The Comfort of Childhood: How Adults Find Solace in Abeibei
The familiar squeak of a plastic toy, the comforting scent of a plush bear, the gentle weight of a childhood memento – these are the things that many adults find solace in, tucked away in their everyday lives. In China, this phenomenonhas a name: Abeibei.
Abeibei, a term that translates roughly to baby things, refers to the objects that adultscarry with them, often hidden away in their backpacks or desk drawers, that evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia. These can range from childhood toys and stuffed animals to sentimental trinkets or even simple objects that hold a personal significance.
While the concept of Abeibei might seem peculiar, it’s a reflection of a universal human need for comfort and connection. In a world that can feel increasingly chaotic and demanding, adults often seek out these familiar objects as away to ground themselves and reconnect with a simpler time.
The trend has been particularly noticeable in China, where the fast-paced nature of modern life can be overwhelming. A recent article on 36Kr, a leading Chinese technology media platform, explored the phenomenon of Abeibei and its prevalence amongChinese adults. The article highlighted how these objects serve as a source of emotional support and a reminder of happier times.
Carrying a childhood toy or a trinket that reminds you of your childhood can be a way to cope with stress and anxiety, said Dr. Li Wei, a psychologist at Peking University. It’s a way to connect with a part of yourself that feels safe and secure.
The article also pointed out that Abeibei can also be a way for adults to express their individuality and connect with others who share similar experiences. In a society that often prioritizes conformity and success, these objects canserve as a reminder of the unique and personal aspects of one’s identity.
It’s a way to show the world that you’re not just a cog in the machine, said Zhang Wei, a 30-year-old software engineer who carries a small, worn-out teddy bearin his backpack. It’s a reminder that I have a past, a history, and a sense of self that goes beyond my job title or my social status.
The trend of Abeibei is not limited to China. Similar phenomena have been observed in other parts of the world, with adultsfinding comfort and connection in objects that evoke childhood memories. In Japan, for example, the concept of kawaii (cute) is deeply ingrained in popular culture, and adults often embrace this aesthetic through their fashion, accessories, and even their choice of Abeibei.
The Abeibei phenomenon highlightsthe enduring power of childhood memories and the need for comfort and connection in adulthood. It’s a reminder that even in a world that is constantly changing, there are still things that can ground us and remind us of who we are.
As the article on 36Kr concludes, Abeibeiis not just a trend; it’s a reflection of the human experience. It’s a testament to the fact that we all need something to hold onto, something to remind us of who we are and where we came from. And sometimes, that something is as simple as a childhood toy or a sentimental trinket.
【source】https://36kr.com/p/2922809794993029
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