Sunshine is Vital for Good Health: Fun Activities Outdoors

For the busy bee that's on the go all week, there is little time allocated to regular treatments of sunshine. Although too much sun is a danger for melanoma, the body needs sufficient light to make it's own vitamin D. Deficiencies can lead to rickets, Parkinson's Disease, Diabetes type I and II, Altzheimer's, PMS and more.
The amount of time spent in the sun depends on skin color and solar intensity by region. In the U.S., those with very light skin need at least 7 minutes, and for very dark skin, 120 minutes.
www.sunlightandvitamind.com

For the working professional, who in winter may leave the house and return in the dark, extra measures must be taken to ensure a healthy dose of vitamin D. Try taking your lunch to work rather than going to a restaurant. The time saved could be used for an urban hike, once around your skyscraper. Or, perhaps, if there's sunlight when you arrive, you can get off the train or bus one stop early and put in a half mile of stride. A 15 minute walk each day will soon build your life saving time under the rays.

For those with the time, but not a clue what to do, check with your local Home Depot for in-store classes that will teach the novice how to do most anything for your home and garden. Perhaps you'd enjoy a creative tile laying class to show you how to restore a tired-out picnic table into a work of art. Some of Home Depo's classes include how to fertilize and lay sod, how to lay a garden path, planting and raising wildflowers, how to build your own fence and more. These classes are free and you may purchase all your project materials in the store.
www.homeimproverclub.com/project.aspx?page=1

Simple changes at home cost little to nothing and will do you a world of good. Children are natural role models on how to have fun in the sun. But, as we grow older, our thoughts turn to adult conversation and a sedentary lifestyle. A conscious effort will brake that mold and open the door to adult playtime for your health. By installing a basketball hoop in your backyard, either a stationary one or mounted on the garage, this low level of activity is enough to get the endorphins charging and add some spring to your step. Online shopping such as Amazon.com is a great source for some bargain hoops and related equipment.
www.amazon.com

Biking is another great way to get your D and see the world at the same time. For those who don't have a bike, there is a national directory provided by HotFrog that will guide you to your local rental shops. Bike trails are plentiful and even helmets and knee pads can be rented. You may also check your local Parks and Recreation, often posted on your city's webpage, for local low cost programs for children and seniors. Hiking is another great source of energy boosting sunlight exposure. Even in a great metropolis, there are safe and happy trails offered for little to no cost. Gorp has provided a comprehensive national directory to find a trail near you.
www.hotfrog.com/Products/Bike-Rental
www.gorp.away.com/gorp/activity/hiking/hik_guid.htm