Crazy at Work, Healing After Hours: Young People Fuel a New BusinessBoom
BEIJING – In the fast-paced, high-pressure world of modern work, a new trend has emerged: young professionals are experiencing burnout and stress at unprecedented levels, leading to a surge in demand for healing services outside of work. This phenomenon, dubbed crazy at work, healing after hours, is not only a reflection of the anxieties of a generation, butalso a burgeoning business opportunity.
From meditation apps and online yoga classes to aromatherapy workshops and escape rooms, the healing industry is booming, catering to the needs of young professionals seeking solace and rejuvenation after a long day at the office.This trend is particularly pronounced in China, where the 996 work culture – working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week – has become synonymous with the relentless pursuit of success.
I feel likeI’m constantly on edge, always checking my phone and emails, even when I’m supposed to be relaxing, said Li Wei, a 28-year-old marketing manager in Beijing. I started taking yoga classes a few months ago, and it’s been a lifesaver. It helpsme to de-stress and reconnect with myself.
Li Wei’s experience is not unique. According to a recent survey by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, over 70% of young professionals in China report feeling stressed and burnt out at work. This stress is often compounded by societal pressures to succeed and achievefinancial stability, leading to a sense of constant anxiety and exhaustion.
The healing industry is responding to this growing need by offering a wide range of services, from traditional practices like acupuncture and herbal medicine to more modern approaches like mindfulness meditation and virtual reality therapy. These services are often marketed as a way to improve mentaland physical well-being, reduce stress, and enhance productivity.
The demand for our services has exploded in the past few years, said Zhang Lei, founder of a meditation app called Mindful Moments. Young people are increasingly aware of the importance of mental health, and they are actively seeking ways to managestress and improve their overall well-being.
The rise of the healing industry is also being driven by a growing awareness of mental health issues in China. For years, mental health was a taboo subject, but in recent years, there has been a shift in attitudes, with more people willing to seek help formental health problems.
This shift in attitudes is reflected in the increasing number of mental health professionals and services available in China. In 2019, the Chinese government launched a national mental health plan, aiming to improve access to mental health services and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
However, despite thesepositive developments, there are still challenges to overcome. Mental health services in China remain relatively limited, and access to affordable and effective treatment is often difficult. Furthermore, the stigma associated with mental illness persists, preventing many people from seeking help.
The healing industry, while offering a valuable service, is not a panacea for the problems facing young professionals. It is important to address the underlying causes of stress and burnout, such as excessive work hours, unrealistic expectations, and a lack of work-life balance.
Ultimately, the crazy at work, healing after hours trend highlights the need for a more holistic approach to well-being. It is not enough to simply offer temporary relief from stress; we need to create a work environment that supports mental health and fosters a sense of balance and fulfillment. This requires a collective effort from individuals, employers, and policymakers alike.
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