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Vitamin D: The sunshine vitamin.

Updated: May 1

Soak in the Sunshine, Nourish your Soul!

Silhouette of a woman by water in golden light. Text: "Pathways to Wellness Series. Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin. Soak in the sunshine."
Embrace the rejuvenating power of the sun with Vitamin D, the Sunshine Vitamin—soak in the rays and nourish your soul.

WHAT IS VITAMIN D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. Unlike other vitamins, your body can produce Vitamin D naturally when your skin is exposed to sunlight. It also functions more like a hormone, regulating calcium absorption, immune system function, and even mood balance.

There are two main forms:

  • Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) – Found in plant-based sources like mushrooms.

  • Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) – Found in animal-based sources and produced by the skin in response to sunlight.


WHY IS VITAMIN D IMPORTANT?

Vitamin D is essential for overall well-being, impacting everything from bone health to mental clarity. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, low immunity, bone weakness, and even mood imbalances. Here’s how Vitamin D benefits the body holistically:


Physical Health Benefits:

  • Bone Strength: Helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, essential for strong bones and teeth

  • Immune Support: Plays a key role in immune function, helping to protect against illnesses and infections. 

  • Heart Health: Helps regulate blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system. 

  • Muscle Function: Supports muscle strength and helps reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults.


Mental & Emotional Well-being:

  • Mood Booster: Low Vitamin D levels are linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and depression. It helps regulate serotonin, the “happiness” hormone. 

  • Brain Health: May help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and support mental clarity.


Spiritual & Holistic Wellness:

  • Sun Energy & Vitality: Many cultures associate sunlight with life force energy (Prana/Chi), and Vitamin D is nature’s way of converting sunlight into nourishment for the body.

  • Chakra Connection: The Solar Plexus Chakra (associated with personal power and confidence) is linked to sunlight, making Vitamin D essential for inner strength and motivation.


SIGNS OF A VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY.

A lack of Vitamin D can lead to: 

  • Fatigue and low energy 

  • Weak bones and increased risk of fractures 

  • Low mood or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) 

  • Weakened immune system 

  • Poor sleep quality


HOW TO GET ENOUGH VITAMIN D NATURALLY.

Since our bodies synthesize Vitamin D from sunlight, spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to maintain optimal levels. However, lifestyle, weather, and location can limit exposure, making it essential to get Vitamin D from other sources.


Here’s how to get vitamin D naturally ...


Sunlight Exposure

  • Aim for 10-30 minutes of sun exposure daily, depending on skin tone, location, and time of year.

  • The best time for Vitamin D production is midday (11 AM - 3 PM) when the sun is at its peak.

  • If you have darker skin, you may need more exposure as melanin reduces Vitamin D synthesis.


Vitamin D-Rich Foods

  • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)

  • Egg yolks

  • Mushrooms (especially those exposed to UV light)

  • Fortified foods (plant-based milk, orange juice, cereals)


Sunlight Exposure

  • Aim for 10-30 minutes of sun exposure daily, depending on skin tone, location, and time of year.

  • The best time for Vitamin D production is midday (11 AM - 3 PM) when the sun is at its peak.

  • If you have darker skin, you may need more exposure as melanin reduces Vitamin D synthesis.


Vitamin D-Rich Foods

  • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)

  • Egg yolks

  • Mushrooms (especially those exposed to UV light)

  • Fortified foods (plant-based milk, orange juice, cereals)


VITAMIN D AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS.

At Neem and Moon, we believe in balancing body and soul naturally. Vitamin D is not just about physical health—it’s deeply connected to mental clarity, emotional balance, and energy levels.


Holistic wellness practices to complement Vitamin D include: 

  • Spending time in nature for natural grounding 

  • Yoga and breathwork to encourage absorption of vital nutrients 

  • Nourishing your body with whole, Vitamin D-rich foods


Prioritising Vitamin D is an act of self-care. Whether through sunlight, diet, or supplements, ensuring adequate levels supports long-term health, vitality, and emotional well-being. If you suspect a deficiency, consult a healthcare professional to check your levels.

Ocean waves, leaf, and sandstone backgrounds with text promoting a holistic wellness series and social media accounts @neemandmoon

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