JORDAN-WOZNIAK—PEXELS how to build sun tolerance 22 Start slowly. If you have fair skin or are prone to sunburn, it’s important to start slowly when building sun tolerance. Begin by spending a short time in the sun each day, gradually increasing your exposure time over several weeks. Choose the right time. Sun exposure is most intense during the middle of the day, so it’s best to avoid being outside during this time when you’re starting to build sun tolerance. Early morning or late afternoon is a good time to build sun tolerance initially, as the sun is less intense. The UV index can be a useful tool for you to adjust your activities accordingly. Use the D-Minder app. This tool helps you optimise your vitamin D levels by tracking your sun exposure and recommending safe sun exposure times. Based on the app’s recommendations, you can gradually increase your sun exposure over several weeks. SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU • MAY 2023 Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in antioxidants can help protect the skin from sun damage. Foods high in vitamins C, E and beta-carotene can help boost the skin’s ability to withstand sunlight. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help keep the skin hydrated, reducing the risk of sun damage. Drinking water before, during and after sun exposure is important to prevent dehydration. Be aware of medication. Certain medications can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, including some antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and birth control pills. If you’re taking medication, speak to your doctor about whether you need to take extra precautions when spending time in the sun. Check your skin regularly. Even if you’re building sun tolerance, it’s important to check your skin regularly for any signs of damage. Look for redness, changes in moles or other skin lesions and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes. finding balance In the Bible, the creation of the sun is described in the first chapter of Genesis. On the fourth day, God creates the sun, along with the moon and the stars: “God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light on 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.” (Genesis 1:17,18). It seems like we’ve forgotten that God said, “It was good.” It reminds us of God’s love and care for all creation and His power to sustain us. I’m not saying too much sun exposure isn’t harmful or doesn’t create skin damage. What I’m saying is that maybe we’ve unfairly demonised it. The sun isn’t our enemy. It can offer us many life-giving benefits . . . if we let it. So, instead of avoiding the sun entirely, let’s mindfully embrace the light and the benefits it has to offer. Sisi Kong is a Hawaiian-based health educator and speaker who promotes a plant-based life. She enjoys creating recipes, hiking mountains and going to the beach. 1. 2. 3. ; ; 4. ; 5. ; ; ; ; 6. 7. MAY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU 23