Dong Gua (Winter Melon) Sleeping Trend in China 2025: Benefits and Uses

In the scorching summer of 2025, a quirky new cooling trend is quietly taking over China: sleeping with a winter melon. People are ditching electric fans and expensive air conditioners in favor of an unexpected “cooling buddy” — the humble winter melon. You might be wondering: why a winter melon? Can it really cool you down? This simple hack has already gone viral across China. Why not try this fun and practical way to stay cool yourself? Go grab a winter melon and give it a hug!

Why Has “Sleeping with a Winter Melon” Become a Trend?

China’s 2025 trend: sleeping with winter melons

Recent Extreme Heatwaves Across China

Shandong, Jiangsu, and Anhui hitting record-breaking temperatures. You’ve probably felt the intense heat when the temperature rises above 40°C (104°F). It’s tough to escape the heat when even fans seem useless. In many areas, air conditioning is either too expensive or unavailable. People like you, searching for affordable ways to cool down, quickly started looking for creative solutions. That’s when the “sleeping with a winter melon” trend began to take off.

Winter melon, known for its high water content, quickly became the go-to fruit. It’s easy to find and cheap. Unlike air conditioning, it doesn’t need electricity. It also doesn’t need to be refrigerated. People began using winter melon to cool down at night. This simple method became an affordable and effective way to beat the heat. For you, this trend was the perfect solution to survive the hot summer months.

The rise of this trend makes sense. Climate change has made extreme weather more frequent, and affordable cooling methods are in high demand. Winter melon provides an energy-free solution for people like you who want to cool down but can’t afford expensive gadgets. That’s why this old, practical trick is making a comeback.

Sleeping with a Winter Melon as This Summer’s Popular Trend

When the heat became unbearable, you probably found yourself searching for new ways to cool down. The “sleeping with a winter melon” trend quickly gained traction online, becoming a viral sensation in China. People started to share their experiences, posting photos and videos of themselves cuddling with the melon or placing it next to their bodies at night. What makes this method so popular? It’s simple, inexpensive, and requires no electricity. Just grab a winter melon, and you’re good to go!

What’s even better? It’s a fun and easy way to chill out, and it doesn’t require any complicated steps. You don’t need to buy any fancy gadgets or spend a fortune on air conditioning. All you need is a melon, which you can find at almost any local market. People, especially those without access to expensive cooling methods, started using winter melon to cool off at night. This simple practice soon became a shared experience that united people across the country. It’s funny how something as simple as a melon can turn into a trend that connects so many of us.

The trend caught fire thanks to social media. Platforms like Weibo and Douyin (China’s version of TikTok) became the perfect stage for this cooling hack to go viral. People not only shared how they used winter melons to cool down but also added their own creative spins. It became more than just a cooling technique; it turned into a lighthearted way to tackle the heat. Now, the trend is part of a nationwide conversation, and everyone seems to be joining in on the fun. Who knew that such a simple, everyday fruit could become a trend that helped so many people escape the summer heat?

Humorous Online Reactions

As with any viral trend, “sleeping with a winter melon” has sparked plenty of humor and playful reactions online. People in China are not just using the melon to cool off—they’re having fun with it. One of the most popular phrases that’s been circulating is, “You can’t lose with a winter melon.” It’s become the perfect caption for all those funny posts and memes, adding an extra layer of humor to this unusual way of staying cool.

What’s even better is how creative people in China have gotten w ith the trend. Some users post pictures of themselves holding the melon in odd positions, while others pretend they’re at a “winter melon spa.” The trend has become a creative outlet, where people find joy in the simplicity of it all. You’ve probably seen some of these funny posts yourself. It’s a chance for everyone to come together, laugh, and connect over the shared experience of staying cool in the summer heat.

The Science Behind Sleeping with a Winter Melon

a Winter Melon

Physical Cooling Effect

If you’ve ever wondered how hugging a winter melon helps cool you down, you’re not alone. Winter melon contains more than 95% water, making it a perfect natural cooling agent. When you lie next to or hug the melon at night, it acts almost like a “water pillow,” absorbing the heat from your body. This means that as your body comes into contact with the melon, it transfers the excess heat to the fruit. As a result, you feel cooler, and the melon becomes warmer, effectively balancing your body temperature without the need for any electronic devices.

This simple process is based on the principle of heat exchange. When you place something cool against your body, heat naturally flows from the warmer object (your body) to the cooler one (the melon). Since winter melon is packed with water, it can absorb and dissipate heat much more efficiently than other fruits or objects. So, when you’re seeking relief from the heat, this natural cooling effect can help your body relax and cool down faster.

The best part? This cooling method doesn’t just work for a few minutes. Winter melon continues to absorb heat for hours, giving you long-lasting relief throughout the night. It’s a low-maintenance, low-cost solution that provides consistent cooling without any of the drawbacks of other methods, like air conditioning, which can be expensive or harmful to the environment. So, if you’re looking for a way to beat the heat naturally, you’ve found the perfect solution in winter melon.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Explanation

Winter melon’s cooling properties don’t just come from its high water content. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter melon is considered a powerful herb with cooling effects. TCM has long recognized the therapeutic benefits of winter melon, especially for reducing internal heat and balancing the body’s energy. In TCM, summer heat is associated with excess yang energy, which can lead to symptoms like irritability, excessive sweating, and dehydration. Winter melon, with its cooling properties, helps to clear this excess heat from your body.

When you eat or use winter melon in this way, you’re giving your body exactly what it needs to stay in balance. According to TCM principles, consuming foods that are cool and hydrating—like winter melon—helps to restore your internal system to harmony. By placing the melon near you while you sleep, you’re supporting your body’s natural ability to regulate temperature. This is why winter melon is often used in TCM to treat conditions caused by heat, like inflammation or fever. It’s not just a modern-day cooling hack; it’s a centuries-old remedy that’s stood the test of time.

For you, if you’re familiar with TCM, winter melon might be something you’ve used in herbal remedies or cooling soups before. By placing the melon next to your body at night, it’s like drinking a cooling herbal tea—without the hassle. The combination of ancient knowledge and modern-day practicality has made winter melon a popular choice for cooling off in China. As this tradition continues to spread, more people, including you, are discovering how beneficial it can be in combating the summer heat.

Methods for Using Winter Melon to Cool Down

Winter melons hanging from tree branches

How to Prepare Winter Melon

Preparing winter melon for cooling down is simple. First, grab a fresh winter melon from your local market—most of them are easy to find and budget-friendly. Before you start using it, you need to clean the surface to remove the white fuzz that covers the melon. This fuzz is harmless but could irritate your skin, so make sure to wash it thoroughly with water. If you’re sensitive, you might want to use a soft cloth to wipe the melon’s surface.

Once it’s clean, you don’t need to do much else. If you’re planning to use the melon for sleeping, there’s no need to cut it into pieces. Instead, you can place the whole melon next to you or hug it while you sleep. For some, even just placing the melon near your feet or legs can be enough to feel the cooling effect. If you’re sleeping with it, make sure it’s not in direct contact with your stomach, as you want to focus on cooling your limbs rather than your core. It’s a simple but effective method!

It’s important to note that winter melon can be reused multiple times. Once it’s warmed up, you can simply soak it in cold water, dry it off, and use it again. For you, this makes it a convenient, long-lasting option for keeping cool during those hot summer nights. Plus, the best part is that it doesn’t require any complicated steps or extra purchases. Just clean it, and you’re ready to enjoy a good night’s sleep with the added benefit of cooling relief.

How to Position the Winter Melon for Maximum Cooling

When it comes to using winter melon for cooling, positioning matters. To get the most cooling benefit, place the melon close to your limbs. You’ll want to avoid putting it directly on your stomach or chest, as the primary cooling effect is more effective for your extremities. By hugging or placing the melon near your legs, arms, or feet, you allow it to absorb excess heat without interrupting your natural body processes.

If you’re not comfortable with hugging the melon all night, just place it at the edge of your bed. Some people place it near their feet or even next to their pillow to let the cooling effect work gradually. The key is to keep the melon close enough to absorb heat while still feeling relaxed and comfortable. It’s important that the melon is in contact with areas of your body that feel hot, such as your feet or hands, as these areas tend to retain heat more than others.

Also, you don’t need to worry about getting up in the middle of the night to adjust the melon. Winter melon has a steady cooling effect that lasts for hours. Once placed near your limbs, it will continue to cool you off until the morning. This is a low-maintenance, long-lasting way to stay cool during hot summer nights. And remember, you can always reuse the melon multiple times as long as you keep it clean.

Who Can Benefit from Using Winter Melon for Cooling?

Ideal Candidates

The beauty of using winter melon as a cooling method is that it can benefit a wide variety of people. If you’ve ever struggled with the heat and couldn’t afford air conditioning, winter melon offers an affordable solution. The elderly, children, and pregnant women are especially well-suited for this cooling method. These groups often have more difficulty regulating their body temperature in extreme heat, so using winter melon to cool down can provide them with much-needed relief.

For you, if you’re someone who finds it difficult to sleep during hot nights, hugging a winter melon could be the perfect solution. It works naturally to cool your body, allowing you to relax and sleep better. Since it’s a simple and non-invasive method, it’s safe for people of all ages. Whether you’re in a rural area without access to modern cooling systems or in a bustling city where air conditioning is expensive, the winter melon serves as a budget-friendly option to beat the heat.

If you’re living in an area where high temperatures are a constant issue, this method can make those summer nights much more bearable. It’s ideal for those who need cooling but don’t have access to high-tech gadgets or expensive cooling devices. Winter melon is there when you need it—simple, effective, and inexpensive.

Precautions for Sensitive Individuals

While winter melon is generally safe for most people, it’s important to take precautions if you have certain sensitivities. For you, if you suffer from digestive issues or have a delicate stomach, it’s important to avoid letting winter melon come into direct contact with your stomach area. Winter melon’s cooling effect may be too intense for those with cold stomachs, potentially leading to discomfort or even digestive upset. So, it’s best to focus on cooling your limbs and avoid placing it directly on your abdomen.

Additionally, if you’re someone who tends to get cold easily, especially if you have a weak constitution, you may want to use winter melon with caution. While it’s a natural way to cool down, it could trigger symptoms like chills or stomach cramps in those with a sensitive constitution. To avoid these effects, try using a cloth to wrap the melon or place it next to your body instead of directly hugging it. That way, you still get the cooling benefits, but it won’t be as intense on your body.

Even with these precautions, winter melon remains a safe and effective cooling solution for most people. Just make sure to listen to your body and adjust accordingly. If you’re in doubt, it’s always a good idea to consult a health professional before trying out new methods for cooling down.

Safe Usage Tips

Using winter melon to cool down is a straightforward process, but here are a few tips to make sure you’re doing it safely. First, make sure the melon is clean before you use it. This is especially important if you’re sensitive to dirt or dust. Give the melon a good rinse under cold water and remove any visible fuzz. For you, it’s best to clean it thoroughly to prevent any irritation.

Next, consider using a light cloth to wrap the melon, especially if you’re concerned about the cold effect on your body. The cloth will act as a barrier, allowing you to enjoy the cooling benefits without direct contact. You can place the melon next to your legs, feet, or arms, where the cooling effect will be most beneficial. If you’re worried about the melon becoming too warm during the night, simply rinse it under cool water and it’s ready to be used again.

Finally, remember that winter melon is reusable. Once it’s absorbed heat from your body, you don’t have to toss it out. Soak it in cold water, wipe it off, and it’s good to go for another round of cooling. It’s an eco-friendly, long-lasting solution that won’t break the bank.

Winter Melon’s Many Uses: More Than Just a Summer Cooler

Winter melon is a classic summer cooling food

Winter melon isn’t just a seasonal cooling hack—it’s surprisingly versatile. Across China and Southeast Asia, it stars in home kitchens year-round. You can simmer it with pork ribs for a light soup, steam it with shrimp for a delicate dish, or try a nostalgic treat like candied winter melon. These recipes aren’t just tasty—they’re gentle on your stomach and perfect for hot or humid days.

But the perks don’t stop at your plate. Winter melon works wonders for skincare too. Mash it into a DIY face mask or blend it into a refreshing body spray. It’s packed with moisture and super low in calories, making it ideal if you’re watching your diet or just want to feel refreshed after being out in the sun.

The best part? You can find winter melon abroad without much trouble. Most Asian supermarkets or international grocery stores carry it, usually for $5 to $8. One big melon can last through several meals and beauty sessions. So the next time you spot one, grab it—it’s way more useful than it looks.

More Practical Ways to Stay Cool in Summer

Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

One of the easiest ways to stay cool in the summer is by wearing loose, breathable clothing. Cotton, linen, and silk are great fabrics for hot weather because they absorb sweat and allow air to circulate around your body. When you wear clothes that let your skin breathe, you feel cooler and more comfortable.

If you’re planning to spend time outside, choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that cover your skin from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat or a sun umbrella can also help protect you from UV rays and keep your face cool. While you’re out in the sun, don’t forget to wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn. When you sweat, your pores open up, so it’s important to avoid strong winds that can carry dust or dirt. Instead, try to stay in shaded areas and wear light, protective layers to avoid overexposure to the sun.

For indoor cooling, wearing loose clothing around the house can help keep you comfortable when there’s no air conditioning. You’ll notice that when your clothes aren’t clinging to your body, your body temperature stays regulated. So next time you’re feeling hot, reach for something loose and breathable.

Cooling Foods to Eat During Summer

Another great way to stay cool is by eating foods that help hydrate and cool down your body. Winter melon is one of the best foods for this purpose, but there are many other seasonal fruits and vegetables you can enjoy too. For example, loofah, bitter melon, and cucumbers are all great choices. These foods are not only hydrating but also packed with nutrients that help balance your body’s internal heat.

When you eat cooling foods, your body receives the hydration it needs to combat dehydration and heat stress. If you’re feeling hot, try eating some chilled watermelon, cantaloupe, or citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. They’re full of water and vitamins, which can help you stay refreshed. Avoid consuming too many spicy foods or cold drinks, as they can disrupt your digestive system and may make you feel hotter in the long run.

Drinking herbal teas like chrysanthemum or mint tea can also provide a cooling effect. These teas help regulate body temperature and are a perfect, calming way to relax on a hot day. So, when you’re planning your meals this summer, remember to include cooling foods and hydrating fruits to help keep you refreshed and comfortable.

Tips for Cooling Your Home

When the heat kicks in and you’re stuck indoors, your home can feel like an oven. But with a few easy tricks, you can cool things down fast. Start by opening your windows early in the morning or later at night. That’s when the outside air is cooler, and it’ll help freshen up your place. During the hottest part of the day, though, it’s best to keep the sun out—close your windows and pull the curtains or blinds. You’ll be surprised how much cooler it feels.

Want to take it up a notch? Try adding a few cooling plants like mint or jasmine. Not only do they smell nice, but they also help lower the room temperature a bit. Another fun hack: put a bowl of ice in front of a fan. As the ice melts, the fan blows cooler air across the room. It’s cheap, easy, and actually works. You could also use a damp towel to wipe your arms or neck—just a few swipes can help you cool off in seconds.

If you’ve got a fan or AC, make sure it’s set up right. Don’t just let it blow warm air around. Point it toward the coolest area, or place it where it can pull in air from outside. And remember to clean the filters now and then—it keeps your AC running smoother and cooler. Keeping your space chill doesn’t have to be complicated. Just use what you’ve got, and you’ll ride out the heat in comfort.

Ready to try something clever and delightful? Want to explore more fun Chinese trends? Don’t miss our deep dive into the world of Labubu!

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