Humans have looked to the cosmos for guidance for centuries, from the songlines of Indigenous Australians to the navigation of many ancient and more modern civilisations, including Egyptians, Ancient Greeks and Vikings.
Now, the modern iteration is less about astronomy and more about taking time out to let something larger than yourself fill you with awe.
The result? More than one study has found that experiencing awe lowers heart rate, increases the presence of oxytocin and reduces inflammation. The list of physical and mental health changes goes on, so it’s no wonder star-bathing is becoming particularly popular with those experiencing burnout.
Star-bathing is about disconnecting from the online world and getting out under the stars. You could just sit still and let the universe wash over you, or you could pair it with other activities, like wild swimming, night-time hikes and forest meditation.
Whatever you choose, the key is escaping light pollution and heading into the remote and wild areas.
Here are some of Australia’s best star-bathing destinations to get you started.
1. Winton, Queensland
Winton is an incredible place for many reasons: Dinosaur discoveries, boulder opals, aviation history, bush poets.
But thanks to its small size, lack of lights and empty surrounding countryside, it’s pretty incredible for star bathing.
Head to the Australian Age Of Dinosaurs Museum not only for the first dinosaur discoveries in Australia, but to bathe in its dark sky status. In fact, it was the first in Australia. The free Star Gallery area is perfect to set up a telescope and let the universe awe you.
2. Goat Bluff Lookout, Tasmania
You could be anywhere in Tasmania for a chance to catch the magical, natural light show of the aurora australis (or southern lights), but a local favourite continues to be Goat Bluff Lookout on South Arm Peninsula, about 35 kilometres south-east of Hobart. Or in driving terms, an easy 35 minutes.
3. Snake Valley, Victoria
Nestled between Ballarat and Beaufort in western Victoria, Snake Valley has made the most of its very dark country sky with an observatory.
While mostly used for research, it holds four public astronomy nights every year. At different times of the year, spot the planets, star clusters, nebulae and more.
Be sure to check the website for upcoming dates and book ahead. Sometimes, star-bathing requires planning.
4. Nambung National Park, Western Australia
The Pinnacles are striking at any time of day. But add shooting stars and the Milky Way as a backdrop, and they become breathtaking.
Join a star-gazing tour and you’ll also get dinner and use of the latest astronomy equipment to help you get the most out of your stargazing experience – you might even glimpse the rings of Saturn.
5. River Murray, South Australia
The River Murray is not only perfect for floating along in a houseboat, but along the northern border of the river, lakes and Coorong Region, it’s also an International Dark Sky Reserve with unpolluted night skies.
As it’s only a 90-minute drive from Adelaide, you don’t even need to stay the whole night. However, it’s the perfect place to sleep in a river shack or go camping on the riverbank to extend your star-bathing pleasure.
This article first appeared in Australian Traveller. Read the original here
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