Background:Interest in complementary and traditional health practices has increased globally, particularly for interventions targeting mental well-being, circadian health, and lifestyle-related disorders. Sungazing, the practice of intentional sun viewing usually during sunrise or sunset, has gained attention within yoga, naturopathy, and online wellness communities. However, direct evidence supporting therapeutic claims remains limited, while ocular safety concerns remain significant. Objective:This narrative review critically examines the proposed therapeutic effects, biological mechanisms, traditional foundations, and documented safety concerns associated with sungazing practices. Methods:A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases. Literature related to sungazing, heliotherapy, sunlight exposure, solar meditation, and solar retinopathy was screened and synthesized narratively. Results:Current evidence suggests that safe sunlight exposure may support circadian rhythm regulation, vitamin D synthesis, mood, and sleep quality through neuroendocrine and photobiological mechanisms. However, direct evidence supporting intentional sungazing remains limited and methodologically weak. In contrast, ophthalmological literature consistently documents risks including solar retinopathy, retinal burns, visual distortion, and permanent retinal injury following direct solar viewing. Conclusion:Although controlled sunlight exposure may provide physiological and psychological benefits, current evidence does not support direct sungazing as a safe therapeutic intervention. Safer alternatives such as indirect morning light exposure, yoga, meditation, and evidence-based light therapy should be prioritized.
Naragatti et al. (2026) studied this question.