A growing trend on TikTok is challenging the sacred morning coffee ritual, with users increasingly turning to hot water as a gentler alternative. This shift isn’t about a new wellness fad, but a revival of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices gaining traction online, primarily driven by content creators like @sherryxiiruii. But why is this happening, and what does it mean?
The Rise of TCM on TikTok
The trend originated in late 2023 when TikTok users started questioning the digestive impact of iced coffee and cold beverages. Creator @sherryxiiruii’s videos explaining TCM principles went viral, sparking a wave of individuals documenting their switch to hot water first thing in the morning. The movement extends beyond just water, with practices like eating congee for breakfast, wearing warm socks indoors, and prioritizing sleep gaining popularity.
This isn’t framed as a “trend” but as a return to ancient wisdom – a rejection of disruptive wellness hacks in favor of time-tested methods.
What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
TCM isn’t a quick fix; it’s a holistic medical system over 5,000 years old, built around balancing qi (life energy) and yin and yang. The core concept emphasizes the importance of harmony within the body, where factors like temperature and seasonality directly impact health.
In TCM, the digestive system is foundational. Cold beverages, particularly in the morning, are believed to disrupt this balance by slowing down digestion. Hot water, on the other hand, supports the spleen and stomach, promoting efficient energy production. Coffee isn’t forbidden but is viewed as drying and stimulating, best approached intentionally rather than as a dependency.
Beyond Hot Water: TCM Practices Gaining Traction
The hot water trend is just the tip of the iceberg. TikTok users are embracing other TCM practices:
- Congee: A rice porridge consumed for millennia, now seen as an easy-to-digest, comforting breakfast.
- Warm Clothing: Wearing slippers and thick socks is framed as essential for circulation, not just comfort.
- Sleep Prioritization: Earlier bedtimes are encouraged to align with natural rhythms.
- Seasonal Eating: Avoiding cold foods in winter to support digestive warmth.
These aren’t revolutionary ideas but rather a re-emphasis on practices that have existed for centuries.
Where to Learn More
If you’re curious about TCM, start by observing how your body responds to temperature and caffeine. Favor warm drinks and cooked foods, especially in colder months. For deeper understanding, seek a licensed TCM practitioner or explore resources like Heal Yourself with Traditional Chinese Medicine or The Five Elements Cookbook.
The trend’s impact extends beyond TikTok, with many questioning the long-term effects of modern routines on their bodies. The rise of TCM on social media suggests a growing desire for holistic well-being, rooted in ancient wisdom, rather than fleeting fads.
