Stressed-Out Younger Generation Finds Relaxation Through Art Healing and Novelty Experiences
Sound Healing and Meditation
On a recent Sunday afternoon, 15 young people participated in a two-hour sound healing and meditation session in Shenzhen, China. Led by Kong Yi, they listened to the sounds of ancient musical instruments and were guided into a sleep-like state through meditation. According to Kong, the session is relaxing and decompressing, and participants wake up feeling refreshed. Through this form of healing, the potential for self-healing in each individual is brought out. Kong believes that the market for art healing is expanding in China, as people have growing stress relief and spiritual life needs.
Stress-Relieving Hobbies
A recent report shows that younger generations in China are increasingly concerned about their mental health. Their need to find entertainment away from work has led to the emergence of a variety of stress-relieving hobbies, such as tufting, murder mystery games, massage, and pet cats and dogs. Tufting, a technology of turning wool into blankets, has been a popular stress-reducing activity, especially among young handicraft lovers. Jiang Junqi, a freelance illustrator, started offering tufting workshops at her art studio after noticing the increasing demand. She believes that art and practicality-based activities like tufting can enrich people’s hearts and that art is not difficult.
Art Therapy
Remains a Niche Despite its growing popularity, art therapy remains a niche in China. However, Kong believes that the market is expanding, as people are becoming more open-minded and willing to try new things. The frequent quarantine and social distancing practices due to the COVID-19 epidemic have changed people’s ways of dealing with stress, making them more willing to try new forms of relaxation and inward exploration.
Conclusion
The younger generation in China is seeking new ways to cope with stress and anxiety. Through sound healing and meditation, Kong is helping people reach a deeper center and relax. Meanwhile, emerging stress-relieving hobbies, such as tufting, are providing people with a new form of entertainment away from work. Although art therapy remains a niche, its popularity is growing as people become more open-minded and willing to try new experiences.