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The “Almost Forgot That This Is The Whole Point” TikTok Trend Is All About Grounding Yourself

You know when you’re having one of those days — your group project is falling apart, your laptop dies mid-paper, and you’re running on only caffeine — and all you want is to step outside, breathe for a second, and just be? Well, that’s the point, isn’t it? It’s all about those simple, down-to-earth (literally) moments. That’s where the “almost forgot that this is the whole point” TikTok trend comes in, and honestly, it’s the serotonin boost we didn’t know we needed.

This trend is a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with what really matters. It’s all over your For You Page: girls barefoot in the grass, sunlight dancing through trees, impromptu picnics, bike rides, and golden-hour walks with friends. These short, aesthetic clips are usually paired with Matt Berry’s “Take My Hand” and captions like “almost forgot that this is the whole point,” feel like a warm hug from the universe. They remind us that peace isn’t always found in a perfectly planned life or a straight-A report card. Sometimes, it’s found in bare feet on cool dirt, belly laughs under open skies, and just being.

It’s not about escapism — it’s about remembering what grounds us. Nature, friendship, quiet joy. And yeah, we almost forgot… but thank goodness TikTok didn’t.

What does “This is the whole point” really mean?

The “almost forgot that this is the point” TikTok trend is more than just pretty nature shots or dreamy soundtracks — it’s a reminder to slow down and reconnect. For so many of us juggling school, social lives, and endless to-do lists, this trend taps into something deeper: the quiet, grounding moments that remind us why we’re here. 

Whether it’s hiking with friends, watching a sunset after class, or just breathing in fresh air between study sessions, this is the point. It’s about embracing simplicity and finding peace in the chaos. It’s self-care, it’s mindfulness, and honestly, it’s the kind of soul reset we didn’t know we needed but definitely do.

Where are some of the best places to ground yourself?

Some of the best places to ground yourself are often right outside your dorm or a short walk from campus. Think the campus quad at golden hour, that quiet bench under your favorite tree, or the local park where you can sit with a journal or just people-watch. If you’re near a beach, lake, or hiking trail — even better. Coffee shop patios, botanical gardens, or rooftops with a view can be surprisingly peaceful too. The goal isn’t to go far, it’s to go inward. Wherever you feel the sun on your face, the breeze in your hair, and a moment of calm in your chest.

Do these recollections actually work?

Much like the Blue Mind Theory or Hot Girl Walks, these moments really do work. There’s actual science behind how being in nature — even just for twenty minutes — can lower cortisol levels, boost your mood, and help you feel more present. But even beyond the science, there’s something emotionally powerful about pressing pause. In a world that praises hustle culture and constant achievement, this mental health trend reminds you that you’re allowed to take it all in and just live. 

Without a doubt, these short escapes into beauty and presence offer a sense of relief. They aren’t about performance or perfection. No one’s grading your walk under the stars or your spontaneous picnic with friends. These are the moments where you remember who you are without the pressure. And when you post it — bare feet in the grass, laughter with your roommate, a blurry sunset shot — it’s like sharing a piece of that peace, inviting others to slow down with you.

So yeah, maybe it’s just a few seconds on TikTok. But in a chaotic college world, sometimes that’s all it takes to spark a deep breath, a little smile, or a reminder that life isn’t just deadlines and due dates. It’s barefoot joy, shared snacks, and sunlit moments. Its softness in the middle of stress. And if that’s not the point… what is?

Lily Brown

Emerson '25

Lily Brown is a National Writer for Her Campus Media, where she contributes to the Culture, Style, and Wellness verticals. Her work covers a wide range of topics, including Beauty, Decor, Digital, Entertainment, Experiences, Fashion, Mental Health, and Sex + Relationships.

Beyond Her Campus, Lily is a recent graduate of Emerson College in Boston, MA, where she studied Journalism and Publishing. During her time there, she served as Managing Editor of YourMagazine, an on-campus lifestyle publication that covers everything from style and romance to music, pop culture, personal identity, and college life. Her editorial work has also appeared in FLAUNT Magazine.

In her free time, Lily (maybe) spends a little too much time binge-watching her favorite shows and hanging out with family and friends. She also enjoys creative writing, exploring new destinations, and blasting Harry Styles, Lady Gaga, Tyler, the Creator, and Sabrina Carpenter on Spotify.