Featured Image Credit: Tyla
Topics: TikTok, Travel, Mental Health
Jess Hardiman
Whether it’s just a couple of hours or a long-haul journey to the other side of the world across two legs, you always want to make sure you’re prepared for a flight.
Of course, what that means will differ from person to person, with some swearing by a trusty neck pillow, while others are just concerned about making sure they’ve downloaded all the latest podcasts.
And don’t even get us started on the difficulties of dressing for the temperature on board... Best off just layering up to give yourself some decent options either way.
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But there’s a TikTok trend that seems to go against all ideas of efficient preparation – and yep, it’s pretty much as wild as it seems.
The modern art of ‘raw-dogging’ hinges on doing absolutely nothing while travelling. No music, no films, not even any food or drink.
One woman who gave it a go admitted it was not 'for the faint of heart', having claimed to Tyla she ‘burst into tears’ following the traumatic four-hour experience.
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Afterwards, she found she felt angry - but didn't know why - and four days later admitted she'd 'not quite been the same ever since'.
It probably didn't help that there were no available runways at Gatwick, which meant her plane had to circle the sky for an extra 30 minutes before finally landing. Ouch.
But before you write it off, a psychologist has some insight that may just change your mind.
Revealing exactly what can happen if you brave the viral trend, psychologist Dr Lalitaa Suglani previously explained to us how the effects might not be as bad as they first feel, and that, actually, it could all be a beneficial experience.
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Speaking on behalf of AltIndex, Suglani said: “Enduring a flight without any form of entertainment can have a mix of psychological and physiological effects.
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“Initially, it might seem daunting due to the heavy reliance we have on digital devices and constant stimulation. The absence of these distractions can lead to increased awareness of discomfort, boredom, and even anxiety as the mind grapples with the void.”
If you're wondering whether or not you'll have the mental strength to do it, she said it's important to remember that it's just a 'short-term experience'.
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There are a number of symptoms you may experience during a raw-dogging stint, such as ‘painful ringing’ in your ears, or feeling ‘delirious’, but the psychologist argued that there are some positive benefits of being totally unstimulated.
“While it [raw-dogging] can provide a glimpse into the benefits of going without constant stimulation, its impact may be limited because it's a one-time event rather than a sustained practice," she continued.
“True benefits come from regularly incorporating periods of mindfulness and self-reflection into daily life.”
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According to Suglani, some of the benefits include:
She explained: “Going without entertainment can be an opportunity to practise mindfulness, paying attention to the present moment without distraction.
“This can lead to a deeper sense of calm and presence.”
And that's not all.
Suglani added: “Without constant input from external sources, the mind has a chance to wander and generate new ideas, enhancing creativity."
Naturally, the absence of external distractions could also pave the way for a bit of inward reflection.
The expert said: “Periods without distraction can provide valuable time for self-reflection, allowing individuals to process thoughts and emotions they might otherwise ignore.”
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