On platforms like Xiaohongshu, hashtags like #身心灵 (body, mind and spirit) indicate a heightened search for well-being. An example of this trend is Spotify’s new feature “Track Tarot,” which answers questions about love, friendship, and career through song titles. The market for these services could soon reach $1.5 billion. What are young people seeking in these spiritual practices, and what do they expect to gain from them? They seek a glimpse into the future, guidance, comfort, and explanation. The pressure in the workplace is increasing, as is the psychological strain—people are looking for clarity and wanting to know where their careers may be headed. Influencers on digital platforms promote the spread and popularity of these practices. They influence how these activities are perceived and accepted, but they are also increasingly under the scrutiny of regulatory authorities, which are tightening regulations on activities considered “superstitious.” This is a response to concerns about harmful beliefs and the exploitation of vulnerable people.

From a neutral perspective, it is essential to understand the cultural embedding of these practices in China. Tarot and meditation could develop their own meanings in this context, blending historical and contemporary elements. Let’s remain curious!