A 24-Hour Challenge for Your Soul: Watch the Sunrise and Sunset

Gail Hughes
Jun 15
2 min read

In a world that constantly demands your attention, where every moment seems to be filled with deadlines, emails, notifications, and noise, I have a challenge for you. It’s beautifully simple. It costs nothing. But its value? Incomparable.

Here it is:

Within the span of 24 hours, preferably on the same day, watch a sunrise and a sunset.

Yes, that’s it.

Wherever you are in the world, just open your phone or laptop and search for the sunrise and sunset times in your location. That’s your schedule for the day. Two appointments with nature, with stillness, and with yourself.

Here’s How to The Sunrise and Sunset Challenge:

1.⁠ ⁠Make a plan

Check the time of the sunrise and sunset. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before each event so you can settle in. Find a quiet spot such as a hilltop, beach, balcony, or park where you have a clear view of the sky.

2.⁠ ⁠Go alone or with someone who respects silence

This is not about entertainment. It is about being present. Avoid talking, playing music, or checking your phone. Just be there.

3.⁠ ⁠Observe

Watch the colours shift. Feel the temperature change. Listen to the sounds around you. Let your senses take everything in. If you want to pray or meditate, that’s fine too, as long as it doesn’t take away from simply being aware of the moment.

4.⁠ ⁠Let it be what it is

This is not a productivity hack or a way to chase a specific feeling. It is about showing up for yourself with your mind, body, and spirit. Give yourself permission to just experience the moment without needing it to be anything more.

A 24-Hour Challenge for Your Soul: Watch the Sunrise and Sunset

Why This Sunrise and Sunset Challenge Matters

We live in a culture that often glorifies being busy. "I don’t have time" is something we say without even thinking. But in the process, we miss out on so much.

Every day, the sun rises and sets. It is one of the few constants in life. Yet most of us don’t notice. We sleep through the sunrise and miss the sunset because we are caught up in work or distracted by screens.

This challenge invites you to pause. To reconnect with something simple, powerful, and grounding. To remember that even in the middle of your busiest day, there is beauty unfolding all around you.

It is self-care that doesn’t cost a thing. No purchases, no pressure, just presence.

You Might Feel…

Calm
Grateful
Rejuvenated
Inspired
Or perhaps nothing at all

That is perfectly okay. This is not about chasing a particular result. It is about giving yourself a moment of reflection and awareness. You may be surprised by what you discover.