From TikTok feeds to urban parks, a fresh wave of wellness is sweeping the Chinese mainland as the Chinese mainland's 15th National Games kick off.
The Games have been dubbed a catalyst for a collective health kick: millions across the Chinese mainland are adding more movement to their daily routines.
At the heart of this movement is Baduanjin, a gentle, equipment-free set of eight movements that dates back over 800 years to the Song Dynasty. Its simplicity has made it a social media star, with tens of thousands of videos tagged #BaduanjinPractice.
Leading the charge is six-year-old Liu Congzhi, whose flawless execution of the silky-smooth moves has captured hearts online. Clad in a miniature tracksuit, Liu flows seamlessly from stance to posture, proving that age is no barrier to a fitness routine that's as meditative as it is energizing.
Wellness coaches say Baduanjin ticks all the boxes for today's generation: low impact, no equipment, and a brief ten-minute session that can be squeezed in between meetings or lectures. "It's perfect for digital nomads on the move and students glued to their screens," notes one instructor.
As livestreams of the Games rack up views abroad, travelers and expats alike are exploring local parks, hoping to join drop-in Baduanjin sessions. Sustainability advocates also applaud the routine's minimal footprint: no heavy gym equipment, no batteries – just body and breath.
From G20 capitals to remote villages in the Chinese mainland, this Song Dynasty gem is reminding us that wellness can be accessible, cultural, and, yes, fun for all ages.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
