Mumbai: ‘Hurkle-durkling’ is a charming Scottish term that refers to the act of staying in bed after your alarm has gone off, essentially lounging or lingering in bed when you should be up and active. While it has its roots in Scotland dating back to the mid-1800s, the practice has recently gained popularity on social media as a way to encourage relaxation and normalise taking time to rest, without the guilt of constant productivity.
The latest 2025 travel trend, ‘hurkle-durkling,’ celebrates relaxation, urging travellers to embrace restful moments and slow down while on vacation in a world that constantly emphasises productivity and hustle and enjoy restful moments.
The rise of ‘hurkle-durkling’ has led to the increasing popularity of sleep retreats and winter getaways that allow travellers to slow down and recharge. These destinations are designed to help individuals disconnect, offering tranquil environments, wellness therapies, and luxurious settings that promote deep relaxation. As people recognise the need for rest, the demand for these soothing experiences is growing.
The 2025 Travel Trend: Hurkle-Durkling
‘Hurkle-durkling’ embodies the idea of taking time for yourself and unwinding without the pressure to be constantly active. It’s not about doing nothing in a negative sense, but rather making room for mindful, restorative downtime. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on mental health and well-being, offering a mindful approach to travel where the main goal is to recharge and de-stress.
Rise of sleep retreats
Sleep retreats are one of the most significant offshoots of the ‘hurkle-durkling’ trend. As people prioritise mental well-being, sleep retreats have become a highly sought-after experience. These retreats are designed to create the perfect environment for guests to disconnect from the demands of everyday life and focus on restorative sleep and relaxation.
Whether it’s staying at a luxurious hotel with expansive beds and soothing décor, attending a wellness retreat offering meditative relaxation, or booking a peaceful Airbnb rental surrounded by nature, the primary objective of these escapes is to nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
In a time where rest is often overlooked, sleep retreats emphasise the importance of a proper sleep cycle and self-care, offering therapies such as sound baths, sleep coaching, and relaxation-focused treatments.
Winter Getaways and Hurkle-Durkling Trend
Winter is the ideal time to indulge in the ‘hurkle-durkling’ trend, as colder weather naturally encourages cosying up and relaxing indoors. Hotels catering to this trend have adapted by offering packages that emphasise comfort and relaxation.
For example, some destinations provide guests with curated experiences like private libraries in suites, warm blankets, and fireplaces to create a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Whether it’s sipping hot cocoa by the fire, taking long afternoon naps, or simply enjoying the peace, these winter getaways let travellers fully embrace the concept of ‘hurkle-durkling.’ The ability to take it slow in a tranquil winter setting can be a rejuvenating experience, especially for those looking to escape the busyness of everyday life during the colder months.
Disconnecting from stress: Role of sleep retreats in mental health
The importance of disconnecting from daily stressors has never been clearer, and sleep retreats are becoming a vital tool for many. These retreats provide an opportunity to unplug from the noise of the modern world and focus on recovery.
Many retreats offer practices such as massages, which release tension in the body; guided meditations that calm the mind and encourage mindfulness; and sleep therapy, which aims to improve sleep quality through specialised techniques.
These restorative practices not only help travellers feel better physically but also improve mental health by reducing stress, enhancing emotional well-being, and promoting overall relaxation. By creating an environment that supports mental rejuvenation, sleep retreats are redefining what a vacation can be—less about exploration and more about healing.
Health benefits of Hurkle-Durkling
Advocates for ‘hurkle-durkling’ suggest that this unhurried approach to mornings and the art of doing nothing can have several positive impacts on one’s health:
- Strengthens immune system: Regular relaxation allows the body to recharge, which can contribute to a more robust immune system, making it easier for the body to ward off illness.
- Prevents long-term health issues: Chronic stress and a fast-paced lifestyle can contribute to various health issues over time. Taking time to relax in bed can reduce stress levels, potentially preventing long-term health problems such as cardiovascular disease or burnout.
Caution: Setting boundaries for effective relaxation
While ‘hurkle-durkling’ has its benefits, it’s important to use this trend mindfully. Experts caution that it should not become an excuse to avoid responsibilities or necessary conversations. Prolonged avoidance can lead to neglecting important tasks and relationships. Therefore, it’s essential to set boundaries:
- Time limits: Designate specific periods for relaxation, ensuring that you don’t lose track of time or miss out on important obligations.
- No interruptions: Create an environment where you can truly disconnect, turning off alarms, notifications, and distractions to fully unwind without interruptions.
By finding the right balance, ‘hurkle-durkling’ can become an effective tool for self-care, helping you recharge while maintaining productivity and responsibility.
As we move forward into 2025, the need for restorative vacations is more crucial than ever, and ‘hurkle-durkling’ is here to stay as the ultimate way to unwind. ‘Hurkle-durkling’ offers a mindful approach to travel—one that champions rest, self-care, and peace of mind.
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