight produces this effect and it may last several days.

Because of this dramatic effect, a diabetic may need to adjust his insulin dose when he is following a sunbathing program. … Because sunlight combined with insulin can have a very powerful hypoglycemic effect, a diabetic must sunbathe with caution. By gradually increasing the exposure to sunlight and decreasing the dose of insulin, one may avoid a hypoglycemic reaction. A diabetic who chooses to sunbathe should always keep in touch with his physician, who can best determine his need for insulin. …

 Tolerance of stress increases

The psychological effects of training and exercise are beginning to find a prominent place in scientific literature. One study of 60 middle-aged men, showed that after an intensive, four-month physical fitness program, most were significantly more emotionally mature, more self-sufficient, and more imaginative. Others have reported an increased ability to tolerate the stresses of daily life, mood elevation, and ability to sleep and relax; and with this change, came the ability to overcome faulty living habits such as alcoholism and/or cigarette smoking (15).

Those who have had experience with the beneficial effects of sunlight, say that it not only improves the general health, but it also stimulates the appetite, gives a feeling of well-being, and enables one to sleep at night. Somehow, exposure to sunlight has a more relaxing effect upon patients than simply lying down and resting (19). …

One very nervous patient of mine had tried everything to calm her nerves: tranquilizers, vitamins, minerals … . Nothing seemed to work. I informed her of the relaxing benefits associated with sunlight and suggested she try sunbathing following moments of emotional trauma. When next I saw her, she was delighted with the wonderfully relaxing effect of the sunbaths, which far surpassed any benefit she had found from other modes of treatment. …

Sunlight seems to have a relaxing and soothing effect on the stomach and intestines. A research report from Russia shows that duodenal ulcers are greatly improved after a course of sunlight treatments and can also be prevented from reoccurring (21).

Sunlight and exercise better than exercise alone

The fear of heart disease may be the major motivating factor in stimulating people to exercise – and for good reason. It has been known for some time that exercise “converts abnormal electrocardiograms to normal ones” (22, 23). And a study of the results of combined sunlight and exercise, showed that a group that was getting the sunlight treatments with exercise, had improved almost twice as much, as shown by their electrocardiograms, as had those who only exercised, even though both groups were on a general health resort treatment program (24). …

There is some evidence in the scientific literature that sunlight can increase the energy level in human cells (28). This could explain some of the increased physical fitness that comes with exposure to sunlight. Certainly sunlight is the source of energy for the entire plant kingdom and man may also derive direct energy from the rays of the sun. …

It should be emphasized that, in order to achieve the training effect associated with exercise, a gradual and consistent exercise program must be maintained over a period of months. To achieve this “training effect” from sunlight, a similar gradual and consistent exposure to sunlight must be maintained. …

How to sunbathe

One should always consult his physician before beginning a sunbathing program. He can best evaluate your particular needs and possible problems.

One’s sensitivity to sunlight is the first deciding factor. … Some can spend hours during the summer out-of-doors and not become sunburn, while others can spend only a few minutes. Many drugs, cosmetics and soaps can so sensitize the skin that burning becomes a real problem. Generally, blonde, and red-haired people need to begin with brief exposures, and will require less total sunlight than do brunettes because the light can pass more readily through lighter skin. Dark-skinned people can spend more time in the sun initially, and then they will need to increase their exposure time, because sunlight does not readily penetrate dark skin. …

As to how much time to sunbathe, it really comes down to a program that varies with individuals. The best way to start is by experimenting, perhaps 2 minutes on each area – front, back, right, and left side – in full summer sun, then gradually increase the exposure on each area by, one minute or longer every day. If you turn slightly pink several hours after the exposure, hold the time steady for several days and then start again increasing the exposure time. It is best, when starting, to keep the time lower than necessary rather than longer and experiencing a burn. Never burn! The circumstances and the situation certainly will dictate how much skin can be exposed while sunbathing. …

The time of day, season of the year, and latitude are all important when considering how much time to sunbathe. Elevation also plays an important part, for sunburning can take place faster at a higher elevation than it can at sea level. The amount of ultraviolet light reflected from the environment can also make a big difference. Snow will reflect about 85% of the ultraviolet, dry sand 17%, and grass 2.5%. Water is a poor reflector of ultraviolet light, contrary to public opinion. …

In most temperate climates, it is possible to sunbathe year around if you get out of the wind with no air movement over your body. On bright, sunny winter days it is a fabulous experience to lie in the warm sun. … Most of the beneficial effects of sunlight can be obtained without turning the skin red, so even in northern areas, winter sunbathing can be helpful. …

During the summer, it is preferable to sunbathe earlier in the day while the air is cooler, because sunbathing can become uncomfortable as well as dangerous during the heat of the day. … If one feels himself becoming too warm, he should move to the shade or take a lukewarm shower. … One should not be afraid of sweating, as the sweating process cools the body and eliminates toxins, and the sweat contains substances that can absorb some of the sun’s burning rays. …

No kind of cream or lotion should be applied to the skin while sunbathing. Clear skin is the best (skin washed with plain water to remove soap films and cosmetics). Fat or oil applied to the skin will stimulate the formation of cancer cells. Most of the suntan creams, butters, and lotions have fat as their base and should not be used. …

If one burns easily, get out of the sun sooner; season yourself by graduated, day by day exposure. Used moderately, sunlight will give the skin a soft, velvety-smooth feel along with a healthy glow.

 

1)     Skinner, J. S., Holloszy, J. O.; and Cureton, T. K.: Effects of a Program of Endurance Exercises on Physical Work, Amer J Cardiol 14:747, 1964.

2)     Lehmann, G., and Szakall, A.: Der Einfluss der Ultraviolettbestrahlung auf den Arbeitsstoffwechsel und die Arbeitsfahigkeit des Menschen, Arbeitsphysiologie 5:278, 1932.

3)     Laurens, H.: The Physiologic Effect of Ultraviolet Radiation, JAMA 11:2385, 1939.

4)     Parade, G. W., Otto, H.: Alkalireserve und Leistung, Z Klin Med 137:7, 1939.

5)     Miley, G.: Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation: Studies in Oxygen Absorption, Amer J Med Sci 197:873, 1939.

6)     Seidel, R. E, et al: Preliminary Report of Results Observed in Eighty Cases of Intractable Bronchial Asthma, Arch Phys Ther 24:533, 1943.

7)     Miley, G.: Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation Therapy in Acute Pyogenic Infections, Amer J Surg 57:493, 1942.

8)     Pincussen, L.: The Effect of Ultraviolet and Visible Rays on Carbohydrate Metabolism, Arch Phys Ther X-ray Radium 18:750, 1937.

9)     Levy, M.: Der Einfulss Ultravioletter Strahlen auf die Inneren Organe der Maus, Strahlentherapie 9:618, 1919.

10)   Bing, H.I.: Effects of Ultraviolet Rays in Depth and Duration, Acta Med Scand 114:217, 1943.

12)   Boyer, J., and Katsch F.: Exercise Therapy in Hypertensive Men, JAMA 21:10, 1970.

13)   Hellerstein, H. K.: “A Primary and Secondary Coronary Prevention Program,” in Raab, W. (ed.): Prevention of Ischemic Heart Disease, Springfield: Charles C. Thomas, 1966.

14)   Johnson, J. R., et al: The Effect of Carbon Arc Radiation on Blood Pressure and Cardiac Output, Amer J Physiol 114:594, 1935.

15)   Cooper, K. H.: Aerobics, New York: Bantam Books, 1968.

16)   Ellinger, F.: The Biologic Fundamentals of Radiation Therapy, New York: Elsevier Publishing Co., Inc., 1941.

17)   Ohkawara, A., et al: Glycogen Metabolism Following Ultraviolet Irradiation, J Invest Derm 59:264, 1972.

19)   Lorincz, A. L.: The Physiological and Pathological Changes in Skin from Sunburn and Suntan, JAMA, 173:1227, 1960.

21)   Okhonko, V. I.: Treatment of Duodenal Ulcer with Cholinolytics and General Ultraviolet Radiation, Vrach Delo 1:61, 1976.

22)   Mikhailov, V. A.: Influence of Graduated Sunlight Baths on Patients with Coronary Atherosclerosis, Sovet Med, 29:76, 1966.

23)   Kidera, G. J.: Exercise Aids in Converting ECG to Normal, JAMA, 204:31, 1968.

24)   Goldman, A. N., et al: Effects of Continuous and Impulse Ultraviolet Radiation Therapy in Clinical Health Resort Treatment of Patients with Hypertension and Chronic Coronary Insufficiency, Vop Kurort Fizioter 36(5):417, 1972.

28)   Kabat, J., et al: Effect of UV-irradiation of Shifts of Energy-rich Phosphate Compounds, Zabl Bakt Hyg I Abt Orig B 162:393, 1976.

Sunlight, Zane R. Kime, M.D., M.S., 33–47, 237–245.