Bed-Rotting: TikTok’s Latest Self-Care Sensation

Most people love a good rest in bed, but Gen Z is taking it to the next level with a new self-care trend called "bed rotting." Bed rotting is what it sounds like; all day in bed, doing whatever you want. This could include eating, binge-watching TV, reading, taking a nap, or simply relaxing in peace and quiet. Some people may also use bed rotting as an opportunity to do face and hair masks, skincare routines, or meditation. 

Essentially, it is the practice of spending hours in bed relaxing and doing whatever you want has become a popular self-care trend on TikTok. The hashtag #bedrotting has over 295.1 million views, as people share their reasons for loving this activity, often from the comfort of their own beds. The term gained popularity after TikToker @g0bra77y asked, "Who tf actually like rotting in her bed," before gesturing at herself. This video has over 1.4 million views and sparked a conversation about the benefits of bed rotting. 

Bed rotting can last anywhere from a few hours to a whole weekend, depending on how much you need to decompress from social situations. Some people use bed rotting to catch up on sleep, while others use it to read, watch TV, relax, and do nothing. While bed rotting may seem like a lazy way to spend the day, it can be a beneficial self-care practice. Taking time to rest and relax can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being.

While bed rotting can help clear one's mind, it can also have negative consequences. Experts warn that bed rotting can lead to isolation, ignoring one's feelings, and avoiding helpful self-care activities. Also, habitually lying in bed for long periods can indicate depression or increase the risk of developing it. Prolonged bed rotting can also lead to weight gain from being sedentary and binge-eating, and it can disrupt sleep schedules. "Our brains are wired to sleep in the dark and be alert in the light," psychiatrist Ryan Sultan told FOX News. "Lying in bed half-asleep during the day will worsen sleep regulation — and once it's dysregulated, it can be tough to fix."