An unusual and in-demand profession has appeared in China—slipmaker (dream creator). These professionals help young people with insomnia relax and fall asleep through calming conversations and emotional support. Mail.ru reports this with reference to the South China Morning Post.
The growing popularity of this profession is associated with an increase in the number of young Chinese experiencing sleep problems. Many of them work in a rigid "996" culture - 9am to 9pm, six days a week - which leads to stress and sleep disturbances.
Sleepmakers' clients note that the opportunity to share their problems with a neutral interlocutor helps relieve emotional stress better than talking with friends or relatives. Freed from the burden of experiences, it becomes easier for people to fall asleep.
A slipmaker's hourly rate can reach 260 yuan (36 USD), and daily earnings can reach up to 30 000 yuan (about 4 200 USD), not including tips.