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P.L.O.W. - Celebrate the Sun

FitSugar — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 03:30:00 -0700

In case you hadn't heard, on Wednesday the longest total solar eclipse of this century was visible from India and China. Although those of us in the US and elsewhere didn't get to witness it firsthand, you can't deny that it's a miraculous and rare event.

Even though there won't be a longer eclipse until the year 2132, now is the perfect time to celebrate our glorious sun. So this weekend, get outside for a run and enjoy these songs about our shining star. There are 30 minutes of upbeat songs to run to, and 10 minutes of calmer tunes at the end for a walking cool down.

To hear the playlist read more.

Total Time: 41:43

Did I miss any songs about the sun? Tell me about them in the comment section below.

Sun Poisoning: Even Worse Than Sunburn

FitSugar — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:03:11 -0700

Whether you skipped the sunscreen because you wanted a tan, or you actually wore it but forgot to reapply, now you're left with an awful sunburn. As you take a closer look, you notice parts of your skin appear blistery, and slightly yellowish in color. That's not just a sunburn, it's sun poisoning, and it's even more damaging to your skin. Not only does it cause a painful rash, but symptoms also include fever, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, chills, and headaches. The area may swell and the blisters can open and lead to infection.

Sun poisoning is your skin's reaction to UV rays, and just like an irritating sunburn, the rash usually results in itchy, peeling skin, but eventually goes away on its own within 10 days. That's good to hear, but there's bad news too. To hear it, read more.

The more extreme UV exposure your skin gets, the more your skin is damaged, and the bigger your risk is for developing skin cancer. So you want to prevent sunburns and sun poisoning at all costs. Make sure to avoid long hours in sunlight, especially from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Always slather yourself with broad spectrum sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or higher whenever outside. It must be applied 30 minutes before you head out, and reapplied every two hours. If you're especially sensitive to sun, wear a hat and lightweight clothes to cover your skin, or just enjoy the shade under an umbrella.

Tell me, have you ever suffered from sun poisoning?

Photo by Kelly Sue

UVSunSense Bracelets Prevent Skin Cancer

FitSugar — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 03:30:10 -0700

Most forms of skin cancer are linked to sun exposure, so if you wear sunscreen, it's 100 percent preventable. The problem is, if you put it on before you head outside, it's hard to remember to reapply. So the UVSunSense Wristband wants to help you remember.

This recyclable plastic bracelet monitors UVA and UVB rays. All you do is put on the wristband, and then apply a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher to your skin and also to the bracelet. As your sunscreen loses its effectiveness, the bracelet changes color. When it turns tan, you know to reapply, and when it turns yellow, it's time to get out of the sun. A seven-pack costs $6, which is definitely worth it since it can prevent sunburn and sun damage that can lead to skin cancer. Skin experts want to urge you not to rely on this bracelet, and to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, even if the bracelet hasn't changed color yet.

Anything that encourages people to wear sunscreen is a plus in my book, but tell me, would you wear a UVSunSense bracelet?

Are UVA and UVB Rays Equally Harmful?

FitSugar — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:30:00 -0700

Sunscreen is a must for anyone who spends time outside. Your bottle probably mentions something about UVA and UVB rays. Since you care so much about your health, I thought I'd refresh your mind on the difference between the two.

UVA rays: These are less likely to cause sunburn than UVB rays, but they penetrate your skin more deeply. Watch out because UVA rays can go through windows, lightweight clothing, and even your car windshield. Prolonged exposure cracks and shrinks the collagen and elastin in your skin, which is why UVA rays are responsible for signs of aging including wrinkles, saggy and leathery skin, and suns spots.

UVB rays: These are responsible for tanning your skin, but they also cause sunburn. UVB rays are the main culprit when it comes to skin cancer. These rays also go through windows, and it doesn't matter if it's cloudy - you're still at risk for exposure.

Although both types are responsible for different health risks, they're equally harmful to your skin. So if you're planning on enjoying the day outdoors, lube up with a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays 20 to 30 minutes before heading out. Reapply at least every two hours.

Summer Sun Provokes Suicide?

FitSugar — Tue, 12 May 2009 03:30:00 -0700

You might think that suicide rates are highest in the dark, gloomy days of Winter, but recent studies found that too much Summer sunlight, like in the northern climes of Sweden and Greenland from April to August, can cause suicidal thoughts as well. Extended Summer days make sleeping difficult, disrupting the body's natural circadian rhythm where darkness triggers sleep. Quantity of sleep is connected to mental health, and continual sleep disturbances are linked to an increase in suicidal risk. Scientists found that in areas where the sun never sets for months, suicide rates increased dramatically, leading them to speculate that the imbalance of light and dark affects serotonin levels in the brain, the chemical linked to mood.

So as Summer approaches and the days become longer, be sure to follow your regular sleeping schedule. As you can see from this study, your physical and mental health depend on it.

Source

Roundup: Sunny Day

CasaSugar — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 07:00:00 -0800

After months of a drought, San Francisco is finally getting a pounding of rain. I've had enough of it and all I want is a sunny day! So I thought I'd round up a collection of cheerful, sun-inspired furnishings to brighten my days indoors until the clouds go away. These Crate and Barrel Marimekko Tamara Guest Towels ($5.95) have a wonderful 1960s wood-block-print-inspired pattern, and their sunny yellow color is just what I need for a little warmth in my home. To see more beaming furnishings, read more.

Roundup: Heavenly Bodies

CasaSugar — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:59:45 -0800

Today marks the convergence of two celestial occurrences. The first event is the first solar eclipse of 2009, which will be visible as a full eclipse from the Indian Ocean to western Indonesia. And the second event is the Lunar New Year, which is celebrated throughout China and East Asia with dances, firecrackers, red and gold decorations, and visits to family and friends. To commemorate this unique convergence of two heavenly bodies, I thought I'd gather together some solar- and lunar-inspired home goods that will add some celestial seasoning to your home turf.

To check out my finds, read more.

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What to Pack for Memorial Day Weekend

BellaSugar — Fri, 23 May 2008 09:00:23 -0700

Since Memorial Day weekend pretty much kicks off the summery season of barbecues and beachy fun, it's important to protect your skin from the sun's rays. I know I sound like a broken record, but it's a cause dear to my heart; my dad had to have a pre-cancerous mole removed from his face a few years ago, and if he'd worn sunblock, it may have never developed. And on the beauty end of things, wearing SPF keeps your complexion healthy, too. Since there are so many self-tanners on the market, there really is no excuse not to protect your skin. Here's what I suggest you take with you during your Memorial Day adventures - these are actually the same products in my "sun kit."

A wide-brimmed hat: Essential for keeping the sun out of your eyes, it's also a great fashion statement. This one, from Target, is only $12.99, and it comes in black as well.
A killer pair of shades: The best sunglasses are large and in charge, with lenses that provide shade all around your eyes - above them, below them, and to the sides. I picked up my Nour sunnies for $40 at a sample sale, but you don't have to spend even that much for a good pair. Look for shades labeled UV400, which protect against UVA and UVB rays.
A high-SPF sunblock: SPF 15 is the absolute minimum, but SPF 30 is better. Beyond that, higher numbers mean only slight increases in protection, but if you're going to be outside, you might as well do it carefully. I've been using Neutrogena Ultra-Touch ($7.49) because of its broad-spectrum protection. It doesn't feel heavy, it isn't greasy, and although I could do without the too-strong scent, it's a wise buy. After all, the trick to sun protection is to never over-pay for it.
The little details: Don't forget to protect your lips and hands. Look for a lip balm or gloss with SPF. I always carry Murad Energizing Pomegranate Lip Protector ($16.50) because it moisturizes and adds just a hint of hue while it protects lips. For hands, Palmer's Therapeutic Hand Cream ($4.69) offers SPF 8 - not amazing, but if you're a frequent hand-washer, applying this cream can't hurt.

Tips For Exercising in the Humidity

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 04:00:00 -0700

Some people really enjoy working out in the heat under the summer sun. The weather is inspiring as are the other people outside exercising in the heat with you. There is plenty to look at too.

Warm weather is wonderful, but you've got to be careful when the temperature and humidity levels get too high. Here are some tips when exercising in the humidity:

Check the heat-index level. This is the number that takes into consideration the temperature and the humidity to determine how hot it actually feels outside. Check out the chart below - If you are exercising and the temp is 85°F and rising, and the humidity is 65% or more, you could be in danger of heatstroke.

Stay hydrated. Dehydration caused by excessive sweating can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Drink fluids before, during, and after exercise even if you don't feel thirsty. Make sure to pack a water bottle with you while you're out - I like to fill mine with tons of ice and a little water. I put some cubes in my mouth and in my sports bra, and I make sure to take sips of ice water every 5-10 minutes.

To see the other important tips read more

Avoid direct sunlight. Wear a hat, or workout in shaded areas.
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored, and lightweight clothes.
Exercise at cooler times of the day, early in the morning or late at night.
Go easy. Whether you are running, biking, or hiking, slow down your pace and take intervals of rest and recovery.
Try to use water in your workout routine. Go kayaking, swimming, windsurfing, water skiing, or wakeboarding. You'll be using your muscles and getting your heart pumping, but you won't be staying cool.

Source

Sunscreen Stats

FitSugar — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 10:15:00 -0700

Just to see if you all have been paying attention, I have a few questions about sunscreen for you. It is kind of like a "pop" quiz, but really it is a Fit quiz.

Source

Take the quiz

jes s gasca Nube Armchair - $1,698.00	Moooi - container stool by marcel wanders - $210.00
Emma Gardner - eclipse rugs by emma gardner - $2,400.00	Andy Warhol Setting Suns Rug 5x8 - $299.99
Golden Acres Shade - $78.00	Kartell fl/y - $293.00
Sunny Woods Rug - $68.00	Waterford Evolution "Amethyst and Amber" Lamp - $495.00
Missoni Home - jaid tabletop collection by missoni home - $67.00	Missoni Home - jo bedding collection by missoni home - $76.00
Marimekko Tamara Guest Towels - $5.95

Emma Gardner - eclipse rugs by emma gardner - $2,400.00	Lucca Low Bowl - $10.95
Melissa Moss - Moon Wood Print - $150.00	Sun Ray Mirror - $189.00
Matte Stephens Happy Sun - Print - $22.00	Tech Lighting Bouquet With Moon Wall Sconce - $460.00
Huomenta Table - $1,298.00	Fornasetti - Themes & Variations Pillow #39- Black/White - $115.00
Flensted Mobiles Futura Mobile - $64.00	Nambe - sun photo frame by nambe - $50.00
Hybrid-Home Limited Edition Print Sun Shine - $40.00	Michael Aram "Luna" Bowl Collection - $149.00