Bathed in the soft morning light, Marina Ezdina completes her daily Wuqinxi routine. The 36-year-old Russian from Belokurikha finds peace through this ancient Chinese exercise.
While studying at Hefei University of Technology, she first encountered Wuqinxi. A class led by master Hua Yi changed her life. Hua, a respected Wuqinxi teacher from Anhui Province, inspired Ezdina with his energy and knowledge.
“Wuqinxi helps me focus and balance my emotions,” she shared. “It feels like my body and mind align perfectly.”
Wuqinxi, developed by the famous ancient doctor Hua Tuo, mimics five animals—tiger, deer, bear, ape, and bird. China listed it as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2011.
Even after returning to Siberia, Ezdina never stopped practicing. In her small hometown, Wuqinxi and similar Chinese exercises are growing in popularity. Annual competitions now highlight these traditional movements.
According to Ezdina, many locals even travel to China to train. They return with new skills and deeper cultural appreciation. “People today need to disconnect from screens,” she said. “These exercises help them recharge.”
She’s not alone in following the healing power of TCM. Her mentor, Hua Yi, has promoted Wuqinxi across over 20 countries since 2016. He sees growing international demand for simple yet effective workouts.
“We even designed a child-friendly version,” said Hua. “Kids learn movement and Chinese language at the same time.”
Traditional Chinese exercises like Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Wuqinxi now attract global attention. Over 50 regions practice Wuqinxi. Tai Chi boasts nearly 500 million followers worldwide.
Meanwhile, the healing power of TCM continues to influence Western medicine. In Switzerland, Kiu Caracani leads that movement. He runs three clinics and treats over 400 patients each month.
For nearly 30 years, Caracani has studied TCM directly in China. He works with global partners to expand access and understanding.
“Acupuncture and herbs offer affordable healing options,” he said. “That’s why more countries support these treatments.”
Swiss insurance now covers TCM services. Students and doctors study TCM in major universities and hospitals there.
Caracani collaborates with over 20 global experts to compile an encyclopedia on Chinese medicine. He hopes to unlock the healing power of TCM for future generations.
“China holds centuries of wisdom in its medical texts,” he said. “We need to translate and share this treasure with the world.”
