Tufting has turned a profit for her studio in the past year but Jiang found that the enthusiasm for it is cooling down as many stores have closed, prompting her to explore a new business model.

Recently she used tufting skills and colorful materials to make fruits, vegetables, meat and fish, and other lovely designs that are closely related to daily life, which sold well at markets or for displays, so she decided to open an online store selling handicrafts. "I believe the furry products with bright colors can make people happy and arouse their enthusiasm for life," she said.

Apart from the art healing industry, niche sports like archery, boxing and surfskating are riding a wave of popularity, according to the Meituan stress-relief list.

Boxing two or three times a week at the gym has become a habit for Deng Yu, 30, a lawyer in Shanghai, in the past half year in the frantic days leading up to deadlines.

"Even though I'm under a lot of pressure, I have to restrain myself and be patient while communicating with clients," he said. "In boxing, I am highly focused, not thinking of my troubles. I feel in control when making aggressive moves and sometimes I yell out when I throw a punch.

"I do benefit from the sport, it toughens me up. But after a short rest, I know I still have to face difficulties in life and get them solved. After all, action is the best weapon against anxiety."