In China, a unique trend is gaining traction among young adults facing economic uncertainty: raising bricks. This unconventional hobby offers a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative to traditional pets or children, providing companionship without the financial or emotional demands.
With the job market stagnant and nearly 20% of 16-24-year-olds unemployed, many young Chinese are turning away from societal expectations like long working hours and starting families. Instead, they are embracing a lifestyle known as 'lying flat, ' which emphasizes minimal effort and stress. Raising bricks fits perfectly into this ethos, requiring little more than occasional watering to encourage moss growth.
On social media platforms like Weibo and Xiaohongshu, the trend has sparked significant interest. A related hashtag has garnered over 5 million views on Weibo, while users on Xiaohongshu share images of their moss-covered bricks. One user described the hobby as providing a sense of accomplishment akin to completing a long-term project, while another noted the absence of pressure to meet expectations or compare progress with others.
The phenomenon has been described as offering a sense of certainty without the need for reciprocal affection. As one brick enthusiast put it, a brick offers a grounded sense of companionship that many find lacking in personal relationships.
Despite its popularity, the trend has raised health concerns. Chinese media have reported that cultivating moss can lead to mould growth, causing symptoms like itchy eyes and runny noses among some participants. Xuedong Li, a retired moss expert from Beijing's Capital Normal University, advises enthusiasts to handle their bricks with care. He recommends using disposable gloves and masks to minimize exposure to spores and skin contact.
China's declining birthrate, which hit a record low last year, and the competitive educational environment have contributed to this shift in lifestyle choices. Young people, disillusioned by the pressures of traditional paths, are seeking alternative ways to find meaning and satisfaction in their lives. Raising bricks, with its simplicity and minimal demands, offers a novel solution to these challenges.
As this trend continues to grow, it reflects broader societal changes in China. Young adults are increasingly prioritizing personal well-being over conventional success metrics, opting for hobbies that align with their desire for a less stressful existence. While raising bricks may seem bizarre to some, for many, it represents a small yet significant rebellion against the pressures of modern life.
