Sunsets are romantic, inspiring and Instagram-able, yet most of us only make time for this special experience when we are on vacation. Newsflash - you do not need to be in an exotic place, free of obligations, to enjoy the calming, beautiful, and life-changing moments of a sunset.
The sun rises and sets every single day, no matter where you are. Let me repeat myself: Every. Single. Day. So there is no reason why you cannot take a few minutes to infuse your day with wonder and stop to enjoy it.
“Even as a New Yorker, I remember vividly noticing that despite the city being so big (with 690 skyscrapers), the sunset, something completely intangible, had the power to stop countless of the 8 million plus people, and remind them just how beautiful life is when you choose to see it.”
If that isn’t reason enough, I’ve compiled five more facts on why you should make time to watch the sunset:
It will put you in a better mood. #Goodvibes? Sign me up. Research shows that sunsets have many psychological effects that enhance the long-lasting satisfaction of in life and physical benefits and have been proven to relieve stress. So next time you’re having a rough day, drive to your favorite spot and watch your worries fade away.
It gives you a reason to go outside. They don’t call it magic hour for no reason. Taking just a few minutes out of your day to experience some of the breath-taking moments of a sunset will be worth it - even if you have to go back into the office afterwards. Nature is natural fuel for the soul, and just 10 to 20 minutes of fresh air can make you feel refreshed and centered.
It will inspire you. There is a reason that sunsets have been a constant source of inspiration for poets, writers and romantics alike. The timeless and powerful experience has a transcendent spiritual element that can have a positive, healing, creative and restorative effect when integrated into one’s daily life or weekly life. Let the mystical colors of the sky inspire you to paint your life’s most beautiful picture.
It will make you more grateful for Earth. Beauty enriches life and makes it much more rewarding. It has been proven that watching the sunrise or sunset gives you a better sense of gratitude for the earth. When you are caught up in the natural beauty of the Earth (like a sunset), you rid yourself of any distractions and feel higher levels of satisfaction and gratitude for what's happening in front of you.
It slows down time. Many people will agree that the sunset’s warm colors hold the power to stop just about anyone in their tracks. After you get your Instagram-worthy shot, give your divided attention to the painting that is magically being created right in front of your very eyes. When your attention is fully captivated by the awe-inspiring colors of the sky, you are truly lost in the moment and slows down time. It’s a form of meditation and allows you to clear your mind of all that is going on outside of that instance.
I've noticed that I knowingly - or unknowingly - always make the time to snap a photo of the sunset - whether it's walking to my car, looking out the window of my house, or intentionally driving to an area where I can stop and enjoy it. So I wanted to share some of my treasurable collection with you. I will always be marveled at the mere fact that you will never experience the same sunset twice; each and every one is incredibly special in it's own unique way.
Earth gives us this free gift every single day of our lives. Get out there and accept this bountiful, enchanting present!