372. Why You Can't Get Out of Bed: Understanding Nervous System Shutdown vs. Rest

About this episode

This episode explores the difference between genuine rest and nervous system shutdown, providing insights and tools for those struggling to get out of bed.

If you've been on TikTok lately, you've probably seen "bed rotting," people staying in bed all day, calling it self-care and radical rest. Gen Z is embracing it as a way to recover from burnout (and I’m finding it’s not just Gen Z’s who are doing this). But here's what's actually happening: your nervous system has gone into shutdown mode. Today we're talking about the difference between genuine rest and nervous system shutdown, why your body sometimes chooses immobilization over action, and what to do when you literally can't get yourself out of bed. You'll learn the science behind shutdown, how to tell if you're resting or avoiding, and practical tools to gently reactivate when you're stuck.   Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/bed-rotting-isnt-self-care   Download my free guide on nervous system regulation: https://abbymedcalf.com/nervous-system-check   Join my online community, One Love Collective, on Substack: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack .   You'll get... ✨ Early drops + ad-free podcast episodes ✨ Worksheets, journal prompts, downloads, and guided visualizations ✨ Community chats and live Q&A calls with Abby _________ &nbsp…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Abby Medcalf

Topics covered

• nervous system shutdown
• self-care
• burnout recovery
• rest vs. avoidance
• mental health

Keywords

• bed rotting
• nervous system
• self-care
• burnout
• mental health
• rest
• avoidance

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: One Love Collective

Products: Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier

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