Did you see that trending topic? Lots of foreign netizens said it was their “first time becoming Chinese,” and they very seriously started drinking hot water and soaking their feet.

I saw it. It’s actually pretty interesting. In the past they didn’t understand why Chinese people don’t drink iced water, but now they feel it’s a way of taking care of the body.

Exactly. Some people even “check in” by drinking hot water with goji berries. They say one cup of water helps them find their people—suddenly there’s this cultural resonance.

That shows cultural spread doesn’t have to rely on grand theories. Everyday habits can be the most powerful—like wearing slippers or eating congee, all those little details of life.

I also saw people learning Baduanjin and memorizing the Lunar New Year dates. Their follow-through is stronger than mine—I’m kind of impressed.

And most Chinese netizens welcomed it. Instead of accusing them of “cultural appropriation,” they felt understood and respected.

In the end, they’re not “pretending to be Chinese,” they’re looking for a slower lifestyle that takes better care of themselves.

Right. When culture truly goes global, it often happens like this—starting with a cup of hot water.