A Little Darkness Can Be Good for You

Nature can be a form of therapy — even when you spend time with it in the dark. “Dark nature” activities like stargazing and moonlit hikes can spark feelings of connectedness and awe, which may offer mental health benefits.
You might often hear about the benefits of spending a little time under the sun, as our bodies make some vitamin D this way.

But what about spending some time outside in the dark? Research shows that this might also be beneficial.
What the research says
Try to recall a time when you went outside at night and glanced up at the sky. What did you feel in that moment? Connectedness? Awe?
Recent studies may help explain the benefits of these emotions on mental wellness.

Connectedness
Awe
Nature is often a source of awe, which is a feeling you might be familiar with when looking up at a sky full of stars. According to a 2022 research review, experiencing this emotion can help improve:
•emotional, social, and psychological well-being
•levels of anxiety, stress, depression, and PTSD
•physical health
•symptoms of autoimmune disorders
•heart health
•life span

Dark nature activities
Dark nature activities can be a form of ecotherapy, which focuses on the healing power of nature.
Beyond stargazing, other opportunities to spend time with nature in the dark include nighttime walks or moonlit hikes and having a bonfire or campfire.

The takeaway
Just as spending time in the sun and nature can have health benefits, hanging out in the dark while still connecting with nature can, too.
Dark nature activities, such as stargazing, moonlit hikes, or nighttime walks, can have the effects of ecotherapy. This may include improved mental well-being.
So, while an after-dinner walk might be beneficial, you might also want to consider going on after-dark walks.