The Dark Side of Better Health

Many cultures celebrate the moon as a symbol of transformation and renewal. It’s a theme that goes beyond poetic creativity. Stepping out into the night and experiencing the allure of a moonlit scene has a positive effect on physical and mental health. This transformative power, however, is less about the moon itself and more about staying connected to dark nature.

Enter the Dark

Dark nature refers to the natural world at night. Stargazing, moonlit walks, or even sitting quietly in a forest, field or on a shore without the dominance of artificial light are all forms of dark nature.

“This allows our senses, nervous system and perception to shift in ways they rarely do in our light-saturated world,” explains trauma-informed educator and performance psychology practitioner at Kaizen Catalyst, Stephanie High.

Countless studies have already connected our need to engage with nature regularly for physical and mental wellness. Immersion in dark nature expands this concept in a very particular way.

“From a mental performance perspective, dark nature can prompt ‘awe;’ a state linked to reduced rumination, increased perspective-taking and lowered stress markers,” High says. “Reduced artificial light exposure at night can help regulate circadian rhythms and promote melatonin production, improving sleep quality. Being in dark, quiet spaces also shifts the body toward a parasympathetic, rest-and-digest, state, which supports recovery from daily stress.”

A New Perspective

High discusses increased perspective-taking. Life Coach, Sara Oliveri, Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP), Master Certified Life Coach, and Professional Certified Coach (PCC) from the International Coach Federation, adds another element that is likely influencing our dark nature experiences.

Oliveri observes, “There is something incredibly sensual about dark nature. It’s as if being outside in the dark helps us to become more attuned to all our other senses.”

We process our environment using our senses, and of these, humans tend to rely most on vision. At night, when our vision is compromised, we depend more on sound, smell and touch to give us vital information about our surroundings. How this perspective affects us depends on the activity.

“Laying down and stargazing may have a profoundly soothing effect on our nervous system, whereas something like swimming at night may have a profound invigorating effect,” Oliveri says.

Bright and Unhealthy

A truly dark sky is becoming an increasingly rare phenomenon. Even in remote areas, sky glow (the brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas) is more common. Light pollution negatively affects many species—migratory birds, pollinators, sea turtles and mammals, including humans. A daily dose of dark is essential for our circadian rhythms and the connection between our physical and mental well-being.

“Disrupted circadian rhythms have been linked to increased risk for sleep disorders, metabolic conditions and even mood dysregulation,” High says. “The loss of naturally dark environments also limits opportunities for awe and perspective, two key psychological experiences that help buffer against burnout and anxiety.”

Vitamin N, for Night

According to High, 20-30 minutes of dark nature can benefit mood regulation and nervous system balance. However, she emphasizes the importance of making the experience intentional by turning off devices to enhance sensory input. Coincidentally, it takes us about 20 minutes for our vision to adjust to the dark.

Oliveri and High acknowledge that a fear of the dark often stems from its unfamiliarity and is perfectly normal. Oliveri highlights the unknown element as a positive.

“It [the dark] feels a little bit scary,” Oliveri states. “That is part of what makes it so special and so novel. Without that element, it might feel boring instead of magical. Doing it with someone else instead of alone can help us feel less fearful.”

It’s time to resist avoiding the night. Take time to tune into the moon, look at the stars and linger past sunset views into the twilight. Turn off your lights so others can do the same. In this way, we can all enjoy the mystery, beauty and better health that dark nature brings to our lives.

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