As winter’s chill lingers into the second month of 2026, a growing number of individuals find themselves grappling with an all-too-familiar question: where did the upbeat energy of the New Year go? Gone are the ambitious resolutions and motivational mantras, replaced instead by a longing for the comfort of warm blankets and soft bedding. This phenomenon, colloquially dubbed “bed rotting,” is surging in popularity, prompting experts like Dr. Ritz Birah to investigate its underlying causes and implications.

Bed Rotting: A Modern Response to Winter Blues

Dr. Birah, a psychologist and sleep expert at Panda London, notes that mid-February has become one of the busiest periods in her clinic. “People arrive feeling flat, depleted, and quietly ashamed that they ‘just want to stay in bed’,” she explains. The hurried optimism of January, inspired by fresh starts and new commitments, has fizzled out, leaving behind a haze of lethargy. “With constant rain, heavy grey skies, and weeks of low light, the temptation to bed rot feels stronger than ever.”

The term ‘bed rotting’ refers to the act of spending prolonged periods in bed while awake, engaging in relaxing activities such as reading or daydreaming rather than succumbing to mindless scrolling on digital devices. Crucially, it’s not inherently linked to sleep deprivation or avoidance; rather, at its best, it serves as a sanctuary for restorative rest. “Our nervous system’s desire for respite during the harsh winter months is natural,” Dr. Birah says. “This pause is essential for mental recalibration and could be psychologically beneficial.”

Understanding the Benefits of Bed Rotting

Although societal narratives often frame leisure as a luxury, experts like Dr. Birah argue that intentional bed rotting can have profound benefits for both our mental health and overall wellness. “In a culture that glorifies productivity, spending extra time in bed can feel indulgent or lazy,” she notes. “But when approached healthily, it can be restorative and protective.” A recent study by the Sleep Research Institute showed that participants who incorporated deliberate rest into their routines reported a 40% improvement in overall mood compared to those who remained in a constant state of busyness.

This need for rest during a season of dormancy is similar to the natural world that lies outside our windows. Just as trees and plants demonstrate visible periods of rest before new life burgeons in the spring, humans, too, require this quiet phase. “The slower rhythm helps us regain energy and prepare for the vitality of the new season,” Dr. Birah explains.

However, the darker side of bed rotting arises when it leads to detrimental behaviors. Indulging in endless hours of mindless screens can exacerbate feelings of isolation and mental fatigue, ultimately counteracting the benefits of rest. “When you’re lying in bed endlessly scrolling, you’re simply adding to the chaos from the comfort of under your duvet,” Dr. Birah warns.

How to Bed Rot in a Healthy Way

If you’re considering indulging in some bed-based relaxation, Dr. Birah provides helpful guidelines for ensuring this practice remains beneficial:

• Set gentle boundaries: Decide in advance how long you’ll rest—perhaps an hour—to make it feel intentional.
• Ditch or limit the phone: Keep your phone out of reach and opt for low-stimulation alternatives, like books or music.
• Make it cosy, not chaotic: Clean bedding, soft lighting, and warmth help signal safety and relaxation to your nervous system.
• Stay lightly connected to the day: Open the curtains for natural light and maintain a consistent wake-up time, even when it’s grey outside.
• Check in with yourself: Reflect on whether you feel more restored afterward; if not, readjust your approach.
• Balance rest with gentle movement: A brisk walk or light stretches can complement your relaxation and improve sleep quality.

This thoughtful approach to bed rotting allows for a much-needed retreat from life’s external demands while also safeguarding one’s mental health. Moreover, experts suggest that when done intentionally, this act of rest transforms from mere laziness to a powerful tool for self-care.

As the cold grip of winter drags on, those considering a cozy escape may find solace in understanding that this desire for rest is not just acceptable but crucial. “If we grant ourselves the permission to slow down and recalibrate, we can ultimately emerge brighter and more energized for the forthcoming season,” Dr. Birah concludes.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.co.uk