TCM for a new generation, Dragon Boat Festival top picks: 7 Lifestyle highlights

We have selected five Lifestyle stories from the past seven days that resonated with our readers. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.1. The TCM influencers demystifying ancient Chinese healing practices for Gen ZThe rise of “Chinamaxxing” and a growing appetite for cupping reels and the like has launched Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) content into the mainstream – where it now stands as the perfect combination of holistic healing and all things Chinese.2. 7 top places for sticky rice dumplings in Hong Kong for the Dragon Boat FestivalDragon Boat or Tuen Ng Festival falls on June 19 this year, and during the lead-up, zongzi – glutinous rice dumplings stuffed with all manner of ingredients, wrapped up in bamboo leaves – fill Hong Kong shops and kitchens.3. Is the Year of the Horse’s fifth month lucky for you? Forecasts for all signsHow’s your luck in the Year of the Horse 2026’s fifth month? Feng shui master Andrew Kwan gives his predictions for all 12 Chinese zodiac animal signs. Photo: ShutterstockAs the cosmic elements shift, the fifth month of the Year of the Fire Horse 2026 will bring a mix of opportunities and challenges for those born under many of the Chinese zodiac signs.4. How ultra-processed foods increase dementia risk, and ‘healthy’ items to avoidWhat we put on our plates does far more than fuel our bodies – it affects our heart health, inflammation levels, hormone regulation, blood pressure, sleep quality and mood.5. How a Chinese empress shaped her country without ever taking the throneA painting of Empress Xiaozhuang (1613-1688), known for most of her life by the title Grand Empress Dowager. After securing power by having her son ascend the throne in 1643, she raised his successor, her grandson Kangxi, who would go on to be China’s longest-ruling monarch, reigning from 1661 to 1722. Photo by: Pictures From History/Universal Images Group via Getty ImagesThere is a figure in Chinese history who, despite never ascending the throne, shaped an empire over five reigns, resolved two succession crises to avoid civil war, educated and guided two young emperors, and helped forge multi-ethnic alliances that allowed the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) to rule a vast kingdom.6. 12 must-see Hong Kong shows and arts events in 2026From international stars to highly anticipated premieres by local talent, Hong Kong’s diverse arts scene has plenty to offer in the second half of 2026. Here is our list of must-see cultural performances and events.7. She had a cocaine addiction. Daily meditation helped her quitA Hong Kong professional who hid a years‑long cocaine habit reveals how meditation helped her overcome her addiction. Illustration: CameiraWhile not a cure-all for addiction, meditation offered this Hong Kong writer a low-pressure path to recovery and self-awareness.