The rise of Gen Z's interest in Chinese medicine is a fascinating phenomenon, especially considering the current state of trust in the US healthcare system. It's a bold move, a rebellion of sorts, and one that has sparked curiosity and controversy alike.
Imagine, if you will, a world where drinking ice water is frowned upon, and hot water is the new cool. That's the world according to Sherry Zhu, a Chinese American creator, who has millions of followers hanging on her every word. But here's where it gets interesting - Zhu's advice isn't just about hot vs cold water; it's a window into the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a holistic approach to health that has stood the test of time.
TCM creators, both of Chinese descent and beyond, are sharing their unique hacks and routines. From keeping your feet warm to promote better periods, to brewing teas with goji berries and ginger for overall wellness, these practices are gaining traction. And let's not forget the importance of movement - promoting the flow of 'qi', or internal energy, is a key aspect of TCM. It's like a secret code, a language of health that is being decoded and embraced by a new generation.
But why the sudden fascination with 'becoming Chinese' or embracing a 'very Chinese time' in one's life? It's a trend dubbed 'Chinamaxxing', a movement started by Americans, sharing memes and videos in praise of Chinese culture. And it's not just about the memes; it's a response to a complex geopolitical landscape. With the US looking feeble in comparison to China, young Americans are turning to alternative reference points, seeking a sense of subversiveness and fascination with a culture that was once targeted by their own political leaders.
And this is the part most people miss - Chinamaxxing is also a reaction to a plummeting trust in the US healthcare system. With prominent figures like RFK Jr. casting doubt on conventional medicine, the stage is set for alternative remedies to thrive. Chinese medicine, with its holistic approach, seems less 'woo-woo' and more appealing in this context.
Lulu Ge, founder of Elix, a wellness brand using traditional Chinese herbs, has seen a surge in engagement. Her videos on avoiding ice drinks and eating warm foods have resonated with a new audience. Ge believes Americans are frustrated with the specialization of their healthcare system, and Chinese medicine offers a multi-symptomatic approach that resonates with those suffering from chronic conditions.
But promoting TCM is not just a trend; it's part of China's soft power strategy. The Chinese government has actively introduced TCM to the world, advising its use in treating Covid-19 and even sending TCM doctors and supplies to affected countries. By 2022, the global TCM market was valued at a staggering $400 billion.
TCM's presence in America has grown, from beauty creators using gua sha stones to promote lymphatic drainage, to Covid longhaulers seeking acupuncture. Even niche trends like 'Chinese face mapping' have gained traction, with users asking ChatGPT to offer TCM-inspired health assessments. And let's not forget the practical benefits - practices like going to sleep before 11 pm fit perfectly into the popular 'get ready with me' and 'bedtime routine' formats on social media.
'When someone adopts qigong, acupuncture, or gua sha, they are building a habit, and habits change how foreignness feels,' says Shaoyu Yuan, a scholar of international relations. 'It doesn't mean they are switching sides; they can still find Chinese wellness practices useful or interesting, even if they are skeptical of Chinese state policies.'
However, this online obsession with China has left some Asian American creators and writers feeling uneasy, especially considering the harassment and violence faced by people of Asian descent during the Covid era. Others have called out non-Asian creators for assuming authority on Chinese practices, a privilege that allows them to 'try on someone else's identity' without facing the consequences.
'There's a reason why your mom told you to wear slippers in the house,' says Dr. Felice Chan, an acupuncturist and co-founder of Moonbow. 'If our feet are cold, our womb is cold, and we have bad period cramps, there's a medicine tied to it. But there's almost a lapse in communication or understanding of why our parents told us.'
Despite the controversies, the Chinamaxxing trend continues to thrive, buoyed by the lunar new year and an influx of content about bringing good fortune. The spiritual and poetic nature of TCM, with its rich heritage and symbology, offers a return to humanness in a world increasingly dominated by AI and automated systems.
As one X user put it, Americans are 'globalismmaxxing' - seeking cross-cultural connections, even if it's just through a 10-second meme. So, what do you think? Is Chinamaxxing a harmless trend or a deeper reflection of our desire for community and belonging? The floor is open for discussion.
