Thursday, January 30, 2025

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The question of whether one should shower in the morning has unexpectedly become a viral debate across Singapore. What began as a simple discussion on hygiene has spiraled into a polarizing issue, with some individuals even attributing it to racial differences. But let’s take a step back and examine this more rationally—showering, or the lack of it, is not dictated by race but rather by personal habits, environmental factors, and sometimes even psychological conditions.

Why Many of Us Shower in the Morning

For many Singaporeans, showering in the morning is more than just a routine—it is a way to wake up, refresh the body, and prepare for the day ahead. Given Singapore’s tropical climate, where temperatures remain high and humidity levels can soar above 80%, sweating during sleep is almost inevitable (Tan, 2021). This is especially true for those who do not sleep in an air-conditioned room or who tend to perspire easily.

Even if you don’t feel particularly sweaty upon waking up, the body still produces oils, and bacteria accumulate on the skin overnight (Ng & Wong, 2020). A morning shower washes away these impurities, making one feel cleaner and more energized. For those heading to work, school, or any public space, this simple act of hygiene is also a form of consideration for others.

Debunking the Myth of Race and Showering

The attempt to racialize the practice of morning showers is not only misguided but entirely baseless. There is no cultural or racial doctrine that dictates whether someone should or should not shower at a specific time of the day (Lee, 2019). Hygiene practices vary based on upbringing, climate, personal preferences, and lifestyle, rather than racial identity.

Historically, bathing customs have evolved according to geographical and environmental conditions. Societies in colder climates may not see the necessity for frequent bathing due to lower perspiration levels, while those in tropical regions, like Southeast Asia, have long valued frequent showers as part of maintaining hygiene (Chen, 2022). However, these habits stem from climate and convenience rather than any racial predisposition.

But What If You Sleep in an Air-Conditioned Room?

A common argument against morning showers is that if one sleeps in an air-conditioned room, they are not sweating, and thus, a shower is unnecessary. However, hygiene is not solely about visible sweat. Even in cooler conditions, the human body continues to shed dead skin cells and accumulate bacteria overnight (Ong, 2023).

Moreover, let’s not forget the bacteria and viruses that fester in our mouths while we sleep. Overnight, our mouths become breeding grounds for bacteria, in part due to the food we consume before bedtime. Saliva production slows down during sleep, reducing the natural cleansing process, which is why many people wake up with bad breath (Teo & Lim, 2024). This, combined with the bacteria on our skin, makes a morning shower, along with proper oral hygiene, an effective way to start the day feeling truly clean.

The Psychology Behind Avoiding Morning Showers

Beyond personal preference and cultural habits, the aversion to showering—whether in the morning or in general—can sometimes be linked to underlying psychological conditions. Research has shown that individuals struggling with mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or sensory processing disorders, may find it challenging to maintain regular hygiene habits (Tanaka, 2021).

Depression, for instance, can drain individuals of motivation, making simple tasks like taking a shower feel overwhelming. For some, sensory issues make the experience of water on their skin uncomfortable or distressing. In such cases, avoiding showers is not about choice but rather an indication of deeper struggles.

While empathy is crucial, awareness is equally important. We should recognize that while some people may struggle with showering due to psychological reasons, hygiene remains essential for overall health and public well-being. Encouraging open conversations about mental health while still promoting good hygiene practices can help strike a balance between compassion and responsibility.

Hygiene Awareness for a Healthier Year Ahead

As we step into 2025, maintaining good hygiene should be a collective goal. Proper hygiene not only contributes to personal well-being but also plays a significant role in preventing the spread of illnesses. With global health concerns still prevalent, a simple morning shower, alongside regular handwashing and other hygiene practices, can make a difference in curbing infections and maintaining a healthier society.

Rather than debating whether morning showers should be mandatory, the focus should be on encouraging hygienic practices that benefit both individuals and the broader community. Whether one showers in the morning or at night, what truly matters is consistency in hygiene. However, given Singapore’s climate and the realities of overnight bacterial accumulation, a morning shower remains a sensible and refreshing start to the day.

Conclusion: Showering as a Daily Habit, Not a Debate

At its core, showering in the morning is not about race, nor should it be a divisive topic. It is about cleanliness, personal comfort, and consideration for those around us. While individual preferences and psychological factors must be acknowledged, promoting awareness of proper hygiene benefits everyone.

As we move forward into the new year, let’s shift our focus from unnecessary debates to fostering a culture of self-care and well-being. After all, good hygiene is not just about feeling refreshed—it is a fundamental aspect of a healthy, thriving society.

References

Chen, H. (2022). Cultural hygiene practices in tropical and temperate regions. Singapore Journal of Social Studies, 12(3), 45-67.

Lee, K. (2019). The evolution of bathing customs in Southeast Asia. Asian Anthropology Review, 9(2), 102-119.

Ng, W., & Wong, T. (2020). Microbial growth and hygiene: Understanding daily habits. International Journal of Public Health, 15(4), 34-50.

Ong, S. (2023). The unseen bacteria: Hygiene habits and their consequences. Journal of Health and Environment, 8(1), 88-101.

Tan, Y. (2021). Climate and hygiene: How environment shapes our bathing habits. Southeast Asian Studies, 10(1), 22-39.

Tanaka, M. (2021). Psychological disorders and their impact on personal hygiene. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 30(5), 55-73.

Teo, R., & Lim, B. (2024). Oral bacteria and its implications on daily hygiene. Singapore Medical Review, 18(2), 67-83.

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