When Canadian Martin A. Haase first stepped into a martial arts dojo in Victoria, little did he know this passion would lead him halfway across the world to Changsha, capital of Hunan Province in the Chinese mainland.
His journey began in high school: a fascination with Chinese martial arts. Under his teacher’s guidance, he boarded a flight to study acupuncture in Changsha. There, he discovered the profound depth of traditional Chinese medicine and the philosophy behind martial arts, a blend that would captivate him for years to come.
Immersing in Tradition
In Changsha, Martin immersed himself in local life: mastering acupuncture techniques, attending herbal medicine workshops, and practicing tai chi in parks at dawn. The rhythms of the city and its medical heritage became second nature, inspiring him to make Changsha his home for the next 17 years.
Building Bridges Across Cultures
Today, Martin is more than a practitioner: he’s a cultural ambassador. He has established student exchange programs between Victoria and Changsha’s leading university, connecting young learners eager to explore traditional medicine and local culture.
Martin says, “I want my friends to experience the same sense of discovery I felt.”
Why Changsha Matters
Changsha’s mix of modern innovation and centuries-old traditions makes it a unique hub for global citizens. From tech startups to TCM clinics, the city offers a window into how ancient practices can inspire today’s entrepreneurs and thought leaders.
For travelers and digital nomads, Changsha is a gateway to sustainable cultural immersion: whether you’re a martial artist, a wellness enthusiast, or simply curious, you’ll find stories that resonate across cultures.
Martin’s story reminds us that when maple meets Chinese medicine, the result is more than cultural exchange—it’s a lifelong journey of learning, healing, and friendship.
Reference(s):
Friends overseas: When maple meets Chinese medicine in Changsha
cgtn.com
