sun

In case you hadn't heard, on Wednesday the longest total solar eclipse of this century was visible from India and China. Although those of us in the US and elsewhere didn't get to witness it firsthand, you can't deny that it's a miraculous and rare event.

Even though there won't be a longer eclipse until the year 2132, now is the perfect time to celebrate our glorious sun. So this weekend, get outside for a run and enjoy these songs about our shining star. There are 30 minutes of upbeat songs to run to, and 10 minutes of calmer tunes at the end for a walking cool down.

To hear the playlist read more

Sunscreen is a must for anyone who spends time outside. Your bottle probably mentions something about UVA and UVB rays. Since you care so much about your health, I thought I'd refresh your mind on the difference between the two.

UVA rays: These are less likely to cause sunburn than UVB rays, but they penetrate your skin more deeply. Watch out because UVA rays can go through windows, lightweight clothing, and even your car windshield. Prolonged exposure cracks and shrinks the collagen and elastin in your skin, which is why UVA rays are responsible for signs of aging including wrinkles, saggy and leathery skin, and suns spots.

UVB rays: These are responsible for tanning your skin, but they also cause sunburn. UVB rays are the main culprit when it comes to skin cancer. These rays also go through windows, and it doesn't matter if it's cloudy — you're still at risk for exposure.

Although both types are responsible for different health risks, they're equally harmful to your skin. So if you're planning on enjoying the day outdoors, lube up with a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays 20 to 30 minutes before heading out. Reapply at least every two hours.

You might think that suicide rates are highest in the dark, gloomy days of Winter, but recent studies found that too much Summer sunlight, like in the northern climes of Sweden and Greenland from April to August, can cause suicidal thoughts as well. Extended Summer days make sleeping difficult, disrupting the body's natural circadian rhythm where darkness triggers sleep. Quantity of sleep is connected to mental health, and continual sleep disturbances are linked to an increase in suicidal risk. Scientists found that in areas where the sun never sets for months, suicide rates increased dramatically, leading them to speculate that the imbalance of light and dark affects serotonin levels in the brain, the chemical linked to mood.

So as Summer approaches and the days become longer, be sure to follow your regular sleeping schedule. As you can see from this study, your physical and mental health depend on it.

Source

After months of a drought, San Francisco is finally getting a pounding of rain. I've had enough of it and all I want is a sunny day! So I thought I'd round up a collection of cheerful, sun-inspired furnishings to brighten my days indoors until the clouds go away. These Crate and Barrel Marimekko Tamara Guest Towels ($5.95) have a wonderful 1960s wood-block-print-inspired pattern, and their sunny yellow color is just what I need for a little warmth in my home. To see more beaming furnishings, read more