For a $100k paycheck, I'd very quickly find a 30 day opening in my schedule. A month long retreat sounds pretty nice, actually. Preparation is definitely key to this challenge, though. You also weigh the possibility of damage to your psyche with this challenge, and there is a high likelihood of permanent changes to your personality. Then again, the sudden acquisition of $100k could also do damage/change.

I would take that bet in almost all cases. The only people I would consider even remotely able to accomplish 30 days in solitary darkness would be someone who has thoroughly prepared and practiced for decades.

How much can you actually cover? I've done solitary stretches over 30 days more than once and while I don't like confinement, it's tolerable. That much darkness is a big unknown, but I've always rather enjoyed the darkness. Perhaps the stint as an astronomer sufficiently prepared me for this challenge.

I would do it if I could read (backlit Kindle in the dark) or use my computer. Otherwise, doesn't really seem worth it.

Or even audiobooks/podcasts. But that would be too easy.

Wouldn't it atrophy your ability to see? Like, the brain getting anomalous, low-signal data for such a long time?

It might. You can offset this risk by rubbing your eyes through your closed eyelids stimulate the optic receptors.

HackerNews anons will brag about being able to do this, but sensory deprivation for this is very dangerous. Most probably won't do make it, and there's risk of irreparable mental harm.

This might be daily mail junk, but... https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-509648/Losin...

Two days shows effects. 30 days? For a novice? No way.

dude.. he's simulating being blind for 30 days. he's going to make an easy 100k with no adverse after effects.

Blind people still interact with others.