Instagram’s “Something to Take the Edge Off” — A Pure Vibe

Every other day, a new trend emerges in the world of Instagram. Sometimes it’s dance challenges, sometimes cooking videos, and sometimes travelogues. But for the past few weeks, a strange but fascinating trend has been taking hold of users—it’s called “Something to Take the Edge Off.”

The trend is seemingly simple. Users pretend to make smoke rings by holding a cigarette or cigarette-like object in one hand, and in the other hand, they hold their “guilty pleasure”—that is, something that they enjoy but feel a little embarrassed about doing or eating. This guilty pleasure is sometimes chocolate, sometimes a packet of chips, sometimes a glass of an expensive drink, or even a hobby that is not much of a point of pride in ordinary life.

The magic of this vibe

The first thing that strikes the viewer of these reels on Instagram is their atmosphere. Dim lighting, blurred backgrounds, slow-motion footage, and a sad but sweet tune in the background. When it all comes together, the video is not just a clip but turns into a feeling—a feeling that is a combination of fatigue, boredom, and inner peace.

People often say that this trend creates a kind of "stopping yourself for a moment and breathing" feeling. Perhaps that is why it is also named "Something to Take the Edge Off", that is, an excuse to lighten the pressure of life a little.

Where did it start?

According to experts on social media, this trend was first started by a few lifestyle bloggers in Europe. A well-known fashion influencer created a reel in which she sat on an old wooden chair, acting like a smoker, and placed a half-open chocolate bar in front of her. A slow jazz tune played in the background.

The video went so viral that within a few days, thousands of users started copying it. But everyone did it in their own way—some with coffee, some with a burger, and some even with an old notebook or book.

Where is the real attraction?

If you think about it, the attraction of this trend is only in its "vibe." It's not a challenge, nor does it require any difficult movements. All you have to do is tell a story—and that too without words.

This story is usually about exhaustion and being connected to yourself. It's a way of capturing that moment when you take a break from the hustle and bustle of life to do something that brings you joy, no matter how small or ordinary.

Psychological aspects

Psychologists say that such trends actually fulfill people's unconscious needs. In today's fast-paced era, people often feel tired and confused. Social media becomes a means of creating moments where they can feel important, attractive, and unique.

"Something to Take the Edge Off" is actually a kind of self-permission exercise—that is, saying that yes, I'm tired, and I'm taking some time for myself.

There is criticism

Of course, like every trend, it has been criticized. Some people say that it romanticizes the habit of smoking, which can have a negative impact on young people. Some critics also believe that it hides the real difficulties of life and presents an artificial beauty, which is far from reality.

But supporters say that this is just a symbolic style, and most people are not using real cigarettes or drugs—it is just an artistic gesture, just like in the movies.

Creative examples from users

You’ll find countless variations of this trend on Instagram.

A girl watches the rain by the window, a mug of coffee in one hand, and a book in the other.

A young man sits on the beach watching the sunset, ice cream in one hand, and a slight smile in slow motion.

An artist sits in front of his painting, holding a brush, and a chocolate in the other hand.

All of these videos seem to be immersed in the same atmosphere—sad but soothing, silent but speaking.

Brand interest

Whenever a trend takes hold on social media, brands immediately incorporate it into their marketing plans. Several beverage companies and chocolate brands have used this trend in their advertisements. They know that this vibe can affect consumers of all ages, not just the young.

What’s next?

Social media trends tend to have short lifespans. A new trend takes a few weeks or months to emerge. But there are some trends that aren’t just a passing fad, they become an art style. “Something to Take the Edge Off” seems to be one of them.

It may not be as common in a few months, but its impact on Instagram content will remain—the lighting, music, and slow-motion shots will continue to be seen in the future.

The final lesson:

This trend reminds us that in the hustle and bustle of life, it’s important to pause, breathe, and immerse ourselves in our favorite pastimes. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, an old book, or raindrops—sometimes these little moments are what refresh us.

If you’d like, I can also come up with a fully creative idea for a cover image to accompany this story to convey the full vibe. Would you like me to create that too?