Here Comes The Sun
Yeah we all shine on, like the moon, and the stars, and the sun.
— John Lennon
Greetings and Happy Father’s Day
Welcome to the newsletter this month, which is dedicated to our favorite star in the sky, the Sun. In eastern medicine traditions and in many cultures around the globe, the Sun represents the masculine energy principle. I feel it is appropriate to dedicate the Sun Newsletter to all of the Father’s and Men in our lives.
The coming of the sun represents the masculine energies of power, strength, truth, growth, abundance, movement, and integrity. We all find that with the greater amounts of sunlight streaming in there is an increase in this dynamic quality in nature and in our personal lives. It is interesting that we often use the term Sun Worship to describe our reverence to the wonderful star that gives life to our planet.
I would like to also show this great respect and admiration to all of the men and fathers that I know. I am very touched to see my brother, brothers in law, friends and patients who are the most amazing fathers. We are a very lucky generation to see the merging of the father that has taken on the traditional father roles of the caretaker and provider with the newer aspects of complete emotional engagement and presence with their families. Thanks to you Fathers, the next generation will be so much stronger and complete having your involvement with your children and communities.
God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle’s flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, He called it … Dad
— Author Unknown
In this issue I have chosen to offer various ways we can have some healthy and safe Sun Worship. You can read a bit about the Significance of the Sun Sign, which is the astrology column we are always so fascinated about. In Healing Benefits Of Sunlight you can read the many health-giving aspects of the Sun. This is especially important since there has been a lot of bad press given to the Sun in recent years due to the increase in skin cancer. Vitamin D is one of the greatest health benefits of the Sun.
In the sections on Healthy Sun Practices and Sunscreens and How to Choose Sunglasses you can learn how to worship the sun safely without damaging your skin and eyes.
The Flower of the Month is Sunflower. You can also read about the amazing nutrients in the Sunflower Seed and find some great Sunflower Seed Recipes.
Traditional Sun Tea is an amazing and simple way to drink in the rays of the sun. I have also included some delicious Summer Iced Tea Recipes.
And we must not forget that one of the healthiest ways to worship the Sun and the Light within is with Yoga Sun Salutations.
God is like the sun. When the sun shines, it shines for everyone.
God is for everyone.
— Ziggy Marley
I truly hope you enjoy this issue and enjoy this season of Sun Worship in a safe and conscious way.
Happy Father’s Day to all of the Wonderful Men in our world. I am always surrounded by the presence of my Father who has passed on. His strength and wisdom guide me and I always feel he is near and proud.
“For what is it to die, but to stand in the sun and to melt into the wind”
— Khalil Gibran
Salutations Dr Francis, Loving your whole dedicated salutation to the Sun in this month’s piece. May I just add one salient factor to that, which seem to be skipped over in so many writing that hon0r the Sun, as well as the many books dedicated to Druid, Egyptian, Mayan & other ancient cultures. They all recognized the Sun to be a living energetic being rather than a handy ball of gas in the sky. Current solar science essentially underlines that belief as it discovers seven distinct levels to our local star and wonders at its Heliosphere, the solar magnetic field embracing and protecting all the planets. Seeing 0ur Sun and other stars as life forms rather than dead balls of gas does change everything. I wrote a book, the only book in print, that takes solar consciousness on board and suspect you would enjoy it. Titled Sun of gOd, and by me, Gregory Sams.
Shine on.