While summer can be a time to make memories with friends and family through vacations, road trips, and the like, many consider it a time of rest and relaxation. For those who like to spend their summer doing nothing, the recent internet trend of “hurkle durkling” is perfect.
The Scottish term has gained popularity through social media like TikTok for its focus on lounging around and delaying productivity, typically associated with vacation time. While you could hurkle durkle any time of the year, it makes sense to follow this trend during the summertime. When paired with these recommendations, the hurkle durkle is a surefire way to have your best summer yet!
What does the phrase “hurkle durkle” mean?
According to an article from the New York Post, the phrase means “to lie in bed or lounge about when one should be up and about.” The article discusses how it is separate from bed rotting since the latter can occur at any point in the day, while hurkle durkling is reserved for the morning hours. So, essentially, you can follow the trend by hitting snooze on your alarm clock and staying put a little while longer when it’s time to get up and start the day.
The video below is one of the most popular that talks about the trend:
Based on the extensive audience support, it seems like lounging is a readily accepted practice for the most part.
The article goes on to explain how not only is the phrase fun to say; but there are also health benefits associated with hurkle durkling. Overall, the practice has been linked to better health and quality of life by ensuring the extra bit of rest that comes from lingering in bed in the morning.
Different perspectives on hurkle durkling
Support for the trend
A recent New York Times article discussed the act of hurkle durkling as a health trend for 2024, along with some other current Gen Z favorites. It appears that taking time for rest and relaxation is becoming more of a priority for 2024. Summer often provides this time, as well as an opportunity to adopt new wellness practices to improve health and well-being.
Questions and concerns
On the flip side, some are hesitant about consistently indulging in extra relaxation time. A Forbes article published in early July by Dr. Lance Eliot considers the benefits, risks, and other facets of the trend.
Eliot’s article offers an extensive look at different perspectives on the trend. He mentions that some might look down on delaying productivity based on preconceived notions, but the trend opens the door for more nuanced conversations, specifically about mental health.
Another unique perspective explored by Eliot is that of is Generative AI, since many people look at their phones while lying in bed:
An added twist is that in current times we can add generative AI into this equation. Modern-day generative AI and large language models (LLMs) are readily used while lounging around in bed. Does this then change the proposition underlying the considered negative perceptions of doing a hurkle-durkle? Should we reconsider the nature of hurkling-durkling?
Dr. Lance Eliot
Eliot’s article provides an excellent summary of the trend and connects it to other relevant topics. Based on his article, the trend seems to be more than just an internet phenomenon — it’s also important for one’s mental and physical health.
TikTok’s take on the trend
Along with the original video linked above, TikTok has dedicated several videos to the trend. Some videos focus more on the fun angle, while others delve into the various health benefits.
The video below used the same sound as the first video, but the user still made the trend unique to them:
Meanwhile, this video, posted by NatureMade, a vitamin brand, promoted hurkle durkling for its health benefits:
Additionally, this user’s video is an example of someone who was hurkle durkling regularly without even knowing it:
This user’s video refers to the trend as an “art” and thanked its creators:
And lastly, this user’s video showed that the trend is not limited to just humans–pets can join in as well!
Conclusion
Based on the consensus from these articles and TikTok videos, hurkle durkling is a fun and effective way to prioritize your health.
Of course, with any trend, it is important to consider what is best for your lifestyle and needs. Practicing in moderation is always a good idea. Relaxation is necessary, but there needs to be a balance between stepping back from your life and living it out.
The choice is yours, and you can decide if it fits into your daily life. While you can hurkle durkle in any season, summer is typically the most relaxing time. So for now, enjoy the rest of the summer, and hurkle durkle your way through!
