The Sunshine Vitamin: Why Vitamin D Matters More Than You Think

VurVitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin” for a reason—it’s produced when your skin is exposed to sunlight. But in today’s world, fear of sun damage has made many of us avoid it entirely. We slap on SPF first thing in the morning and keep ourselves covered from head to toe, without realising that a little sunshine, in the right way, can be one of the most healing things for our body and mind.

It’s time we shift the narrative. Rather than being scared of the sun, we can learn how to be smart about it—and harness its incredible benefits.

Your Daily Dose of Sunshine

Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health, immune function, mood regulation, and even hormone balance. Low levels have been linked to fatigue, depression, autoimmune issues, and poor calcium absorption.

But here’s the catch: Vitamin D is hard to come by in food. Sunshine remains the most natural and efficient way for our bodies to synthesise it.

The best time to soak up the sun is during the morning or late afternoon when the rays are less intense. Around 10–30 minutes of sun exposure on bare skin (arms, legs, or back) a few times per week is often enough, depending on your skin tone and where you live.

Mood Booster

Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin in the brain—your natural mood stabiliser. Much like moving your body can give you a rush of feel-good hormones, basking in the sun (without overdoing it) can lift your mood, energise your body, and help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

It’s no wonder so many people feel more alive in the warmer months!

Being Smart About Sun Exposure

Instead of living in fear of UV rays, the key is conscious exposure. Start with a small window of time outside without sunscreen to let your body absorb what it needs. After that, if you’ll be out for longer or in peak sun, choose a clean, mineral-based protection that doesn’t mess with your hormones or clog your pores.

We personally love Avocado Zinc—a non-toxic, reef-friendly sunscreen made from zinc oxide that’s safe for the whole family. It gives you the protection you need without the nasties.

Let’s Talk Food Sources

While sunshine is your best bet, a few food sources can help top up your vitamin D levels naturally:

• Egg yolks

• Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel

• Liver

• Cod liver oil

• Mushrooms (especially UV-exposed varieties)

These can be powerful allies, especially in winter months or when sunshine is limited.

Tips for a Healthy Relationship with the Sun

Start Small: If you’re new to conscious sun exposure, begin with 5–10 minutes a day and work your way up.

Expose Skin, Not Sunscreen: Let your bare skin soak in sunlight before reaching for SPF—just enough time to support your health without burning.

Know Your Limits: Everyone’s skin is different. If you’re fair, aim for shorter exposure times. If you’re naturally more melanin-rich, you may need a little more sunshine to synthesise enough vitamin D.

Choose Clean Protection: When it’s time to cover up, opt for mineral-based sunscreens like Avocado Zinc to stay protected without toxic chemicals.

Conclusion

Vitamin D is more than a nutrient—it’s a natural mood lifter, immune booster, and essential piece of your wellness puzzle. Instead of fearing the sun, we can learn to work with it, wisely and intentionally. With a few small changes, you can reconnect with the rhythm of nature, support your body’s needs, and feel better—inside and out.

So next time you see a sunny day? Step outside, take a deep breath, and let your skin soak up a little life. Or, if you are a morning person, head outside and let the sunlight be the first light your eyes experience before turning them on inside or checking your phone.