Phenomenon RAW Dogging: A look at the latest trend
We all know it: long flights can be tough like chewing gum. While some of us pass the time with a cocktail, snacks and music, there are now a group of people who radically deal with the flight experience. Welcome to the world of “RAW Dogging” – the trend to deliberately refuse to distract every distraction on long -haul flights. Sounds painful? That’s it too.
What is RAW dogging?
Raw Dogging describes the practice to do without any forms of entertainment, comfort and sometimes even essential things like water during a flight. No films, no music, no book, no snacks – just you and the bleak announcements. The term actually comes from a completely different corner and is used ironically to give the “raw”, genuine flight experiences a name.
Where does the term come from?
The term “raw dogging” has its origins in colloquial language and means in the original context “without protection or filter” – often with a certain pinch. So why transfer this term to a flight experience? The idea behind it is to give the journey an archaic, puristic touch – a kind of Meditation about being on the plane. No headphones, no cuddly blanket, no glass of wine, only you and the endless, merciless boredom.
The reported effects
The followers report on a wide range of experiences that ranges from enlightening moments to existential crises. Some claim that raw dogging strengthens their willpower and a deeper connection to their own Resilience gave. Others report on complete breakdown and the sudden but overwhelming desire to simply cancel the return flight.
What do experts say?
Health experts warn of the potential risks of this trend. Dr. Gill Jenkins, general practitioner and aviation doctor, described the participants as “idiots” and emphasized that the disposal of movement and fluid intake increases the risk of thrombosis and dehydration during long flights. The neuroscientist Mark Williams pointed out that the aircraft environment is not really undisturbed and that external stimuli such as engine noises or crying babies are still present.
Why do people do that?
Why this trend? Perhaps as a counter reaction to our overstimulating, digital world. Or maybe just because people like to challenge themselves, especially if they can post their experiences on social media afterwards. A user reports on Reddit: “After six hours, I started to interpret the volume of the engine rhythmically. After nine hours, I had convincing theories about the love life of the crew.” Another says: “I learned that it is possible to imagine a sudoku app with the eyes. Spoiler: I lost.”