Experts have had their say on the “correct” way to face in the shower following claims that neurodivergent people tend to shower backwards.
Whilst it is likely you have never given the direction you face a second thought, it turns out it could say a lot about your character. That’s the opinion of TikTok user, Canadian Ginger, who believes those that wash themselves whilst looking away from the shower head are doing so in “the right way”.
Her thoughts quickly went viral, amassing 1.4 million views in six days – with scores of others weighing in with their own conclusions. Writing in reply, one person questioned: “I’m so confused… people face the showerhead? Why? No way that’s the normal way.”
A second concurred: “I was just saying this exact thing to my husband and he agrees that there is no way anyone showers facing the water. It could be because we are old and have back pain though.”
And a third TikTok user quipped: “I thought facing the shower head was only for characters in movies having drama moments.”
Others, however, stated the opposite, backing up the neurodivergent claim. “I’m neurodivergent and I shower in front,” one individual advised. “I just put the shower head downwards so it faces my body and not my face.”
Similarly, another shared: “I am neurodivergent and I face the shower head most of the time, just step far enough back and angled below my face. I step closer to exfoliate my face and turn around to wash my hair.”
While a third declared: ” I stand with my face directly in the water! So relaxing.”
So are there right and wrong ways? According to a doctor, the direction we face tends to be influenced by the sensation of water splashing against our faces and bodies – and how well we can cope with it.
“A lot of it comes down to sensory preference and nervous system regulation, scientist, Dr Vincent Candrawinata told news.com.au. “The face is one of the most sensitive parts of the body, packed with nerve endings. Direct water hitting your face can feel overstimulating, especially if the pressure is high, the temperature is hot and you’re already stressed or fatigued.”
Dr Vincent continued: “Facing away can feel more calming and controlled. It reduces sensory input and gives a sense of relaxation, which is why many people instinctively turn their back when they want to unwind.”
