If you thought ghosting, breadcrumbing, or cuffing were the only quirky terms in today’s dating dictionary, there’s a new one making waves — cobwebbing. Unlike ghosting, where you cut off contact, or breadcrumbing, where you string someone along, cobwebbing is about emotional housekeeping. It’s the process of sweeping away the “cobwebs” left behind by a past relationship — the old photos, messages, gifts, and yes, even that oversized hoodie still hanging in your closet.In our fast-paced swipe-and-scroll dating world, trends come and go faster than the relationships themselves. But cobwebbing stands out because it’s not a game or a tactic— it’s a healing practice. It’s about gently but deliberately making space for something new by clearing away the reminders of someone who’s no longer in your life.Why is it so hard to let go after a breakupBreakups are rarely clean. Even when you know ending the relationship was the right decision, you might still catch yourself scrolling through old texts, rewatching videos from happier days, or holding on to small keepsakes. These objects and memories, while comforting at times, can act like invisible cobwebs —keeping you stuck in yesterday’s story.Psychologists say nostalgia can be surprisingly sticky. It creates a false sense of connection that prevents you from truly moving on. That t-shirt in your drawer or the concert tickets tucked in your journal? They’re not just things; they’re emotional anchors. And while some people can box everything up the moment a breakup happens, others need more time before they’re ready to let go.How to start cobwebbing without forcing itCobwebbing isn’t about dumping every reminder of your ex into the trash overnight. It’s about being intentional. Start by setting clear emotional boundaries. Return personal belongings quickly to avoid unnecessary ties. Then, move at your own pace when it comes to sentimental items.For some, that might mean deleting an entire photo album or unfollowing an ex on social media. For others, it could be as simple as putting keepsakes in a sealed box and tucking it out of sight until you’re ready to decide. The goal isn’t speed—it’s progress. Small, consistent steps help you heal without overwhelming yourself.Why now is the perfect timeIt’s no coincidence cobwebbing is trending during the so-called “spooky season.” Just as we clear away old cobwebs in our homes, it’s the perfect moment to sweep away the ghosts of relationships past—especially before cuffing season arrives.So, the next time you feel tempted to re-read that midnight text from your ex, remember that every time you remember the past, you are wasting money in moving on inn life. Cobwebbing isn’t just tidying up—it’s making space for the love and life you truly deserve.
