Lessons from East Asia: How Cultural Habits Can Help Combat COVID-19
As the world struggles to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s essential to look beyond our borders for solutions. While Marie Kondo’s decluttering philosophy captivated Americans, it’s East Asia’s cultural habits that have proven instrumental in managing the outbreak.
A Region Prepared
The SARS outbreak of 2003 left an indelible mark on East Asia, prompting widespread lifestyle changes and heightened awareness. These habits have been crucial in keeping COVID-19 under control. Oversimplifying the narrative of East Asia’s success neglects the valuable lessons we can adopt to save lives.
6 Hygiene Practices to Adopt
1. Face Coverings as a Sign of Solidarity
In East Asia, wearing face masks is a normal practice, especially during outbreaks. This gesture shows consideration for others, as asymptomatic carriers can still transmit the virus. Mandating face mask use in public spaces has become a crucial measure in many Asian countries, with some European nations following suit.
2. Redefining Personal Space and Contact
People in Asia generally prefer keeping a wider interpersonal distance than those in the West. Traditional greetings, such as bowing or fist-bumping, have replaced handshakes and hugs, minimizing physical contact. This shift in behavior has been adopted globally, with leaders and citizens alike embracing new ways of greeting.
3. Maintaining Trash-Free Public Spaces
In Japan and Taiwan, the absence of trash cans on streets raises awareness about waste generation. Locals are accustomed to holding onto their trash until they get home, separating recyclables, and disposing of waste properly. This environmental practice has proven essential in preventing the littering of used face masks and gloves, which pose a significant health risk.
4. Cleaning Utensils Before Meals
In Hong Kong, the older generation rinses utensils with hot tea or water, a practice rooted in skepticism about hygiene standards. While not scientifically proven, this ritual has become a dining habit. Younger generations carry pocket tissues to wipe chopsticks and clean surfaces, and unscented alcohol wipes have become a popular item for cleaning electronic devices.
5. Shoes Off, Slippers On
Removing shoes before entering homes and businesses is a common practice in East Asia. This habit reduces the risk of tracking in droplets and bacteria, including C. Diff, which can cause infections. Removing wet shoes also saves households and offices from frequent deep cleaning.
6. Evening Showers
In Zen Buddhism, cleaning is a spiritual practice that includes washing off dirt from the body. Evening showers, common in Asia, help remove germs, makeup, oil, and pollutants from the skin, promoting better sleep quality and muscle relaxation.
A Chance for Reflection
The pandemic has provided an opportunity for quiet self-reflection, particularly in terms of personal health. By adopting these cultural habits, we can emerge from this crisis better prepared for future challenges. As we look to the future, it’s essential to take stock of how we can maintain cleanliness, declutter, and prioritize our well-being.
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