Now that the ozone layer is compromised and less able to filter out harmful ultraviolet light, we need to be extra careful.
There's no question that excessive exposure to the sun damages the skin all over your body and increases your risk of skin cancer and melanoma.
But should you avoid the sun completely? No--that would be unnatural.
Many people find it pleasurable and relaxing to be in the sun.
It helps regulate hormones and our internal clocks, and it is a source of vitamin D, which is needed for healthy bones and perhaps to prevent breast cancer.
According to Ayurveda, sunbathing improves your circulation and encourages sweating, cleansing the body of toxins.
Vata and kapha types benefit in particular, because of the warming and nurturing qualities of sunlight.
As a vata you benefit in particular, because of the warming and nurturing qualities of the sunlight.
As a kapha you benefit in particular, because of the warming and nurturing qualities of sunlight.
As a pita you need to be careful because the heat of the sun can aggravate your fiery dosha.
Pitta dosha.
As a vata you benefit from the warming and nurturing qualities of the sun, but you most be careful it does not aggravate your fiery pita nature.
As a kapha you benefit from the warming and nurturing qualities of the sun, but you most be careful it does not aggravate your fiery pita nature Light-skinned people of all doshas need to be cautious as well.
Moderation is the key--one half hour a day to fifteen minutes twice a week, depending on your skin color.
And, of course, always wear sunscreen and avoid the midday sun.
Moon Bathing Bathing in the skin moonlight is another Ayurvedic tradition.
It is said that the pale, cool light of the moon is cooling and calming to the doshas.
Because of your pitta nature, it is said that you benefit in particular from a moonlight stroll or simply sitting near an open window during the full moon.