The Nurturing Power of Sunshine

Of course, it’s blatantly obvious that the sun is powerful and without it none of us would be alive. However, I would argue that if 10 people were asked what role the sun played in their lives, each individual would provide a different answer. It might perhaps even depend upon the day an individual was asked. Take myself, for example.

If asked on a hot summer day in July while sunbathing in my back yard, I would respond that the sun was providing me with strength by enhancing my self worth through my improved physical appearance. Yes, I am a sun-worshipper, though I’ve learned to show it proper respect, as its power has resulted in extensive skin damage. I therefore now wear a hat when outdoors, in homage to the supreme orb.

If asked while standing on my yoga mat in Tadasana, I would also reply that the sun was providing me with strength, through my regular practice. Individuals who have practiced sun salutations, at any point of the day or night, appreciate this demonstration of respect to the almighty sun. Today, yoga is a popular form of exercise, as an aid in relaxation and awareness for those of us who require frequent reminders to keep us in tune with the larger world we live in. However, it is important to remember that this is a practice of worship whose roots are steeped in thousands of years of tradition, and therefore I happily place my trust in the wise generations of yogis who have preceded me as I step on my mat and prepare to salute the sun.

If asked while filling my reusable bag with produce at the local farmer’s market, I would gesture to the beautiful colors of the fruits and vegetables I was purchasing. Where would we be without the power of the sun beaming down upon the earth that the farmers till with such devotion? Like yogis, farmers have an innate understanding and respect for the ability of sunshine to provide for humans, to care for us.

If asked while walking to my car after a tiring day at work on one of those unexpectedly warm days in early spring, I’d simply close my eyes as an answer. Tilting my head up to the sun, I would smile as I felt it instantly renew my energy with its warmth, filling my heart and soul with peace and hope.

If asked while listening to my iPod, why I’d just turn up the volume and flip through the playlist… Walking on Sunshine, Sunshine on My Shoulders, You Are My Sunshine, Ain’t No Sunshine, The Sunshine Song, Sunshine of My Life, Let the Sun Shine. The list goes on, through generations of lyricists who have all understood the importance and value sunshine has in our collective lives.

Yes, I believe in the power of sunshine and I’d bet my bottom dollar that no matter what today may bring, the sun WILL come out tomorrow.