Am I the only one who finds Beijing super low-energy?
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We locals are incredibly happy here.
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First, you might need to define what you mean by 'low energy' and why you feel tired. But let me share a phenomenon common among Beijing's hard-working crowd, something that resonates with me: delayed gratification. Most young 'Beijing drifters' have this mindset – they prioritize career success and financial stability before allowing themselves to enjoy life or indulge personal desires. That's just the Beijing environment. Compared to cities like Shanghai, Chengdu, or Guangzhou, people in Beijing seem to care less about food, fun, or fashion; it's mostly a two-point commute between home and work. Just look at the people on the subway versus the restaurants on the streets – the difference is obvious.
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To continue—yes, compared to other places, Beijing can feel somewhat lifeless and dull. Maybe that's the 'low energy' you're talking about? Without a strong culture of leisure and entertainment, life can lose some of its spark. As a multi-generational Beijinger, I find that, compared to southern cities, Beijing doesn't offer much of a 'lifestyle.' It's a true cultural hub, but a bit of a lifestyle desert. However, for an artist who is self-sufficient, enjoys their own company, and isn't materialistic, Beijing can be a pretty good place.
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In Feng Shui terms, Beijing is associated with Water and Earth elements, and their energies are quite strong here. People for whom these elements are inauspicious will definitely find it uncomfortable, regardless of their financial status or whether they're a local.
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Doesn't Beijing lack significant rivers and lakes? How can it be a 'Water' element city then? I actually feel much better in Tianjin.
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The negative energy is intense. The 'music' from the morning rush hour subway practically blasts through the roof!
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To sum it up: there are too many non-locals, and these 'corporate drones' often lack family connections and can't save much money, leading to a lot of resentment...
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I don't like it. There's a strong sense of social hierarchy, and it feels like little nobodies like me don't belong.
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That's true. Hospitals have 'cadre channels' (priority access for officials), while ordinary folks struggle so much to get medical care it's incredibly frustrating.
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I feel particularly comfortable and grounded in Beijing. In contrast, I don't feel as good in southern cities; psychologically, I feel adrift there, like a piece of duckweed.
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Beijingers tend to be down-to-earth, content, cheerful, and not focused on social comparison. Those who are less materialistic and more focused on inner cultivation will find it comfortable here.
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Beijing is too serious; it's not really suited for a relaxed lifestyle.
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Pfft, hahaha! Beijing, serious? That's the funniest thing I've heard all day!
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So, where's a place that favors Fire and Wood elements then?
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I'm in Australia, and I can confidently say Australia has strong Wood and Fire elements...
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I've been in Beijing for six years too. My advice: when you get to Beijing, go to the Forbidden City to 'announce' your arrival – let the ancestors know you're here (pay your respects). Then, when you have some free time, visit Tanzhe Temple. I'm serious about this.
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I'm arriving in Beijing tomorrow, and I've decided to take your advice!