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Chasing the Sun

The new science of sunlight and how it shapes our bodies and minds

The full story of how our relationship with the sun shapes our health, productivity and mood.

A sparkling and illuminating study, one of those rare books that could genuinely improve your life.

Sunday Times

Since the dawn of time, humans have worshipped the sun. And with good reason. Our biology is set up to work in partnership with it. From our sleep cycles to our immune systems and our mental health, access to sunlight is crucial for living a happy and fulfilling life. New research suggests that our sun exposure over a lifetime - even before we were born - may shape our risk of developing a range of different illnesses, from depression to diabetes.

Bursting with cutting-edge science and eye-opening advice, 'Chasing the Sun' explores the extraordinary significance of sunlight, from ancient solstice celebrations to modern sleep labs, and from the unexpected health benefits of sun exposure to what the Amish know about sleep that the rest of us don't.

As more of us move into light-polluted cities, spending our days in dim offices and our evenings watching brightly lit screens, we are in danger of losing something vital: our connection to the star that gave us life. It's a loss that could have far-reaching consequences that we're only just beginning to grasp.

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Date published
Format
Paperback
Extent
256pp
ISBN
9781781258330

About the author

Linda Geddes

Linda Geddes is a science journalist who specialises in biology, medicine and technology. She has worked as both an editor and reporter for New Scientist magazine, and has received numerous awards for her journalism, including the Association of British Science Writers’ award for Best Investigative Journalism. She is also the author of ‘Bumpology: The Myth-Busting Pregnancy Book for Curious Parents-To-Be’.