Why everyone’s suddenly obsessed with ‘becoming Chinese’

Ask anyone who grew up in an Asian household, and you’ll know that many daily rituals—drinking herbal teas, wearing indoor slippers, practising tai chi or qigong, meditating, or starting the day with warm water—are deeply ingrained.

Today, these small habits are gaining new attention on social media. Creators are “becoming Chinese,” sharing routines that include slippers indoors, lymph-activating exercises, morning warm water, and herbal teas.

Many of these rituals are rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the philosophy of Yang Sheng, or nourishing your body from within. Dr. Jiao, TCM physician at Yong Kang TCM Clinic explains:

“The core philosophy of TCM aesthetics is that ‘internal conditions inevitably manifest externally’ (有诸内必形诸外)… Healthy, radiant skin is the natural result of abundant Qi and Blood and harmonious internal organs, rather than something achieved merely by covering imperfections.”

If you’re curious about incorporating these wellness practices into your own routine, here are some common habits social media creators have embraced:

Start the day with warm water: Kickstarts digestion and gently wakes up the body.

Sip herbal teas: From soothing chrysanthemum to blood-nourishing angelica, teas are sipped throughout the day.

Incorporate herbs to heal the skin:

1. Brightening group

The “Three Whites” (Bai Zhi, Bai Zhu, Bai Fu Ling): Traditionally considered essential for whitening and smoothing the skin. Modern research shows they can inhibit tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin production while providing antioxidant benefits.

Pearl Powder (Zhen Zhu): Rich in amino acids and trace elements; promotes collagen synthesis. Internally, it calms the spirit; externally, it hydrates and brightens the complexion.

2. Anti-inflammatory and acne-fighting group

Coptis (Huang Lian), Honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua), Forsythia (Lian Qiao): Powerful agents for clearing heat and detoxifying. Their broad-spectrum antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make them highly effective for inflammatory acne caused by excess heat in the Lung and Stomach.

3. Circulation and skin renewal group

Angelica Sinensis (Dang Gui), Peach Kernel (Tao Ren), Safflower (Hong Hua): Invigorate blood circulation and nourish the blood. By improving microcirculation, they bring a natural rosy glow from within and help fade acne marks and hyperpigmentation.

4. Yin-nourishing and hydrating group

Lily Bulb (Bai He), Ophiopogon (Mai Dong), Solomon’s Seal (Yu Zhu): Nourish Yin and generate body fluids. They act as a “deep water reservoir” for the skin, effectively addressing dryness, flakiness, and fine lines.

Wear indoor slippers: Keeps feet warm and supports circulation.

Gentle movement: Tai chi, qigong, or small lymph-activating exercises help stimulate energy flow.

Facial Rituals: Gua Sha, light facial massage, or cupping promotes circulation and reduces puffiness.

Meditation or mindful breathing: Helps manage stress and supports overall balance.

Dietary Awareness: Eating with the seasons and focusing on balanced, nourishing meals.