What’s HELIO Therapy?

From the dawn of civilization, the sun has been a constant companion in the journey of life. Before we understood the science behind it, we recognized the sun's profound impact on health. Ancient civilizations embraced heliotherapy, leveraging sunlight for its myriad benefits. This article delves into the history, science, and modern applications of heliotherapy.

Science of Sunlight

Sunlight is composed of different types of rays, each with its unique impact on the human body. Visible light allows us to see, ultraviolet (UV) light, present in minimal amounts, helps produce vitamin D, and infrared light provides warmth. However, our actions have led to increased UV radiation due to pollution, necessitating a balance between benefiting from and protecting ourselves against the sun.

SMALL History class

• Ancient Greece: Solariums and Hippocrates- In ancient Greece, solariums, or "Helios," were recommended by Hippocrates, the father of medicine. These sunrooms were designed to harness the healing power of the sun, promoting physical and mental well-being.
• Rome: Pliny's Endorsement- In Rome, Pliny the Elder extolled the virtues of sun exposure, calling the sun "the best remedy." Sunbathing was a common practice for maintaining health and treating various ailments.
• Germanic Tribes: Traditional Practices- The old Germanic tribes would carry the sick and feverish to mountain slopes and rooftops, believing that the sun's rays could expedite recovery.
• Egyptian Civilization: The Egyptians worshipped the sun, associating it with prosperity and longevity. They believed in its healing powers, integrating sun exposure into their health rituals.
• Indian Ayurveda: Atapa Snana and Tapa Swedha in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, practices like Atapa snana (sun bath) and Tapa swedha (post-massage sun exposure) were used to promote health and treat diseases. These practices continue to be revered for their therapeutic benefits.

Modern Perspectives on Sun Exposure

• Arnold Rikli and Modern Sunbathing Practices- Arnold Rikli, a pioneer of modern sunbathing, prescribed sun exposure for his patients, emphasizing its health benefits. He advocated for controlled sunbathing to promote physical well-being.
• Herbert H Shelton's Guideline- warned against excessive sun exposure, especially during midday when the sun's rays are strongest. He recommended sunbathing during the early morning hours to avoid adverse effects like weariness, fever, and inflamed skin
• K Lakshman Sharma mentioned in his book “Practical nature cure” that the head and face should be shaded in the beginning until the whole bodily condition becomes attuned to sunlight and heat. So that there is no upset or injury.

FACTORS FOR HELIO HEALING THERAPY

The below mentioned factors needs to taken into account and influences the effectiveness of Helio-therapy.

• According to location- tropical, temperate or equatorial zones
• Time and seasons
• Fritzpatrick skin phototype- way to categorize different skin types based on how they respond to sunlight (light, dark, brown)
• Elevation
• Duration 

Importance of Helio therapy & Vitamin D (THE DON)

• Vitamin D, often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density and calcium homeostasis. It also influences both innate and adaptive immune functions, making it essential for overall health.(Alora et al., 1997)
• Vitamin D and Metabolic Disorders- One of the most widespread health issues in the Indian subcontinent is diabetes, a metabolic disorder. Vitamin D plays a vital role in endocrine functions, helping to regulate insulin levels and reduce the risk of diabetes.(Fatima et al., 2022)

Benefits of Heliotherapy

• Physically, Heliotherapy offers numerous physical health benefits, including improved bone health, enhanced immune function, and better cardiovascular health. It also helps in the management of certain skin conditions.
• Mental Health Benefits- Sunlight exposure has a positive impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It helps regulate mood and promotes a sense of well-being.
• Sunlight and Skin Health- Sunlight can help treat various skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Controlled exposure to UV rays can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Must be practiced with precautions (Vähävihu et al., 2008)
• Sunlight and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the darker months of the year. Sunlight exposure can help regulate mood and alleviate the symptoms of SAD. It involves exposure to bright light to mimic natural sunlight, helping to reset the body's internal clock and improve mood. (Jahan-Mihan et al., 2024)

SYSTEMS OF THE BODY	BENEFITS
Sleep – wake cycle	Sunlight plays a key role in regulating circadian rhythms, which govern our sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to natural light during the day helps maintain a healthy sleep pattern (Woelders et al., 2018)
Cardiovascular system	Sunlight exposure has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. It helps lower blood pressure producing nitric oxide (vasodilators), reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve overall heart function. (Hazell et al., 2023)
Immune system	Sunlight exposure can boost the immune system by stimulating the production of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in immune response. It helps the body fight off infections and reduces the risk of autoimmune diseases. (Martin-Gorgojo & Martin-Moreno, 2024)
Endocrinology and reproductive system	Ovarian development and luteinization are influenced by vitamin D with a favourable correlation seen between 25OH-D and AMH. For PCOS women, supplementation can enhance folliculogenesis, reduce seasonal variations in blood AMH, and increase anti-inflammatory marker’s levels and has effect On the Vit-D supplementation on pregnancy rates, however, there is limited information.(Irani & Merhi, 2014)
Musculoskeletal system	Bone Health: Vitamin D production stimulated by sunlight is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. (Pludowski et al., 2013)

Heliotherapy in Modern Medicine

Heliotherapy is used in modern medicine to treat various conditions, including skin disorders, vitamin D deficiency, and certain mental health issues.  It is also being studied for its potential benefits in other areas.

Scientific approach of Heliotherapy

Numerous studies support the benefits of heliotherapy, highlighting its effectiveness in improving health and well-being. Ongoing research continues to explore its potential applications.(Farhangnia et al., 2024)

Tips for Safe Sun Exposure

• PERFECT TIME for sun exposure is during the early morning and late afternoon when the sun's rays are less intense. This helps minimize the risk of skin damage while still benefiting from sunlight.
• DURATION AND FREQUENCY RECOMMENDATIONS- Moderate sun exposure, such as 15-30 minutes a day, several times a week, is generally recommended. This duration varies based on skin type, location, and time of year also the skin sensitivity. Kindly consult your doctor if you have any skin conditions

Risks of Excessive Sun Exposure

However, excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. It's essential to balance sun exposure with protective measures. Prolong exposure can cause sun heat and in extreme cases sun stroke as well. (Leccia, 2013)

Sun Protection Strategies

• Protective Clothing and Accessories- Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses, can help shield the skin from excessive sun exposure. Seeking shade during peak sun hours is also advisable.
• Keep hydrating with juices or water frequently to avoid dehydration.

Conclusion

• To conclude, Sun exposure is of prime importance for every human which is essential for our overall development physically, mentally, emotionally & intellectually as well.
• This also helps us understand that HUMAN Being is always been and shall be an inclusive part of Nature and not an exclusive species who has the right to exploit nature.
• The inclusiveness shall bring about a state of homeostasis within us.

Dr Gurudatta H K, BNYS, FCRSW, Founder, Anandamaya Wellness Center

Dr Swethini Malaravan, (BNYS), Intern, S-VYASA University