Until now, we knew the relaxing power of a good hot shower after a hard day. But, on the Internet, many people are optimizing this moment with a novelty: that of turning off, or rather dimming, the lights.
There dark shower a dark or bright idea?
As its name suggests, the dark showering is therefore the action of taking a shower (quite classic this one) but in the dark. A way to create a soothing atmosphere, a cocoon in this pivotal moment which erases the traces of the day. Ranging from complete darkness to subdued light – candles, for example – it would actually have many benefits.
For Dr Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, the trend is part of a search for well-being and rituals promoting calm before bed. And it’s not so new: in Japan, nighttime bathing in dimly lit wooden public baths has long been a treasured ritual.
“Taking a shower in the dark or in very dim light is not just a fashion: there is a real physiological benefit in favoring a low-light environment before going to sleep, in particular to preserve the sleep cycle.”
The more it is dark the more your brain appreciates
Indeed, exposure to bright light or blue light in the evening stimulates the secretion of cortisol (arousal hormone) and inhibits that of melatonin, the key hormone for falling asleep. This is why the slightest light stimulation can be enough to delay sleep or reduce its quality.
“A shower in subdued light, or even in the dark, initiates a natural transition to rest by promoting relaxation of the nervous system and reducing stress”reports the doctor. A real sound-and-light (and sensations) just before giving in to fatigue.
A shower of benefits for your mind
Doing without spotlights in your bathroom during treatment would also have several positive effects, according to our expert:
- Darkness provides deep sensory relaxation, comparable to meditation. In the dark, your senses focus on water, sounds, scents, etc.;
- This promotes a reduction in nervous tension and a peaceful mind before sleep;
- This shower better repairs the body at bedtime by reducing visual distractions and overstimulation.
All this, simply by turning the switch.
How to make the most of your
dark shower ?
Tempted by the “hot water fall in the dark” experience? Dr. Kierzek recommends opting for an amber, red, or low-intensity night light first. Showering in complete darkness is not always comfortable (and it carries some risks!).
It is also possible, and desirable, to combine this ritual with other relaxing gestures: soft music, soothing smells, hot/cold water alternation to maximize the anti-stress effect.
Finally, it is recommended to continue your evening in this subdued mode, without turning on the screens or ceiling lights again, if you want better rest.
Be careful though: for obvious reasons, the trend is not recommended for elderly people or people with loss of balance, at the risk of going from a soothing moment… to painful. Sleep better, yes, but not because we fell heavily into the shower tray!