Vitamin D...the Sunshine Vitamin. So crucial for our physical and mental health. But too much of a good thing is also not good! Doctors recommend sunscreens and hats to protect our skin from exposure to sun. Not only that the same sun causes UV damage to our homes as well. Be it indoors or outdoors, sunshine of course brings in warmth and cheer, but prolonged exposure will bring with it damage to us and our surroundings.

So what are the dangerous effects of UV rays and sunlight on us?

• Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke — It is common for people to suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke as a result of excessive sun exposure. Heat-related illnesses may occur when the body's temperature rises due to sun exposure. Many people associate the two with one another, but they are two different conditions. If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion but not heat stroke, move them to a cooler shaded area and give them water to drink. Also, a cool bath or wet cloth can be helpful.
• Skin Cancer — While we're now learning that sunlight may help prevent some cancers, another cancer is unquestionably linked to sun exposure: skin cancer. It’s important to protect your skin if you’re going to be out in the sun for an extended period of time. We’ve all seen the warnings. Wear clothing and wide-brimmed hats to cover up your skin or use sunscreen that has a high SPF.
• Sunburn — We’ve all experienced Sunburn at one time or another. Spent a few minutes too long in the sun and the skin literally starts to burn and peel off. So be sure to invest in good quality sunscreen this summer, and reapply often if you’re spending the day in the sun. And of course seek shade wherever possible.
• Premature Ageing — Though darker skin colours have higher protection against this, sun exposure can also cause visible signs of aging. Wrinkles, a loss of firmness, and age spots or other discolouration are all caused by sun exposure.
• Eye Problems — Just like our skin, our eyes can also sustain damage from the sun. UV radiation causes short term and long term damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancers in the eye. So be sure to never stare directly at the sun and wear UV-protective glasses during prolonged time in the sun.

Besides these measures, it's always best to avoid prolonged sun exposure and avoid venturing outdoors during peak sunshine hours. Use the sun to your own benefit!

The Importance of Garden Shading: Protecting Nature’s Sanctuary

Beauty, food is a wonderful way to connect with nature. Gardens are an irreplaceable part of our existence. They can also help to improve air quality, provide a space for relaxation and exercise, and can also be used for educational and therapeutic purposes. Additionally, gardens can help to support wildlife, and can also be used to conserve and protect native plant species. But gardening and the maintenance of a green space requires a lot of support.

One of the most important aspects of it being shading. Shading provides protection for both plants and gardeners. Here are a few reasons why shading is necessary in a garden:

• Protection from the sun: Strong sunlight can damage or even kill some plants, especially those that are not adapted to full sun. Shading can help to reduce the intensity of the sun's rays and protect delicate plants from sunburn or heat stress.
• Temperature regulation: Shading can also help to keep the garden cooler, which can be especially important during hot summer months. This can make it more comfortable for gardeners to work in the garden, and can also help to prevent heat stress in plants.
• Pest control: Certain insects and pests are attracted to the heat and light of the sun. Shading can provide a barrier that can help to keep these pests out of the garden.
• Water conservation: Shaded areas can retain more moisture than unshaded areas, which can be especially beneficial during dry periods. This can help to reduce the need for irrigation and can also help to prevent soil erosion.
• Aesthetic appeal: Shading can add visual interest to a garden and can also provide a sense of privacy.

Awnopy’s shading solutions will provide many benefits for both plants and gardeners. Whether you're looking to protect delicate plants, keep the garden cooler, or simply add visual interest, shading solution of Awnopy will be an important tool that can help to make your garden more successful.