Buzz
Photo: FreshSplash/Getty ImagesThe phrase "rotting in bed" is all the rage right now—a Gen Z expression for lazily lounging in bed all day. Sadly, it doesn’t exactly carry a positive vibe (which might be the point). If this activity makes you feel a bit guilty, consider using the lighter, more playful term "hurkle-durkle" instead on days when you need to take it slow and recharge.
To hurkle-durkle means spending a significant amount of time in bed—but not for sleep. To dive deeper into this concept, we reached out to author and self-care expert Katherine May to explore the benefits of this practice and how to know when a hurkle-durkle session might be going too far.
What Does Hurkle-Durkle Mean?
Hurkle-durkle refers to staying in bed past the point when you should have gotten up. This term, which originated in Scotland, first appeared in an 1808 edition of An Etymological Dictionary of the Scottish Language. While "hurkle" means to curl up or draw the body together, the meaning of "durkle" and their combined use remain unclear. Despite its resurgence on social media, the term isn't commonly used in everyday language.
When Is It Appropriate to Hurkle-Durkle?
Katherine May has written extensively about navigating tough transitions in her book, Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times. She reminds us that no one escapes the challenging seasons of life. During these times, it's not just okay to slow down, it's essential as an act of self-care. It's also completely acceptable to take refuge in your bed when life gets too overwhelming.
"We don't always get the chance, but spending time in bed is a beautiful way to ease into the day, instead of rushing through it. Although it may be associated with laziness or lack of productivity, we must learn to appreciate rest and recovery in our busy lives," May says.
To fully embrace hurkle-durkling, treat these moments as an opportunity to recharge. "By retreating to our cozy beds, we can catch up on sleep, read, watch TV, or spend quality time with a loved one," says May. "Think of it as a leisurely activity that we can opt into whenever we feel like it."
Even those who are usually quick to jump out of bed in the morning could find value in this activity. For example, insist on hurkle-durkle when you need a sick day. "It’s something we often avoid when we’re unwell, but the recovery benefits are significant," says May. "It’s also an excellent way for new mothers to bond with their babies."
"There’s a big difference between choosing to stay in bed and being unable to get out of bed; the latter is a clear sign you might need additional support," warns May. If you’re struggling to get up or carry out daily tasks, reach out to your loved ones or a mental health professional for guidance.
