Confessions of a Human Sunflower

I’ve come to accept something about myself: I’m basically solar-powered. When the sun is shining, I feel lighter, happier and strangely unstoppable. My energy lifts, my outlook brightens, and I suddenly want to do all things like walk, plan, create, and connect. Sunshine is my reset button.

Sunshine = Superpowers

There’s something about a blue-sky day that just makes life feel easier. Even a short walk outside can shift my mood, and suddenly, everything feels a little more possible. It’s not that I need an excuse to be outside, I simply just function better in the sun. My brain works faster, my body moves more freely and my sense of humour even perks up.

When Grey Skies Take Over

Then come the rainy days. String together too many of them and I turn into a very different creature. Think houseplant shoved in a dark corner: droopy, uninspired, a little confused about its purpose. I drink endless cups of herbal tea, watch too much Netflix and tweak my website like every copy and colour change might suddenly turn me into a marketing whiz. Well, someone’s got to believe in me.

Even on those grey days, I’ve learned that heading outside helps, even for just ten minutes. Umbrella optional, gumboots highly recommended. Listening to the rain, feeling the air on my face, or just standing under the gum trees can shake off some of the gloom.

A Little Sunshine Goes a Long Way

I’ve come to believe that we underestimate the power of sunlight on our wellbeing. It isn’t just “nice” — it changes our mood, nudges us to move, and reminds us to breathe a little easier. Sure, rain has its place. The bush thrives on it, the garden loves it, and sometimes it’s a perfect excuse to rest. But too much indoor time can weigh heavily on the mind.

When the sun comes back, you’ll find me outside, turning my face towards it like the human sunflower I am. And I’ll be soaking it up, grateful for the simple, quiet boost that only a sunny day can bring.