No films, no music, no sleep: Is 'raw-dogging' long flights heroic or foolish?

Damion Bailey, a 34-year-old from Miami, Florida, recently made headlines for completing a remarkable feat: a 13-and-a-half-hour flight from Shanghai to Dallas without any form of in-flight entertainment, including movies, music, or even books. He shared his experience on Instagram, stating, 'It’s quite tough, honestly,' yet he finds enjoyment in the challenge. This growing trend, known as 'raw-dogging,' involves passengers enduring long flights while avoiding distractions, simply staring ahead for hours on end. The idea is that the longer one can go without entertainment, the more resilient they prove to be. Some individuals even take it a step further by avoiding food and drink, with a few claiming they won’t even get up to use the restroom. However, health experts are raising alarms about the potential dangers associated with such extreme practices. Recently, Manchester City footballer Erling Haaland joined the ranks of those embracing the 'raw-dogging' trend, boasting on social media about surviving a seven-hour flight with 'no phone, no sleep, no water, no food. ' His claims sparked skepticism among social media users, with many questioning whether he truly adhered to his own rules. Some even humorously speculated if he might be a robot. The trend of 'raw-dogging' has gained traction over the past year, particularly among young men, many of whom are athletic and fit. They share videos of themselves on flights, fixated on the in-flight map or the safety instructions card, asserting that they are harnessing the 'power of the mind' to endure the journey. The term 'raw-dogging' originally had a different connotation, but it has evolved to signify undertaking activities without any form of support or protection. For these young men, the allure lies in the opportunity to demonstrate their mental toughness and self-discipline. However, medical professionals are sounding the alarm about the significant health risks associated with such extreme behaviors. Dr. Gill Jenkins, a general practitioner who also works as a medical escort for air ambulances, expressed her concerns, stating, 'They’re idiots. ' She emphasized that while a digital detox might be beneficial, the other aspects of this trend are contrary to medical advice. Dr. Jenkins explained that long-haul flights pose risks of dehydration, and remaining immobile increases the likelihood of developing deep vein thrombosis, a serious condition that can arise from prolonged sitting. She also pointed out that ignoring the need to use the restroom is unwise, stating, 'If you need the loo, you need the loo. ' On a more positive note, business psychologist Danielle Haig acknowledged that there could be some benefits to the trend. She suggested that spending time in quiet reflection allows individuals to mentally recharge and gain new perspectives in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. Haig believes that this trend reflects a collective desire for balance as people seek to reclaim their mental space and foster a deeper connection with themselves. She noted that 'raw-dogging' provides young men, in particular, with an opportunity to showcase their ability to endure solitude and discomfort with grace. Damion Bailey recounted that his first experience with 'raw-dogging' occurred on a shorter flight when he forgot his headphones and found nothing appealing to watch. He enjoyed the challenge and decided to continue this practice on future flights. Sandi Mann, an academic and author of 'The Science of Boredom,' argued that allowing oneself to experience boredom can be beneficial for relaxation and creativity. She emphasized the importance of reducing our reliance on the constant stimulation provided by modern technology, suggesting that people should take time to breathe and simply observe their surroundings, even if it means staring at the clouds during a flight. However, Mann also acknowledged that current health guidelines stress the importance of staying mobile during long flights and that avoiding food and water could pose additional health risks. She cautioned, 'I think people need to understand this is not ideal for a seven-hour flight. ' Not everyone is convinced that 'raw-dogging' is a wise choice. One social media user remarked, 'Sounds like self-inflicted torture with literally no incentive,' expressing a preference for in-flight Wi-Fi, sleep masks, and snacks. Others have raised doubts about whether individuals truly adhere to their self-imposed rules during lengthy flights. Some who have attempted 'raw-dogging' have reported disappointing experiences. A TikTok user named Brenda shared her thoughts, stating, 'Big mistake. Pretty sure the only thing that took off was my sanity. ' She concluded that she would not be trying it again, describing it as an overrated experience. Have you ever tried this trend? If so, we would love to hear your story.