I’m Gonna Let It Shine

My Sun Filled Life Under Clear Blue Skies

Over the course of my life, I’ve been drawn to places where the sun reigns supreme, and the skies are painted an endless, brilliant blue.

From the desert hues of Las Vegas to the coastal serenity of San Diego and now the invigorating altitudinal rays of Denver and Fort Collins, sunshine has been my constant companion.

These radiant cities have done more than provide picturesque landscapes—they’ve shaped me mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually, unlocking a deeper connection to life and the Tao.

Chinese medicine teaches that sunlight is a vital form of yang energy, the active, outward-moving force that fuels vitality, clarity, and joy. In Taoism, the sun represents the essence of life itself, the cosmic force that sustains all living beings.

Living in sun-soaked cities has allowed me to internalize these principles. Each blue sky day feels like an invitation to step into the natural flow of the universe, to align with its rhythm and harmony. But how exactly has this abundance of sunlight changed me?

The Mental and Emotional Elixir

Living under blue skies has had an undeniable impact on my emotional wellbeing. Science confirms what I’ve experienced firsthand: sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boosts mood and promotes a sense of calm focus.

On particularly radiant days, I’ve felt a surge of creativity, as if the sun’s energy were fueling not just my body but my mind.

From the glittering desert sun of Las Vegas to the golden coastal light in San Diego, I’ve discovered that sunshine fosters emotional resilience. On challenging days, stepping outside under a sunlit sky has provided me with a reset—a moment to reconnect with the world’s beauty and my inner strength.

Chinese medicine aligns with this, suggesting that sunlight nourishes the shen, or spirit, housed in the heart. A bright day can help clear the heart of emotional stagnation, allowing joy and clarity to shine through.

Physical Vitality: The Role of Sunshine in Health

Physically, sunlight has been a powerful ally. Living in sun-filled environments has helped regulate my circadian rhythm, ensuring restful sleep and consistent energy levels.

From the perspective of Chinese medicine, the sun is crucial for balancing the body’s qi (vital energy). Its warmth penetrates the skin, invigorates the meridians, and stimulates blood flow.

Western science echoes these insights. Sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, a hormone essential for bone health, immune function, and inflammation reduction.

Yet I’d argue that the benefits go deeper: regular exposure to sunlight has enhanced my physical endurance, improved my digestion, and bolstered my immune system, reflecting the Taoist principle of harmony between internal and external environments.

Spiritual Awakening Under the Sun

The spiritual effects of living in sunshine-rich cities have been equally profound. In Taoist philosophy, the sun represents enlightenment, a source of radiant clarity that aligns with the Tao’s natural order. Whether hiking the Red Rocks in Nevada, meditating on a San Diego beach, or practicing qigong in Colorado’s crisp morning light, the sun has been a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things.

In the Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu speaks of the Tao as both elusive and ever-present, like the light that illuminates yet does not seek to dominate. My time under the sun has deepened my understanding of this concept. Just as the sun provides energy without demanding recognition, I’ve learned to approach life with a sense of quiet generosity and balance.

Hacks for Cloudier Climates

But what about those who live in places where sunlight is a rare commodity? If you find yourself under gray skies for much of the year, there are ways to harness the benefits of light even when the sun seems elusive.

🌞 Light Therapy Boxes

Invest in a high-quality light therapy box to simulate natural sunlight. These devices can help regulate your circadian rhythm and combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Using one for 20–30 minutes in the morning can uplift your mood and enhance energy levels.

🌞 Chinese Medicine Solutions

In traditional Chinese medicine, warming foods like ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric can help replicate the sun’s warming effects on the body. These foods enhance yang energy, promoting circulation and combating the stagnation often associated with cold, damp climates.

🌞 Color Therapy

Surround yourself with vibrant, sun-inspired hues like yellow and orange. These colors stimulate the mind and energize the body, creating a psychological impression of sunlight even on overcast days.

🌞 Supplementation

If natural sunlight is scarce, vitamin D supplements are non-negotiable. But be mindful: the Tao teaches us to seek balance, so don’t overdo it. Work with a healthcare provider to find the right dosage for your needs.

🌞 Find Your Inner Sun

Taoist practices like qigong and meditation can help you tap into your internal energy reserves. Visualize a radiant sun within you during meditation, letting its warmth and light fill your body. This practice not only nourishes the spirit but also aligns with the Taoist principle of self-sufficiency.

Final Reflections: Living in Harmony with Light

Living in sunshine-rich cities has taught me that light is more than a physical phenomenon—it’s a profound source of mental, emotional, and spiritual nourishment. Whether basking in the shimmering heat of Las Vegas, strolling through San Diego’s sun-drenched streets, or marveling at Colorado’s crisp, high-altitude light, I’ve felt the Tao’s presence in every ray.

But for those in cloudier climes, take heart. The sun, like the Tao, is ever-present—even if it’s behind the clouds. By embracing tools like light therapy, warming nutrition, and mindfulness practices, you can capture its essence and live in harmony with its gifts. After all, as Lao Tzu reminds us, “When you realize nothing is lacking, the whole world belongs to you.”

So, whether under a radiant sky or a blanket of clouds, may you find your own light—and let it shine.

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Diamond Michael Scott — aka The Chocolate Taoist

chocolatetaoist@proton.me