For many South Africans, the festive season means time for relaxation and spending quality time with family. But for others, it can feel less like a holiday and more like another source of pressure.
Yet one of the simplest ways to reset may be right above us. Research suggests the benefits of stargazing extend far beyond a pretty view, offering real mental health support during one of the busiest times of the year.
The benefits of stargazing for mental health this festive season
New South African research led by Stellenbosch University’s CoCREATE Health Hub has found that structured stargazing experiences can reduce anxiety and improve emotional clarity. The night sky encourages “soft fascination,” gently drawing attention and promoting mindfulness, a key element in restoring mental balance.
With earlier studies estimating that more than a quarter of South African adults show symptoms of probable depression and nearly one in five show signs of anxiety, accessible and low-cost well-being tools are urgently needed.
The Astronomy for Mental Health project is the first in the country to investigate how awe, reflection and cosmic perspective influence emotional well-being. Participants joined guided stargazing sessions ranging from community gatherings to multi-night retreats in Sutherland, home to the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT). You can explore SALT and the Karoo’s other gems for your bucket list here.
Over a weekend in Sutherland, 14 families from diverse backgrounds observed Saturn’s rings, lunar craters, and the Milky Way, followed by reflective fireside conversations. Within 24 hours, they reported reduced anxiety, improved mood, and a sense of “mental spaciousness,” a calmer, clearer mental state that helped them feel less overwhelmed.
Why stargazing works
Researchers believe the impact comes from a mix of awe, nature immersion and perspective. The night sky shifts attention away from daily stressors, invites quiet reflection and creates a moment of connection, both with others and with the broader world. Participants described feeling grounded, present and better able to manage emotional load.
Simple Ways to Enjoy Stargazing in South Africa This Festive Season
With the above results in mind, now is a better time than ever to look up. You don’t need a telescope to start, just a little time and the open sky:
- Pick a clear night: After dusk, when the stars shine brightest.
- Escape light pollution: Your backyard works, but nature reserves and dark spots offer the best views.
- Invite company: Storytelling under the stars creates memories.
For inspiration, look at these stargazing spots in South Africa. Looking for some urban stargazing ideas? Try these Johannesburg or Cape Town options for inspiration. Start your experience with the Geminid meteor shower from 13-14 December 2025.
If you feel weighed down by the year’s demands, stepping away from screens and looking up may be the reset you need. This festive season, consider making stargazing part of your holiday plans. It is free, backed by science and one of the most accessible ways to reduce stress, reconnect with loved ones and gain a little perspective under South Africa’s breathtaking night sky.
