Until the end of February 2025, we enjoyed bright blue, clear skies. Since then, a persistent haze has settled over Benitachell and similar areas, lasting through Spring and much of Summer. While not permanent, this extended haze whether from natural moisture, dust, or local factors shifts the balance of sunlight reaching us and influences our health in profound ways.
The Yin — Challenges of the Haze
Reduced UVB Rays: UVB, essential for vitamin D production, can be diminished by 30–70% under haze. Vitamin D supports immunity, bone health, mood, and vitality. Less UVB means many face vitamin D insufficiency during these months.
Persistent UVA Exposure: UVA penetrates haze easily and remains abundant. Though it doesn’t aid vitamin D synthesis, prolonged UVA exposure can cause oxidative stress and skin aging without protection.
Disrupted Circadian Rhythms: The haze lowers sunlight intensity and alters its quality, affecting our internal clocks, sleep patterns, and hormonal balance.
Impact on Nature: Plants receive less UVB, potentially reducing protective compounds and affecting growth. Birds and insects that rely on UV cues for navigation and mating may also be impacted.
Artificial Blue Light at Night: Modern LED streetlamps and screens emit blue light mimicking daytime, disrupting melatonin production and the body’s night-time reset.
The Yang — Nature’s Wisdom and Adaptation
Natural Atmospheric Balance: Haze helps regulate local temperatures, shielding ecosystems from sudden extremes.
Ecosystem Cycles: Deposited dust and sea salts nourish soils and plant life, enriching the environment over time.
Biological Rhythms: Dimmer, hazy days encourage rest and energy conservation—a natural pause aligned with seasonal shifts.
Nature’s Pause Button: Reduced UVB acts as a subtle cue for life to slow down and reflect before clearer, more active phases return.
Reset at Night: Though artificial light disrupts darkness, awareness of this tension empowers us to seek restorative calm indoors.
How to Flow with the Yin and Yang of Prolonged Hazy Skies
Prioritize safe natural light exposure, especially on clearer mornings.
Use physical protection against excess UVA.
Limit artificial blue light in evenings with filters or reduced screen time.
Support your body with nutrient-dense foods and restful routines.
Embrace rest and slower rhythms as part of this natural cycle.
Spend time outdoors when skies clear for mood and circadian balance.
This prolonged haze isn’t a permanent obstacle but a phase in nature’s ongoing rhythm challenging yet inviting us to adapt and deepen our connection to the cycles around us.
By embracing this yin and yang, we reclaim balance, vitality, and harmony beneath shifting skies.
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