Next time you see a patch of sun hitting the floorboards or a bright clearing in the park, don’t turn away. Step into it. Close your eyes. Feel the direct line of energy traveling 93 million miles just to warm your face. It is the most direct connection we have to the universe.

For many, 15 to 20 minutes of direct exposure is enough to reap the biological benefits without over-stressing the skin.

Unlike most nutrients we ingest, Vitamin D is synthesized when UVB rays hit our skin. Direct sunlight is the most efficient way to kickstart this process, supporting bone health and immune function.

Of course, direct sunlight is a force of nature, and with great power comes the need for respect. We’ve all felt the sting of a sunburn or the fatigue of heat exhaustion. The key isn't to avoid the sun, but to curate your relationship with it.