What Is Perineum Sunning?

With summer now in full swing, certain wellness fads are once again taking over the internet… One of them being perineum sunning (AKA sunbathing the area between your genitals and anus). Yes, you read that right.

You might be thinking… why on earth would anyone feel the need to sunbathe an area where the sun doesn’t normally shine? Some find it to be a freeing, spiritual experience, while others partake solely for the alleged health benefits. How it actually affects our bodies is up for debate.

Where Does Perineum Sunning Originate From?

This practice has been brought about by influencers and celebrities posting photos of themselves online in their birthday suits with their genitals pointed to the sky. It has since spread like wildfire and resurfaces from time to time with loads of people eager to hop onboard the trend and try it out themselves.

Though not confirmed, some claim that it’s an ancient Taoist practice which originated in the East Pacific. Allegedly in Taoism, a Chinese philosophy, there is a belief which the perineum (the area between your genitals and anus) is a gateway which energy enters and exits the body. But this really comes down to a matter of personal opinion and beliefs.

What Are The Benefits Of Perineum Sunning?

The alleged benefits of perineum sunning are pretty impressive if they are actually are true. If so, I would consider doing it too! For a mere 30 seconds with your perineum exposed to the sun, it’s said that it can:

increase libido
boost energy levels
enhance mood
increase creativity
regulate hormone function
promote better sleep
increase longevity
cleanse the genitals from germs
strengthen organs

Sun exposure is certainly important and beneficial. However, these are pretty bold claims for simply exposing your “down under” to the sun for less than a minute. Those who classify themselves as spiritual beings wholeheartedly believe this to be a safe and sound practice with a multitude of benefits for their overall wellness. However, doctors aren’t convinced by their claims.

Does Perineum Sunning Actually Work?

While doctors fully support safe and moderate sun exposure, they aren’t convinced that perineum sunning is necessary or provides the benefits that people claim it does. There is no scientific evidence that backs up any of these claims (at least not yet). Although, there haven’t been any scientific studies on this exact topic to date… So you never know what the future may hold.

Doctors say that simple sun exposure with clothing (and not directly on your genitals) is more than enough to provide your body with adequate vitamin D. It is recommended that in the summer, the average healthy person needs only 10-20 minutes of sun per day to prevent low vitamin D levels.

They also encourage pursuing overall health and wellness in other ways. These can be things like eating a healthy diet, staying active and getting adequate sleep. If you’re wanting to embrace your spirituality, consider practicing meditation, breathing exercises or spending time in nature.

Is Perineum Sunning Safe?

The perineum is considered to be one of the most sensitive parts of the body because it typically doesn’t get exposed to light (at least not very often). The skin down there is also extremely thin compared to other areas of your body. Although you only need a minimum of 30 seconds of sunlight exposure to reap the supposed benefits, this offers plenty of time to do damage.

If practiced consistently overtime, it can lead to long term sun damage. It can cause sunburn (perhaps the most uncomfortable sunburn you’ll ever experience), dermatitis, or even skin cancer. In addition to this, it can also trigger flare-ups for those who have STI’s like HPV and herpes.

If you want to try it for yourself despite medical advice, at least do yourself a favor and wear sunscreen. It may also be wise to do it at a time of day when the sun isn’t at its strongest. If done in moderation or on the off chance that you try it once or twice just to see what it’s like, it’s unlikely to do too much harm. Just be careful!

Final Thoughts

There isn’t any scientific research proving or suggesting that there are any true benefits to perineum sunning. This seems to be a spiritual self-care practice and belief more than anything else. If you’re someone who finds it empowering and beneficial for your overall wellness, then all the power to you.

Some might say don’t knock it until you’ve tried it, however, taking into account the risks, do so at your own discretion. There are safer ways to get your daily dose of vitamin D without running the risk of sunburn on your most sensitive area (and potential questioning from your neighbors).