The Rise of 'Chinese Time': How Gen Z is Embracing Traditional Wellness
Across TikTok and internet memes, a fascinating cultural phenomenon is unfolding. Young people, particularly from Generation Z, are proudly declaring they are in a "very Chinese time in their lives." This trend, often labeled as "Chinamaxxing" or becoming "Chinese baddies," involves enthusiastically adopting traditional Chinese wellness and lifestyle habits.
From Viral Clips to Mainstream Adoption
The movement gained significant traction when content creator Sherry Zhu began sharing humorous yet insightful tips on how to "tap into your inner Chinese person." In one viral clip with over 6.2 million views, she advises viewers to stop walking barefoot at home and instead wear 拖鞋 (tuō xié), or house slippers, highlighting both cultural deference and hygiene.
"Now that you're Chinese you need to stop walking around your house barefoot, OK? 'Cause Chinese people, we don't do that," Zhu explains in the video.
Soon, celebrities and influencers joined the conversation. Comedian Jimmy O. Yang wore the viral "Chinese" Adidas jacket while singing the 1983 Mandopop hit "Yi Jian Mei." Meanwhile, Hong Kong-born etiquette expert Sara Jane Ho, star of Netflix's "Mind Your Manners," expressed delight at seeing Americans embrace drinking hot water for digestion, a practice she has long advocated.
Beyond Surface-Level Trends: A Deeper Cultural Shift
While the trend manifests in playful ways—drinking apple herbal tea, enjoying congee for breakfast, or exploring acupuncture—it points to a more profound shift in perception among younger Americans. At a time when anti-China rhetoric persists in some political circles, Gen Z is actively engaging with Chinese culture, technology, and products.
This generation is consuming Chinese pop culture, from retro Cantopop to well-crafted dramas on streaming platforms. They are also purchasing China-made toys like the plush doll Labubu, which helped Pop Mart achieve $1.8 billion in revenue last year.
As Tianyu Fang, a Ph.D. researcher at Harvard studying science and technology in China, noted to Wired, "When people say it's the Chinese century, part of that is this ironic defeat." For many young Americans, China's modern infrastructure and technological advancements appear appealing, especially when contrasted with perceived challenges in U.S. democratic norms and public systems.
Organic Growth and Social Media Dynamics
Content creators emphasize that this trend feels largely organic, even as some speculate about state-sponsored influence. RoRo, a first-generation Chinese-American creator from San Francisco, observed that anxiety over potential U.S. government actions against TikTok in early 2025 prompted many Americans to explore Chinese platforms like Xiaohongshu (RedNote).
"I actually believe that all generations are now subtly rebuking the anti-China rhetoric, thanks to social media," RoRo stated. She highlighted how travel content and personal experiences have reshaped perceptions, revealing a China that is modern, efficient, and welcoming—far from the negative stereotypes some grew up with.
Wellness as a Catalyst for Cultural Exchange
For many participants, the trend is deeply connected to health and wellness. Lulu Ge, a Chinese herbalist and founder of Elix Healing, initially felt skeptical about the "becoming Chinese" trend, given her experiences with bullying as an immigrant. However, she now sees genuine curiosity and openness.
In her TikTok videos, Ge offers practical advice: ditch iced drinks for warm teas, eat grounding foods like sweet potatoes and mushrooms, and incorporate blood and qi-nourishing herbs. She believes the trend reflects growing disenchantment with the American healthcare system and Western medicine.
"Americans are sicker than ever with poorer health outcomes than other developed nations of the world," Ge explained. "People are looking for simple everyday practices to take back their agency around their health and wellness."
Navigating Cultural Appreciation vs. Appropriation
As the trend flourishes, questions about cultural sensitivity arise. Felice Chan, a doctor of Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture, appreciates the mainstream interest but cautions against superficial engagement.
"It really comes down to the right way to engage with a culture so you're not appropriating," she advised. Chan suggests adding depth by referencing credible sources, such as Chinese medicine practitioners or local Chinese businesses, and ensuring accuracy, especially for health-related content.
RoRo also acknowledges mixed feelings, reflecting on the xenophobia and blame Chinese Americans faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. "While I'm leaning in to the trend and joining in on the fun, giving 'Chinese big sister advice' and traditional Chinese medicine tips, I can't help but also reflect on those dark times of pure chaos," she shared. "But six years later, I am moving forward with open arms and will continue to shed light on my culture."
Ultimately, the "Chinese time" trend represents more than a fleeting internet meme. It signifies a meaningful cultural exchange, driven by Gen Z's search for wellness, authenticity, and a broader critique of Western systems, all while navigating the fine line between appreciation and appropriation in our interconnected digital age.
