In a world where we're constantly bombarded with stimuli, from the incessant pings of our smartphones to the hum of the television in the background, it's rare to find a moment of true peace and quiet. But what if the key to unlocking a treasure trove of mental health benefits was to embrace silence and stillness, especially in the most unlikely of places – aboard a flight?

The term 'rawdogging' flights might raise a few eyebrows, but it's not what you might think. It refers to the act of flying without engaging in any form of entertainment – no movies, no music, no reading material – just you and your thoughts, soaring at 35,000 feet. This practice, which has recently gained attention through viral social media posts, is more than just a quirky trend; it's a gateway to mental clarity and creativity, according to psychologists.

Dr. Sandi Mann, a senior psychology lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire and an expert in the science of boredom, wellbeing, and emotions, has shed light on the surprising benefits of this practice. In an exclusive with MailOnline, Dr. Mann explains that by stripping away external distractions, we allow our minds to wander freely, which can ignite a spark of creativity and innovation.

'Rawdogging' flights, foregoing all in-flight entertainment, is claimed to offer significant mental-health benefits. Credit: Tiktok / @westwashere

The concept of low stimulation, which might initially feel uncomfortable due to our natural aversion to boredom, actually encourages our brains to generate their own entertainment. This internal stimulation can lead to a flurry of neural activity, connecting disparate ideas and thoughts in novel ways. It's during these moments of daydreaming and mind-wandering that we often stumble upon our most creative insights and solutions to problems.

Moreover, flights provide an ideal setting for this type of mental exercise. With our devices switched to airplane mode and the outside world temporarily out of reach, we're presented with a rare opportunity to pause and reflect. Dr. Mann suggests that embracing this time can lead to a calming and ultimately rewarding experience, as we learn to sit with our thoughts and let our minds roam free.

But the benefits of 'rawdogging' flights extend beyond creativity. Dr. Daniel Glazer, a clinical psychologist with a special interest in trauma, points out that this form of intentional mindfulness can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels. By focusing on the present moment and disconnecting from the constant influx of information, we engage in a spontaneous form of meditation that can have profound effects on our mental well-being.

While the idea of being alone with one's thoughts for an extended period might seem daunting to some, it's this very challenge that can lead to greater self-awareness and emotional processing. In a society where we're often encouraged to multitask and stay perpetually busy, choosing to 'rawdog' a flight could be a radical act of self-care.

So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, next time you find yourself buckling up for a journey through the skies, consider the potential benefits of turning off the in-flight entertainment and tuning into your own mind. It might just be the mental health break you've been looking for.

Key Takeaways

• 'Rawdogging' flights, a trend of foregoing all forms of in-flight entertainment, has been claimed to offer significant mental-health benefits.
• Dr Sandi Mann, an expert in boredom and creativity, suggests that allowing the mind to wander without distractions can spark creativity and problem-solving.
• A period of low stimulation, such as experienced when 'rawdogging' a flight, can lead to a relaxed state and give rise to more creative ideas and daydreaming, which can be beneficial for stress relief.
• Clinical psychologist Dr. Daniel Glazer points out that this form of improvised meditation can be an effective way to lower stress and anxiety levels by promoting mindfulness and present-moment awareness.

Have you ever tried 'rawdogging' a flight, or do you think you might give it a go after learning about its benefits? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – we'd love to hear how you keep your mind engaged and your stress levels low while traveling.

 

[marni]

Don’t know how you can do this onboard. Constant messages from staff, pilot, trundle of serving trolleys, crying children, airplane noise. Yes give it a go

 

[Winks]

Don’t know how you can do this onboard. Constant messages from staff, pilot, trundle of serving trolleys, crying children, airplane noise. Yes give it a go

I use AirPods on flights & meditate.