The ‘Dark Showering’ Trend: Can Bathing In Darkness Really Improve Mental Health Or Is It Just A Fad?

A new wellness trend is making all the waves online and this time it is not usual, but it is very simple indeed. Known as “Dark Showering,” this is a way of taking a bath by switching off all the lights and is said to help in reducing stress, improve sleep and even boost mental clarity. But is there any science to back this up or is it just another fleeting wellness gimmick? The basic idea of dark showering is rooted in the way in which our brains respond to light. Light exposure affects the production of melatonin, the hormone that is responsible for regulating sleep in our body. By bathing in darkness, you can create an environment that allows a low-stimulation atmosphere, and helps your brain relax, making winding down easy. Some wellness enthusiasts

also argue that dark showers can heighten your other senses, like, touch, smell and sound, which makes the experience even more mindful and quite meditative. Mindfulness, in turn, helps in reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm.

Psychologists also note that the appeal of dark showering may be less rooted in the darkness itself and more in the ritual it creates. A quiet, dimly-lit space allows one to detach from the constant influx of digital stimuli that usually dominate the day to day life. Many mental health counselors believe that the principle of dark showering is similar to sensory deprivation or meditation. One can create a safe environment where they aren’t constantly reacting to external triggers. This ultimately helps in reducing stress levels. However, experts caution that the trend is not a substitute for professional mental health care. Those struggling with anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders should seek guidance from a healthcare professional rather than relying solely on bathing habits.

For those who are curious to try it out, all you have to do is turn off lights in the shower for a few minutes and towards the end of it, turn on dim ambient lighting. Pay attention to your body’s needs and how it responds to this. Many find that even a short, mindful shower in darkness leaves them feeling calmer, more present, and ready for restful sleep.