Bed rotting is a phrase from social media wherein a person stays in bed for an entire day without engaging in daily activities and chores. This concept emphasizes taking time to rest, recharge, and enjoy leisure activities like watching TV, reading, or scrolling through social media without the pressure to be productive.
On February 13, 2024, Dictionary.com announced that it added "bed rotting" along with more than 1,700 new or updated definitions to reflect recent online trends. It was defined as "the practice of spending many hours in bed during the day, often with snacks or an electronic device, as a voluntary retreat from activity or stress."[1]
Many who partake in bed rotting commonly spend their time on their smartphone or reading a book.[2] [3] [4] [5] [6] The behavior may have a negative impact in individuals experiencing depression along with being a symptom of depression. While some see it as a way to prioritize mental health and combat burnout, it’s important to balance it with other activities to maintain overall well-being. The trend has gained traction on social media, where users share their "bed rotting" experiences, celebrating the art of doing nothing in a cozy, comfortable setting.[7]
Some observers have interpreted this as a reaction to stress and or anxiety.[8] [9] [10] Lifehacker has described bed rotting as "an aspect of JOMO".[11]