Taoist Health-Preserving Exercise: Baduanjin

Amid the hustle and bustle of vibrant cities, people are increasingly seeking inner peace and physical harmony. Meditation, an ancient Eastern practice, has gained widespread popularity worldwide, while Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese fitness exercise, captivates modern individuals with its unique charm. Is there a deeper connection hidden between meditation and Baduanjin?

Meditation is a journey of mental purification. It involves closing one’s eyes, letting go of distractions, and focusing on breathing and inner calm. As Confucius said, “Is it not a joy to learn and practice regularly?” Meditation, through consistent practice, gradually brings the mind to a state of clarity and tranquility. In this state, individuals can better connect with themselves and engage in a dialogue with their inner voice. Baduanjin, on the other hand, is a fitness practice that integrates breathing with movement. Through a series of gentle, flowing movements paired with deep breathing, it aims to exercise the body and regulate qi and blood. The movements of Baduanjin are meticulously designed, with each targeting a specific part of the body, achieving overall physical coordination and harmony of body and mind.

Baduanjin is a traditional health-preserving exercise consisting of eight movements. The complete set is concise, with moderate physical exertion, and each movement is designed to target specific organs or health conditions for maintenance and treatment. It helps to clear the meridians, promote the flow of qi and blood, and regulate organ functions. Regular practice can strengthen the body and prevent diseases. It is highly beneficial for middle-aged and elderly individuals, those with weak constitutions, or chronic illnesses, offering significant therapeutic and health-preserving effects. In particular, for diabetes, it can improve psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety while enhancing physical health and reducing complications.