As concerns around mental health and the effects of urban living continue to rise, an old tradition from the Netherlands is gaining traction in the UK: ‘dusking’. This practice, which involves gathering outdoors to witness the transition from day to night, has been revitalised by Dutch poet Marjolijn van Heemstra. Advocates argue that dusking offers a simple yet profound way to disconnect from our screens and reconnect with nature, potentially enhancing our overall wellbeing.
The Revival of an Old Tradition
In the picturesque setting of the North York Moors, a group of around 20 participants gathered for the UK’s inaugural dusking event. The atmosphere was serene, illuminated only by a crescent moon and the first twinkling stars. As the daylight faded, the absence of artificial light became evident. This event, inspired by a practice that had been commonplace in Dutch homes until the last century, offered a unique opportunity to experience the natural world without distractions.
Van Heemstra, who introduced the concept to a new audience, explained that dusking requires participants to focus their attention on a single point, allowing the surrounding environment to gradually dissolve into darkness. “It’s about watching something fade away,” she noted, emphasising the meditative quality of the experience.
This revival of dusking can be traced back to van Heemstra’s own discovery of the practice through conversations with elderly individuals who fondly recalled evenings spent watching dusk settle before lighting lamps. Her research unveiled historical references to dusking, dating back to the 18th century, revealing that this contemplative ritual had once been a cherished part of daily life.
Mindfulness in the Modern Age
Dusking is being heralded not just as a nostalgic activity, but as a form of mindfulness that encourages individuals to engage with the world around them. Van Heemstra points out that in an age characterised by constant connectivity, this practice is a remedy for our increasingly distracted lifestyles. “There is an attention crisis in the Netherlands,” she asserts. “The solution is simple: slow down and reduce screen time.”
This sentiment resonates with many participants, who find that dusking fosters a deeper connection with their surroundings. The practice encourages reflection and stillness, offering a counterbalance to the frenetic pace of modern life. As van Heemstra observes, dusking is accessible to everyone; it requires nothing more than a chair and a view, making it a low-cost, communal experience that can be enjoyed in various settings.
The Health Implications of Light Pollution
The benefits of dusking extend beyond individual wellbeing; they also highlight a growing awareness of the detrimental effects of light pollution on both human health and the environment. Research has indicated that excessive artificial light can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to a host of health issues, including sleep disturbances, mood disorders, and even increased risks of certain diseases.
Jenny Hall, a professor of cultural geographies at York St John University, emphasises the ecological consequences of light pollution, noting its impact on nocturnal wildlife and the broader ecosystem. “Artificial light at night impairs the natural behaviours of various species, contributing to declining populations of insects and other nocturnal fauna,” she explains. With studies showing that LED lights can drastically reduce the nighttime activity of vital pollinators like moths, the urgency to address light pollution has never been clearer.
In response, initiatives are being launched to protect dark skies. The North York Moors, designated as a dark sky reserve in 2020, represents one of the UK’s efforts to combat light pollution. By implementing strategies such as dimming streetlights and promoting low-impact lighting solutions, the aim is to restore a sense of night-time tranquillity and protect the natural world.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of dusking serves as a reminder of our intrinsic connection to the rhythms of nature, an antidote to the pervasive artificiality of modern life. As we become increasingly aware of the negative health impacts associated with light pollution and the disconnection from our environment, practices like dusking offer a pathway to reclaiming our time and attention. By engaging with the natural world in this simple yet profound manner, we not only enhance our personal wellbeing but also contribute to a broader dialogue about the importance of preserving our planet’s natural rhythms. In a world that often prioritises convenience over connection, dusking invites us to pause, reflect, and rediscover the beauty of the twilight hours.
