Why Young People Are Obsessed with Baduanjin—and Can It Really Boost Hair Growth?
Do you think “wellness routines” are only for older people?
In reality, today’s younger generation is putting even more effort into health and self-care than ever before.
From mugwort foot soaks and acupuncture to massage therapy and various dietary supplements—nothing is left unexplored.
As the saying goes:
“Life isn’t just about goji berries in your cup, but also Chinese yam in your meals and a relaxing foot bath before bed.”
According to the 2021 National Health Insight Report released by DingXiang Doctor, people born in the ’90s, ’95s, and 2000s tend to rate their health—and expectations for it—lower than older generations.
Just look at the elderly exercising energetically in parks, then compare that to young people getting out of breath after climbing a few flights of stairs.
No wonder many young people joke:
- “I’m not even old yet, but my body already is.”
- “Twenty years old, sixty-year-old body.”
- “Success hasn’t come yet, but aging has.”
The Rise of Baduanjin
Recently, Baduanjin has gone viral.
Originating in the Northern Song Dynasty, it has a history of over 800 years. It is a complete and independent system of traditional Chinese fitness exercises.
The name “Baduanjin” translates roughly to “Eight Pieces of Brocade,” symbolizing something colorful, elegant, and refined.
Each session consists of eight movements—hence the name. The exercises are smooth, graceful, and carefully structured, offering both aesthetic appeal and health benefits.
In modern times, while some movements and names have been slightly adapted, the essence remains the same.
Why Is It So Popular Today?
Baduanjin has become especially popular among young people for several reasons:
- No equipment required
- No location limitations
- Easy to learn
- Time-efficient
- Noticeable health benefits
It can help underweight individuals build strength and assist those who are overweight in losing weight.
Because of this, many jokingly call it “the first elderly-style group exercise for young people.” Social media is now full of people sharing their daily practice routines.
Health Benefits of Baduanjin
Baduanjin is more than just gentle exercise—it offers a wide range of physical benefits:
- Improves flexibility and mobility
- Enhances breathing efficiency
- Promotes smoother energy (Qi) flow
- Boosts blood circulation
- Strengthens overall physical fitness
- Enhances immune function
Perhaps most importantly, it helps improve oxygen circulation and metabolic function, which may contribute to slowing down the aging process.
Many practitioners also report:
- More regular sleep patterns
- Better mood
- Increased daily energy
Can It Really Help Hair Growth?
Interestingly, some people claim that practicing Baduanjin has improved their hair condition.
For example, one blogger shared that after three months of practice, their hair became noticeably thicker.
Previously, their hair part was wide and sparse—but over time, it appeared denser, with overall hair volume seemingly doubling.
Others have reported similar experiences, such as:
- Increased baby hairs along the hairline
- Fuller-looking hair after about a month of practice
Of course, some of these results may also be influenced by other factors, such as diet (e.g., fish oil supplements). Still, even a small possibility is enough to motivate people to give it a try.
What’s the Explanation?
Some users suggest that Baduanjin helps promote hair growth by improving blood and energy circulation. Better circulation may support healthier hair follicles.
However, it’s important to note that for genetic hair loss, the effects may be limited.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not it significantly boosts hair growth, Baduanjin is still a highly beneficial wellness practice worth trying.
At the very least, it helps improve overall health—and that alone is a valuable outcome.
So why not start today?
And hopefully, along the way, you might just become a true “hair volume champion.”