The Power of Sunsets

Sunset in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico-photo by Jenny Rose

I am a sunset addict. I live for sunsets. I love sunsets. A sunset can be a social time, a quiet time, a fun time, and something I never tire of seeing.

Each sunset is like a snowflake as each one is different. It calms my soul, brings me joy, and closes the day beautifully.

Studies show that the color of the sunsets affects the body by releasing dopamine resulting in calming the body and mind. It is also thought that our appreciation of a sunset is instinctive.

I would agree with all the studies say. I am always entranced watching the changing of the colors and size of the sun as it descends into the horizon. I get excited as it approaches the edge where the sea meets sky and suddenly disappears. A feeling of contentedness follows knowing that we have closed another day.

Having beautiful sunsets in reach each night along the Pacific is a luxury. However, I can appreciate no matter where I am. I have seen beautiful sunsets while driving down country roads amongst miles of flat corn fields stopping along the side of the road to admire the sunset.

Sunset in corn field in December in Indiana, USA. -photo by Jenny Rose

When I am in the city I often go to the rooftop of my building to watch the sunset. The clouds usually bank up against the mountains in the evening sky. The sun filters through rays gold and orange and drops behind the mountain. The air turns cooler and feel success of another sunset captured.

Sunset on rainy day in Mexico City.- photo by Jenny Rose

The power of the sunset is that it can be enjoyed with others or alone, it is calming, brings joy and puts closure to a day. It is for me one of the things that makes me appreciate life and beauty of this world.