May 19 is the time of year National May Ray Day celebrates the bright sunshine, warmer weather with just a slight breeze to cool your skin. 

If your name is Ray or May, this is your chance to use your name as a way to get outdoors and soak up some sun. Afterall, this spring holiday is all about getting out into the sunshine and soak up some rays.

There are so many benefits of being in the sun, especially after a long winter. Our bodies need vitamins and minerals to maintain a healthy balance. Vitamin D is one of those vitamins we need for to maintain a healthy mind and body. Not only does it support bone health, it also lowers blood pressure, prevents disease and promotes strong mental health. There is also evidence healthy levels of Vitamin D in the body help reduce chances of getting cancer.

The sun is a natural resource you can use to help maintain healthy Vitamin D levels. Sun exposure:

• Promotes strong bones.
• Kills unwanted bacteria in your body.
• Reduces cancer risks.
• Reduces high blood pressure.
• Improves sleeping habits.

Excessive sun exposure can also cause serious health problems, especially skin cancer. However, there are a few preventative measures you can take to make your day in the sun enjoyable:

• Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat that covers your shoulders, ears, face and head.
• Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
• Always were sunscreen with at least 15 SPF or higher.
• Use an umbrella to block direct sunlight.

The natural turn of seasons is a beautiful transition. The grass turns green, flowers bloom, baby birds are seen learning to fly and new beginnings are seen everywhere. Springtime is a time to enjoy watching nature come alive.

A RAY OF HISTORY

We can thank comedian Richard Ankli for National May Ray Day. Born the same day, Ankli decided to honor his brother Ray with his own special day by declaring today National May Ray Day. Eventually, the Broadway residence in St. Joseph, Michigan, also known as the Broadway Fun Spot, began celebrating day, too. As a writer and comedian at Broadway Fun Spot (BFS) & Little Butter Publishing Co., Richard may have had the opportunity to self-promote his declaration.

Richard also gets credit for creating another holiday. Once again, Richard set out to honor another birthday on October 25. National Sourest Day was appropriately named after Richards friend, whose last name happened to be Sauer.

Whether or not this is how either day became official, we recommend going outside and enjoy the sunshine.

SOAK UP THE SUN

• Plan a picnic.
• Go for walk.
• Buy a new summer dress.
• Plant some flowers.
• Read in the park.
• Visit a zoo.
• Share you day in the sun using #NationalMayRayDay on social media