In recent weeks, social media has erupted with a fascinating new trend known as 'man mums,' a term that has captivated the hearts and minds of many young women seeking emotional relief. For a fee of ₹600 (approximately $7), these women are turning to muscular men—dubbed 'man mums'—for a brief, five-minute hug aimed at alleviating stress. This trend is primarily gaining traction in China, where the need for emotional connection and stress release is increasingly recognized.

But what exactly are 'man mums'? Initially described by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) as men who frequent gyms and showcase their muscular physiques, the term has evolved significantly. Today, it refers to men who not only possess physical strength but also embody traditionally feminine qualities such as gentleness, patience, and nurturing. This blend of traits seems to resonate with women looking for a comforting embrace amidst the pressures of modern life.

The concept of paying for a hug gained momentum following a viral social media post from a stressed University student. Expressing her overwhelming anxiety related to her thesis work, she declared her willingness to pay for a hug from a supportive 'man mum.' “I was hugged once in secondary school and felt safe. We can just hug for five minutes at an underground station,” she shared, poignantly highlighting the emotional comfort a simple hug can provide.

Following this post, a surge of interest in 'man mums' swept across major cities in China, with countless women searching for these muscle-bound companions on various social media platforms. The process is quite straightforward: women can select a man mum based on attributes such as demeanor, patience, physique, and appearance. Prior to meeting, they often engage in private conversations to ensure compatibility.

Most hugs occur in public settings like underground stations or shopping centers, with prices ranging from ₹250 to ₹600 (20 to 50 yuan). Interestingly, some tall and athletic women have also found their way into the 'man mum' community, broadening the appeal of this service.

The experiences shared by women who have sought out man mums offer fascinating insights into the emotional benefits of these brief encounters. One woman recounted her experience after a grueling three-hour work shift. She hired a man mum for a quick hug, stating that he not only embraced her for three minutes but also comfortingly patted her shoulder as she vented about her workplace frustrations.

Another user revealed that after struggling with a failed diet, she found solace in hugging a postgraduate student. Their interactions, while brief, provided her with unexpected emotional uplift. An online user, identified as Fox, shared a touching moment about her man mum, who not only embraced her but also bought her a coffee and a book. Their subsequent conversation about exams and hobbies turned out to be more fulfilling than the hug itself. “What made me happier than the hug was the warmth from a stranger,” Fox expressed, emphasizing the importance of human connection.

In interviews with SCMP, several man mums provided insights into their motivations for participating in this unique venture. One man expressed that offering hugs gives him a profound “sense of self-worth,” underscoring the positive impact these interactions have on both parties involved. Another man noted that many clients struggle with issues such as appearance anxiety and workplace stress, suggesting that their services help alleviate some of these burdens.

To ensure an optimal hugging experience, man mums pay meticulous attention to their appearance, often perfecting their hair and makeup and applying cologne to create a welcoming atmosphere. Interestingly, one man mum shared that while he does not wish to make a full-time career out of hugging, charging a fee allows him to maintain a necessary emotional distance during these interactions, ensuring that both he and his clients feel comfortable and safe.