15 Asian Household Practices That Americans Find Astonishing

The magnificence of Asia’s cultural diversity is that each country possesses its own traditions and culture, which are unique and incomparable. For instance, in Japan, a Tea ceremony is observed, the Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand, and the Lantern festival is observed in China. Westerners walking into an Asian house are quickly immersed in a world full of traditions that take a few steps to learn, including chopsticks and taking off their shoes before entering the home.

Sociologists say these practices have been used for centuries and are tied to respect, family, and harmony. Here are 15 Asian household customs that amaze American visitors.

Removing Shoes Indoors

Taking shoes off before entering many Asian households is a must. It keeps the living spaces clean and signifies respect for the household.

The widespread removal of footwear in Japan occurred during the Heian period (794-1185) to keep the living space clean from outdoor dirt. It is an easy addition to help you avoid countless hours of vacuuming.

Squat Toilets

Squat toilets are standard in Asia, and they can seem odd to Westerners. The advocates say the posture has health benefits, such as improved digestion.

Always carry tissues, as restrooms do not provide them. This is a great travel tip for visitors.

Rice Cookers Are Life Savers

Rice is a staple food and must be eaten in many Asian households almost at every meal. Rice cookers are much more than kitchen appliances.

Press a button to have perfectly cooked rice for any dish. A rice cooker can be a lifesaver if you’ve never made rice on the stove.

Multi-Generational Living

In China and India, for instance, it’s normal for several generations of one family to live under the same roof. This encourages family ties and facilitates grandparents’ participation in raising grandchildren and passing down cultural values.

Sociologists studying family dynamics point out that living with extended family strengthens familial ties and creates a valuable support network.

Minimalist Living

Japan, for example, has a high population density and, consequently, a small living space. This makes minimalist living the way of life for many Asians.

Minimalism helps us appreciate what we have and declutter our surroundings for a calmer and more organized living space. It also brings a creative spin on how to store and use every square inch of available space.

Use of Washcloths to Bathe

Many Asian countries use washcloths for bathing. Washcloths are thought to be more hygienic and efficient than loofahs or bare hands. For hygienic reasons, they also have multiple towels for specific body parts.

As gentle exfoliators frequently produced using noncontaminated cotton or hemp, washcloths are a natural, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic bath sponges.

Celebrating New Year At Different Times Of The Year

Many Asian countries do not celebrate the new year on January 1st. For example, the Lunar New Year, celebrated by China, Vietnam, and Korea, is generally in January and February.

The lion dance and giving out red envelopes are among the traditions that symbolize good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. April’s Songkran festival in Thailand is famous for its water-splashing fun, which dates back to ancient purification rituals.

Hanging Laundry to Dry

Drying clothes in a dryer is not common in many Asian countries. Instead, laundry is dried outside in natural air.

This is more environmentally friendly and also helps save electricity bills. Research has also revealed that line-dried clothes can last longer as they experience less heat and friction.

Tea Ceremonies

Many Eastern cultures have tea ceremonies as part of their culture. They involve an elaborate ritual of preparing, serving, and drinking tea, with specially developed techniques and etiquette.

Tea ceremonies have taught us to slow down, be present, and be grateful for simplicity. Tuning in with yourself and others is a great way to achieve inner peace and harmony.

Sleeping On the Floor

For some Asian cultures, like Japan and Korea, it is traditional—to use a futon or mat, which can be rolled up or put away—to sleep on the floor. Dr. Amy McNeil, a chiropractor who is an expert in musculoskeletal health, says that sleeping in this way can help posture through more aligned spinal positioning.

The firm support of the floor helps to relieve stress on the back and possibly ease some kinds of back pain.

Most Meals are eaten with Chopsticks

Chopsticks are said to be a cultural symbol and are the primary utensil for most Asian cuisines. Using chopsticks may take some practice, but it’s another way to enjoy a meal.

Additionally, experts say slowing down the pace of eating heightens mindful eating and encourages better digestion and calorie control.

Not Calling Elders by Name

It’s considered disrespectful to address elders by their first names. Instead, they are addressed with specific terms or titles.

This tradition instructs younger generations to honor and show respect for their more ‘elderly’ relatives, promoting intergenerational relationships and values.

Use of Bidets

Many Asian households have bidets for bathroom fixtures. This is based on the belief that washing with water is more hygienic than toilet paper. Christine Lee, MD, a gastroenterologist, reports that bidets are a better clean.

They also lower your toilet paper usage, making them the more eco-friendly alternative.

Sitting On The Floor To Eat

As a tradition in many Asian cultures, people serve and eat their meals on the floor, around a low table or mat; this allows for flexibility and comfortable body positioning and enables community eating.

Studies show that sitting on the ground while eating may have health benefits, including better digestion and posture and improved mindfulness during meals.

Seating Arrangements

Traditionally, in Asian households, the seating arrangements are strictly maintained. The most respected or the eldest sits at the place of honor, the head of the table, the others sitting successively further down. This practice teaches children respect for elders and the hierarchy of families.

It gives people space to participate, to have their voices heard, to speak their minds, and to listen and learn from those who have been on it longer.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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