After five days in a dark cave, a scienist emerged with life-changing insights
Kiana Aran, a bioengineer, recently completed a five-day darkness retreat in Poland to study the effects of sensory deprivation on her body. Initially, she found the experience calming, but by the third day, she struggled with disorientation and the absence of time. The retreat is part of a growing trend among wellness seekers, although experts caution about the psychological challenges and lack of scientific research on such practices.
- ▪Kiana Aran wore sensors to monitor her biological responses during the retreat.
- ▪The experience began as a luxurious solitude but became increasingly difficult by day three.
- ▪Experts warn that darkness retreats can be psychologically challenging and may disrupt circadian rhythms.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Five days in darkness left scientist Kiana Aran thinking about anything but scienceBy Rhiannon StevensTopic:WellnessSun 31 May 2026 at 4:30amSun 31 May 2026 at 4:30amSun 31 May 2026 at 4:30amKiana Aran wore a mask as she emerged from the dark cabin. On her forehead is a neuroverse sensor monitoring her brain signals. (Supplied: Kiana Aran)abc.net.au/news/darkness-retreat-sensory-deprivation-cave-kiana-aran/106681456Link copiedShareShare articleWellness retreats around the world are offering what's becoming an increasingly popular experience: nothing.Several days and nights spent in a plush "darkness cabin" with no light, sound, entertainment or external interaction aside from the meals delivered to the room via a light-sealed box.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).