Justice served

Coffee, a beloved beverage among young people, is now witnessing a unique trend in China, where law-inspired coffee shops are capturing the attention of the youth, generating 2.92 million posts on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu (RedNote).

In these law-themed coffee shops, customers can browse legal books while savoring a cup of coffee with names that reflect professional legal concepts. Certain cafes simulate courtroom proceedings by stamping a "successful mediation" mark once customers have completed their personalized coffee orders.

Beyond their distinctive atmosphere, these coffee shops also support social welfare by offering public legal services. For example, a cafe in Hangzhou partners with local justice bureaus for public education, while another in Wuhan provides complimentary consultations.

Similar functional theme cafes have also emerged globally — for example, Japan's detective-themed establishments offer missing-person and item-tracing services, while US tax-help hubs answer tax-related queries during the filing season.

According to research from Peking University, the appeal of these establishments lies in the combination of serious legal content with leisure elements, which triggers the release of dopamine.

However, it's hard to say how long this trend will last, as the novelty may quickly wear off. Many visitors come primarily for photos rather than legal services. The sustainability of this blend of caffeine and jurisprudence will depend on initiatives like membership programs or events — factors that will determine whether it evolves into a lasting phenomenon or fades as a passing craze.

Acupressure ear chic

In Japan, a centuries-old traditional Chinese medicine practice is getting a glamorous makeover. What was once a modest wellness technique — taping small seeds to the ear — is now trending as a fashionable sensation: ear acupressure jewelry.

Drawing on the principles of TCM, which uses acupuncture to balance the body's energy, this modern twist swaps out the seeds for luxurious materials like gold, silver, jade, and crystal. Designs range from delicate bows and butterflies to festive Christmas trees, blending ancient healing wisdom with contemporary style.

At specialized salons, the experience begins with a soothing ear massage, followed by the precise application of jeweled stickers on specific acupressure points.

These pieces are believed to stimulate the ear's pressure points and promote overall well-being. Worn for up to a week, the jewelry is often paired with daily self-massage to enhance benefits such as improved energy, reduced fatigue, and better circulation.

The convergence of health and aesthetics has extended beyond Japan's salons and into the realm of technology. Researchers at the University of Washington recently introduced a smart earring — adorned with a cherry blossom pattern — that can monitor physical activity, track vital signs, and wirelessly transmit data.

According to Anjali Talcherkar, who holds a doctorate in integrative medicine from Saybrook University in the US, personal adornment today goes beyond fashion — it can reflect self-care and serve as a meaningful boost to self-esteem.