Every once in a while, a health trend so unbelievably crazy comes along that it leaves us wondering if it’s nothing more than a parody. “Perineum Sunning”, or exposing your ‘back door’ to direct sunlight for a few minutes every week is one such trend, and unfortunately it’s no joke.
Did you know that exposing your butthole to direct sunlight for just 30 seconds every day is the equivalent of a full day of sunlight exposure with your clothes on? At least that’s what Instagram “healer” Metaphysical Megan claims in one of the viral social media posts that catapulted perineum sunning to health craze level. It also allegedly gives you more energy than chugging several cups of coffee and improves sleep, among other health and spiritual benefits. However, many medical experts warn that this bizarre practice can be dangerous, as the perineum area is particularly sensitive and exposing it to direct sunlight without protection could increase the risk of skin cancer.
Photo: Daoudi Aissa/Unsplash
“In a mere 30 seconds of sunlight on your butthole, you will receive more energy from this electric node than you would in an entire day being outside with your clothes on,” Instagram user ra_of_earth wrote in a viral post, back in October. He also posted a step-by-step Sun Worship exercise from a book by Dr. Stephen T. Chang, who claims that it can help keep the area “healthy and free of germs”.
“30 seconds of direct sunlight injection to The anal orifice is equivalent to being outside in the sun ALL DAY!” Instagram user certifiedhealthnut wrote in a post that has gotten over 2,000 likes.
According to some sources, even celebrities have been caught in the perineum sunning trend, including Hollywood actress Shylene Woodley, who told The Gloss that she uses it to get a vitamin D boost during the winter months.
Health experts have been quick to refute the claims made by so-called social media influencers regarding perineum sunning, calling the practice unnecessary and probably unhealthy.
Looks up “perineum sunning”….
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. pic.twitter.com/ukbCCe8c7w— Flying Turkey Not (@Notintheface1) November 28, 2019
There is no evidence that sunbathing in this way has any effect on physical wellbeing,” Dr Diana Gall from Doctor-4-U told Insider. “Yes, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and getting your dose of Vitamin D, is beneficial for mental and physical health, but you don’t need to damage your skin in the process from sun exposure.”
