Editor's note:<\/strong> Yuan Jiayi is a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN. The article reflects the author's views and not necessarily those of CGTN.<\/i><\/p>
What began as niche curiosity has become a cultural tidal wave in early 2026, with the #BecomingChinese movement reshaping global wellness habits. Young people from Berlin to Buenos Aires now drink warm water religiously, steam apples for breakfast, and layer thermal leggings – all part of what's being called the "China Manual" phenomenon.<\/p>
This organic cultural shift presents a paradox for Western media outlets. While some publications recently dismissed Chinese social media discussions about Western social issues as "obsession," they now confront millions actively adopting Chinese lifestyle practices through platforms like TikTok and Xiaohongshu.<\/p>
The trend's roots trace back to 2025's landmark "cyber reconciliation," when proposed U.S. restrictions on TikTok drove American users to Chinese platforms. This unexpected digital migration fostered unprecedented peer-to-peer exchanges about healthcare costs, education systems, and urban infrastructure – conversations that continue shaping global perceptions in 2026.<\/p>
Three key factors drive the China Manual's appeal:<\/p>
Direct access to China's social infrastructure through unfiltered digital content<\/li>
Growing appreciation for systems ensuring education access and poverty reduction<\/li>
Cross-platform discussions revealing economic realities across societies<\/li><\/ul>
As thermal underwear sales spike in Europe and goji berries sell out in U.S. health stores, the movement raises fundamental questions about global cultural exchange in the digital age – and what constitutes "modern living" in 2026.<\/p>
