3 Things That We Can Learn From China | ExpatWoman.com
 

3 Things That We Can Learn From China

Read on to learn some Chinese habits that we could benefit from.

Posted on

18 October 2017

Last updated on 19 January 2020
3 Things That We Can Learn From China
Moving to any place in the world offers the potential to start on a clean slate and start living and working in an entirely different way. While some people are looking forward to the chance to do this, others find difficulty in dealing with things such as culture shock and find it harder to adjust.

The key to any successful relocation is to take the time to observe and push yourself to learn from the environment you are in so that you become better equipped to living in a way that makes you happy and more at home. One of the countries that people tend to find the most difficulty with when it comes to relocating to is China. While their way of life and working may seem initially alien and entirely confusing, there are some great lessons that can be learnt from the way they do things. 


Here are some of the fantastic things we can learn from China and adopt in order to improve our everyday lives.

Exercise in the morning

Exercise in the morning

Something that people tend to pick up when visiting/ living in China is that fact that they are inspired by the fact that people participate in an exercise in the park. From Tai Chi, Qi Gong, sword dancing to aerobics and all manner of other activities, doing exercise communally in the morning is something that is very popular in China. The sense of community in this way of exercising is a great example of community spirit!

Sharing meals

In China, eating is a culture, with the country’s dining etiquette said to be drawn from the Zhou Dynasty in 1045-246BC. In China, food is not only a substance but also a science, art and social activity. The typical ambience of a Chinese restaurant or meal is a loud, talkative one, and generally, the louder and busier the restaurant, the better the food. In terms of dining etiquette, being particular about one’s appearance is particularly important, and you must consider bringing a small gift or wine. Generally, food is served in a number of small dishes in the centre of the table, and everybody helps themselves.
 
In terms of table manners, it is important to pick up your bowl, bend over the table and eat facing the bowl. It is also important to let the elders eat first, and consider elegance when eating. Social dining is hugely important in China, with large banquets being a common occurrence. This sense of familial spirit and community is important and is something we could learn from China.

You might also be interested in...


Not saying bless you

One of the most seemingly insignificant things that we can adopt from the Chinese way of life is the fact that they do not say ‘bless you’ when you sneeze. This habit originated from a time when people thought that when they sneezed that demons would enter their bodies- which of course is not something remains relevant in this day and age. In China, this social habit is not recognised which can offer some relief to those who feel pressure to say ‘bless you’ in countries such as the UK or America at a risk of sounding rude if they do not.
 
If you are looking to relocate to China then let us assist you in the process. Get in touch with our team today to find out more about the relocation process and learn a little more about the key things to consider prior to building a new life for yourself or your family in China.
Santa Fe Relocation
Sponsored by
Santa Fe Relocation
Santa Fe Relocation is a global mobility company specializing in managing and delivering high-quality relocation services. Our core competence is providing services that assist you and your family in relocating and settling in a new country.

Office 1201, Onyx Tower 1, The Greens, Dubai

 
 

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY