What is the 'bed rotting' trend on TikTok? Here's your guide to the relatable, horizontal self-care movement

The 'bed rotting' trend is the latest self-care phenomenon sweeping TikTok and while it might have a questionable name, it's actually nothing new and something we're all probably very familiar with.

Hands up if you've been quote-on-quote 'bed rotting' since before it was cool? Oh, our hands are way up there but much like 'Boyfriend air', 'Rat Girl' summer and the 'Mascara' trend, it's having a major moment over on TikTok.

If you still have no idea what we're talking about, 'bed rotting' is the latest term to enter the wellness zeitgeist and while it sounds kinda, well gross—it's a preferred form of self-care for many. But what does this trend actually entail and is it good for us? Here's a guide to the trend and how to make the most of those occasional stress decomposition days...

What is bed rotting?

To put it simply, bed rotting refers to those days when you stay cocooned in the warmth and safety of your bed and recuperate, recharge and destress from whatever has been overwhelming you—usually equipped with some choc, a cup of tea and Netflix. It can also refer to when you climb into bed to escape and procrastinate any pressing concerns.

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While most of us probably never knew it had a name, or warranted one—the realm of TikTok has coined it 'bed rotting', with many sharing their horizontal rituals and why it's their preferred method of 'self-care.'

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Sometimes climbing into bed to be alone and cozy is all we want, especially if you're someone who gets over-stimulated and on the whole, it's okay and a great way to unwind. That being said, there are a few downsides to be aware of—if you're a regular bed rotter...

Is 'Bed rotting' bad for you?

While the idea of bed rotting does indeed sound ever-so cozy, nutrition, wellness and fitness expert and founder of MADE, Penny Weston warns that it's not the healthiest form of self-care.

She says: "Self-care is really important, but for it to be beneficial it must be done in the right ways. I think spending the odd day in bed is ok if that is what your body needs, but I wouldn't recommend it as a regular thing. 

"Staying in bed for prolonged periods of time can be bad for your mental health, worsening symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. Lying down for too long can actually increase the risk of heart diseases, diabetes and some cancers", she then adds, "There are definitely more beneficial ways to go about self-care, such as exercising, meditation or yoga."

If you find you're in a bit of a bed rotting rut, Weston says: "If you’re experiencing an energy slump then getting some exercise, even a short burst, can be a great way to get the body and mind feeling more energized. 

"When we exercise the body releases chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine which boost our sense of well-being and suppress hormones that cause anxiety. So you’ll always finish a workout with that buzz and energy boost which is guaranteed to lift the mood. A workout doesn't have to be running for hours or lifting huge weights at a gym; however, the key is experimenting until you find something you enjoy and is a suitable level for you."

Weston also notes that it's important to have a break from the room that you sleep in, as it can impact your sleep pattern.  To combat this, she says to create a 'bedtime routine', for instance having a "warm bath and a meditation practice, avoiding screens and stimulants in the hours before bedtime and ensuring your bedroom is quiet, dark and around 18°C will all help."

MIL's edit of 'bed rot' essentials

For those bed rot days—when the pull to climb under the sheets is just too strong (we relate, hard)—we've found you a few little staples to make your bed sesh the best it can be...