The Rise of Bed-Rotting: Rest as a Wellness Movement
In a world obsessed with productivity and hustle culture, a new trend has emerged that puts rest and stillness at the center of wellness: bed-rotting. What started as a viral topic on TikTok and social media has now become a movement—one that challenges our ideas about self-care, burnout, and what it means to take a real break. But is bed-rotting truly restorative, or could it do more harm than good?
What is Bed-Rotting?
Bed-rotting is the act of purposefully spending extended periods in bed, not just for sleep, but for passive, low-effort activities like watching TV, scrolling on your phone, reading, or simply doing nothing at all. Unlike resting to recover from illness, it’s a conscious retreat from life’s demands—an opportunity to decompress and seek comfort in stillness.
This practice has become especially popular among teens and young adults, resonating with those who feel overwhelmed by constant pressure to be productive. As the term circulates on platforms like TikTok, bed-rotting is often framed as a form of self-care—a way to escape stress and reset after a hectic week.[1]
Why is Bed-Rotting Trending Now?
The popularity of bed-rotting is a response to modern life’s relentless pace. Many people, especially Gen Z, are pushing back against the expectation to always be “on”—to work longer hours, juggle multiple jobs, and maintain a constant online presence.[3] In this context, bed-rotting offers a rare permission to slow down, embrace laziness without guilt, and prioritize rest as a legitimate form of self-care.
Social media has helped normalize and even glamorize this behavior. Viral videos and hashtags encourage people to share their “bed-rotting” routines, making it easier for others to join in and feel less alone in their need to unplug.
The Benefits: Rest as Self-Care
In moderation, bed-rotting can have real benefits. Taking time to unwind in bed with a good book, a favorite show, or gentle activities can:
- Help relieve stress and anxiety
- Provide mental and physical recovery after a demanding day
- Allow for emotional processing and reflection
- Encourage people to break free from the guilt of “doing nothing”
This trend has also helped redefine self-care, giving people permission to rest in a way that feels natural and accessible—especially for those who might feel burnt out or overwhelmed by societal expectations.[3]
The Risks: When Rest Becomes Avoidance
While bed-rotting can be a valuable tool for relaxation, experts caution that too much time spent in bed can have negative consequences. Excessive bed-rotting may lead to:
- Increased feelings of isolation and loneliness
- Decreased physical activity and potential muscle deconditioning
- Worsened mood or mental health issues, particularly if it becomes a pattern of avoidance
- Poorer sleep quality due to blurred boundaries between sleep and wakefulness
According to psychologists, excessive inactivity is associated with a higher risk of mood disorders and can reinforce cycles of depression and anxiety. Staying in bed for extended periods may also disrupt sleep patterns, especially if the bed becomes associated with activities other than sleep.[2] [5]
Experts recommend striking a balance: using bed-rotting intentionally and mindfully, while also maintaining social connections and regular movement.[5]
How to Practice Mindful Bed-Rotting
If you want to try bed-rotting as a form of self-care, consider these tips:
- Set a time limit—enjoy a few hours or a weekend morning, but avoid turning bed-rotting into a daily routine.
- Choose activities that genuinely help you relax, such as reading, gentle stretching, or listening to soothing music.
- Stay connected—invite a loved one to join you, or take breaks to chat with friends and family.
- Listen to your body and mind. If you notice feelings of sadness, isolation, or loss of motivation, consider reaching out for support.
- Balance passive rest with active self-care—incorporate movement, sunlight, and social interaction into your day.
A Cultural Reframe: The Value of Rest
At its core, the rise of bed-rotting is a sign that more people are questioning the relentless drive for productivity. This movement invites us to reexamine the value of rest—not as laziness or weakness, but as a necessary and healthy part of a balanced life. When practiced mindfully, bed-rotting can be a gentle reminder that our worth isn’t defined by how much we do, but by how well we care for ourselves.
Watch: Is Bed Rotting Good for You?
For a quick expert take on the pros and cons of bed-rotting, check out this recent video: