Step Away from the Noise.
Step Into the Stillness.
We offer a rare space for deep rest, clarity, and inner renewal — through the simple yet profound power of complete darkness.
When all external light fades, the mind begins to settle, the body rests, and your inner world becomes clearer.
We offer a rare space for deep rest, clarity, and inner renewal — through the simple yet profound power of complete darkness.
When all external light fades, the mind begins to settle, the body rests, and your inner world becomes clearer.
Darkness Retreats
What Is a Darkness Retreat?
Darkness Retreat (also called dark retreat or darkroom retreat) is a unique experience where the individual spends time in complete darkness. The absence of light and external stimuli creates an environment where the senses can turn inward, which can promote deeper self-reflection, mental clarity and relaxation.
Cultural & Historical Roots
Practices involving extended time in darkness have existed for centuries across diverse spiritual traditions. In the Dzogchen and Kalachakra schools of Tibetan Buddhism, darkness is used to cultivate deep meditative states. Similar approaches are found in the Kogi mamos tribe of Colombia, Ayurvedic traditions in India, and mystical Christian practices in medieval Europe.
These lineages share a belief that darkness can support profound inner transformation.
Short Retreats
A gentle introduction into darkness — ideal for nervous system reset, emotional grounding, or meditative deepening.
Extended Retreats
For those seeking a more immersive experience — allowing space for deeper integration, creative clarity, or transformative rest.
Guided Retreats
Includes preparation, intention-setting, and optional check-ins during your stay — ideal for first-time retreaters or those exploring specific intentions.
What to Expect
Before Your Retreat
Personalized guidance to prepare mentally and practically
What to bring, how to arrive, and how to settle in
During Your Retreat
A quiet, purpose-built dark room designed for full sensory withdrawal
Optional check-ins and support from our team
Daily, nourishing meals delivered silently to your door
After Your Retreat
Gentle re-entry from darkness
Optional reflection or integration support
Continued connection and resources if desired
Who Are Darkness Retreats For?
Our retreats may support you if you are:
✅ Feeling overstimulated or emotionally fatigued
✅ Seeking time for personal insight and clarity
✅ Recovering from stress or burnout
✅ Looking to deepen your meditation or spiritual practice
✅ Curious about what happens in true stillness
Science & Research
In recent decades, research on states of consciousness has increased significantly. Fields such as psychology, neuroscience and quantum physics have begun to explore how sensory isolation, including darkness, can affect brain function and mental processes. Darkness can affect the circadian cycle, hormone levels and perception, making it an interesting area for further research in psychology and behavioral science.
Today, there are around thirty locations worldwide that offer darkness retreats, where individuals can explore this ancient practice in a modern context. Noord Darkness Retreats strives to combine traditional wisdom with scientific research to better understand the potential of darkness as a tool for mental recovery and inner development.
” This has been a deep reset for me. I feel full of life, enervy and clarity. I still experience waking up to a dream right now and I am fascinated by the colors and vibrancy of nature “
Daniel, 35
5 days / 4 nights
Begin Your Journey Into Stillness
Choose your path. Whether for clarity, rest, or inner work — the retreat begins the moment the light goes out.
