There are days when nobody can comprehend a word we speak in Mandarin, the world is chaotic, and it feels like the universe is trying to take you down. That’s what my friends and I refer to as having “China day,” the day that living in China is incredibly frustrating, and all you would like to accomplish is take a plane to another country. Although living and working in China is thrilling and enjoyable, there are many challenges that you will face on a day-to-day basis that you might not have thought of when you were back home.
Many things can be challenging, such as the language, food, the hustle and bustle of large cities, miscommunications between cultures, and even small things like learning to read the menu or paying your bills. There are plenty of opportunities to work, and playing and living in China is rewarding as long as you manage your anxiety and gain some knowledge.
One of my best acquaintances told me everything is possible in China. It can be a challenge; nothing is impossible. Here are some tips on ways to manage some of the common complaints.
1.Massage your body
Are you feeling stressed? Disappointed that, even tho you’re likely to be saying it, no one appears to understand what you’re saying in Mandarin? Massages can let you get away from the city and stress for a short time.
There are many options to pick from, ranging from a short foot massage to a 2-hour massage. Although there are numerous massage centers in China, be cautious about which one you pick and seek a recommendation from a family member or friend. Suggestion. If you’re located in Shanghai and want to go to the Dragonfly, it is costly but perfect, and they can speak English.
2. Plan a day trip or a weekend getaway.
With China’s massive network of high-speed railways, a day’s journey is simple. If you reside in a booming city, hop on a bullet train and travel to an area nearby to escape the chaos and bustle for a few hours.
If you’re unsure which direction to take a look in, choose one of the most popular local places to go. If you’re looking for more time off and have money in your pocket, there are numerous unique destinations all over China on a two or three-hour flight or overnight train. In addition, domestic flights are generally not that expensive. Look thru Ctrip to find great bargains!
A trip out of town for a few hours and exploring could help you reset and bring back all the beautiful things about your home.
3. Eat familiar food
There are times when I cannot consume another dish of noodles or plate of dumplings and need something close to home. There are a lot of western eateries in the majority of cities in the first and second tier of China, and even hot lattes could help.
When you’re getting homesick or bored of eating similar foods, go to a restaurant in a foreign country that you’ve heard of and treat yourself. On days that I feel at home, I enjoy an enormous burger and fries or a hot meal, including Mexican tacos! It’s a good reset, and I want my favorite Chinese meals on the day following.
4. Exercise and rest
Exercise is among the most effective ways to reduce stress. Get your shoes on and go out for a run, take a yoga class from home, or go to a studio or gym to sweat. Be mindful of pollution in the air; if your air quality index is too high, it could cause more damage than you gain. Exercise brings you into the present and makes you focus on what you’re doing, which means you don’t think about all your previous frustrations.
Also, taking a break from your busy schedule and taking a nap can help. Sometimes you’ll have to take a break to relax. Slax, it’s okay. A break can help make a day better. Make sure you take good care of yourself and be kind to yourself!
5. Keep in mind the reason you’re here.
A few days ago, I had a terrible day and talked to my friend about how unhappy I was with the situation in Shanghai. I was annoyed in the sense that, regardless of the amount of Mandarin I had learned, people couldn’t appear to be able to comprehend me. Taxi drivers seemed to be extremely rude on that day, and the pollution in the air was terrible. I was surprised by her comment, “You are aware that you don’t need to stay in this area.” You are free to move elsewhere anytime you like. “
While the comment was not my favorite at the moment, it was real. Even tho things aren’t easy while living abroad, make sure you practice gratitude. Day-to-day life in China is unique, and you’re likely to encounter various exciting people. You’ll encounter things you’d need to know or experience in other places.
It is easy to think that we can take our day-to-day routines for granted, and what used to be foreign has become commonplace. Keep in mind all the positive aspects of the place you reside, and the day that isn’t so great will fade away. Be patient, and you’ll be enjoying life again soon!