A viral sensation has swept through TikTok, captivating millions of viewers using the hashtag 'bed rotting'. Generation Z users are wholeheartedly embracing a more relaxed lifestyle, seeking solace and self-care within the cozy confines of their beds.
Content creators are sharing their morning rituals and detailing their experiences of indulging in bed rotting, which can range from indulgent TV show marathons to working from beneath the comforting layers of a duvet.
However, this trend has not been without its detractors, as concerns about potential health consequences have arisen.
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According to psychologist and CEO Robert Common published in the independent he said, “Bed rotting is the practice of spending an extended amount of time during your normal waking hours, or even a whole day, lying in bed. You could be watching films, scrolling on social media, talking on the phone, eating, or anything you would normally do if you were at home relaxing.
“This differs from bed rest to recover from illness or injury, and is often used as a method of dealing with stress or anxiety, or as a self-care tool”
Common's states that this isn't the first time we have seen this trend “Although bed rotting might be the hottest self-care method trending on TikTok, the idea behind it isn’t new”
He continued, “People have been taking ‘duvet days’ for a long time now, and many companies even have policies around this, allowing staff an entitlement to several duvet days per year."
In a fast paced world young people are feeling more stressed than ever, “What we are seeing with this trend is more a case of social media driving conversations among young people. It could be especially appealing to Gen Zs, as many report feeling more stressed than other generations, so taking time away from it all to recuperate mentally could be especially appealing” he added.
Common's explained "There are some elements to this that can be damaging on your overall health and wellbeing when over used, “Spending the odd day here and there throughout the month bed rotting is unlikely to do you any damage – quite the reverse. However, as with all things in life, balance is key”
For example, “If bed rotting becomes a dominating factor or behaviour in how you spend your free time, this could be an indicator of depression or burnout. If you suspect you’re experiencing these – or other underlying health issues – it’s important to seek appropriate support to help identify the root causes, and find healthy ways to manage them.”
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