Social media have been creating trends that run the gamut from beauty and food, to weight loss trends. Some of these might even be dangerous for your health! Along with these, there has also been a surreptitious rise in self-care trends.
Discover our latest podcast
These are essentially an expression of this generation's aspirations for the kind of life they would like to lead, and the relationship to self they want to cultivate.
One of these new trends to go viral right now, is bed rotting. While earlier, people championed habits such as waking up an hour earlier to maximise productivity or health, as reported by Glam, the bed rotting trend involves staying in bed for as long as possible, while enjoying passive pastimes such as scrolling the phone, listening to music or binge-watching shows.
Bed rotting: The latest viral trend on TikTok
Videos under #bedrotting already has 97 million views on TikTok, showing the sheer popularity of this subject. Videos made on this topic, mostly by Gen-Z, shows these youngsters indulging themselves in a variety of activities while staying put in bed.
As reported by Glam, Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a New York-based neuropsychologist, explained this trend saying,
[Bed rotting] has gained popularity among Generation Z, who may feel burnt out from work, school, family demands, or social pressures
In essence, while being in a society that promotes constant grind, with hustle culture championing productivity, achievement, being overworked etc., the bed rotting trend is an answer to all that, promoting rest, relaxation and for making the time for simple pleasures.
Should we be bed rotting for self care?
Dr Hafeez says about the value in bed rotting,
It can provide a sense of comfort, relaxation, and escape from the demands and pressures of daily life
That being said, the doctor also warns against the possible physical and mental downsides of the bed rotting trend. Spending too much time in bed can be harmful for the body, and could lead to 'potential health issues such as muscle atrophy, decreased cardiovascular fitness, and weight gain.'
It could also lead to people feeling isolated, and even depressed. As the doctor tells Glam,
While taking breaks and allowing oneself to rest is important, spending excessive time in bed can potentially contribute to feelings of isolation, lethargy, and even depression.
So it seems, as with most things in life, moderation is key. While it is important to rest, relax and indulge in the pleasures of doing nothing, it is also equally important to stay connected to your community, feel the sense of accomplishment and validation that work can bring, and ensure your home and life remain orderly.
Read more:
⋙ Scientists discover a new form of chronic illness and you may already suffer from it
⋙ A dentist reveals what you should do before going to bed, and it's not brushing your teeth (VIDEO)
⋙ This is why you should wear only clean socks to bed
Sources used:
Glam: 'Bed Rotting Is A Viral TikTok Trend For Self-Care, But Is It Legit? A Neuropsychologist Fills Us In'
Today: ' What is bed rotting, and is it good for you? What to know about the Gen Z trend'
