On a Sunday afternoon in the heart of Calgary’s Chinatown, melodic notes of traditional Chinese string instruments float gracefully through the crisp midday air surrounding Harmony Park, where a crowd gathers to witness a small ensemble of practitioners dressed in flowing silk uniforms.
The group’s measured movements blend in perfect synchronization, as their hands carve deliberate arcs into the air.
They are participating in Winter Wonders: Martial Arts in the Park, an event hosted by the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre that focuses on Qigong and Tai Chi.
The art of Qigong and Tai Chi
The two ancient practices are not just forms of exercise with well-documented health benefits but also expressions of culture, discipline, and the art of ageing well, says instructor David Ha with Calgary Acupuncture.
Ha explains that Qigong Baduanjin is a traditional Chinese exercise system that has existed for more than 800 years. It focuses on circulation, flexibility, and balance and is beneficial for all ages, but particularly for older adults.
Ha, who led the demonstration for the Qigong portion of Martial Arts in the Park in early March, says Qigong is based on three key aspects.
“First is the physical aspect, second will be the mental aspect, and third will be the energy aspect,” Ha says.
Qigong, which predates Tai Chi, is a broader discipline that encompasses a variety of practices aimed at enhancing physical and mental well-being through the cultivation of Qi, referred to as “the life force” in traditional Chinese Medicine.
Qigong and Tai Chi sessions include a variety of physical movements that feature slow, meditative, flowing dance-like motions. These may incorporate sitting or standing meditation postures and mostly gentle body shaking.
The exercises are uncomplicated and performed in slow sequences, which Ha says makes them easy to learn and are especially useful for older adults.
What are the benefits?
Benefits such as improved balance and flexibility reduce the risk of falls, while deep breathing during the exercises contributes to cardiovascular health. All of these help seniors improve their quality of life.
The activities work together to “rejuvenate the whole body from mind and physical body, to internal organs,” says Ha.
The culture of Qigong combines the philosophies of Taoist meditation and Buddhist mindfulness, both of which calm the mind and help to reduce anxiety and stress.
Harmony Park
The demonstrations at Harmony Park that day featured Tai Chi performances by the Calgary Jiang Zhe Shanghai Association, such as Mo Fan Tai Chi. As well as Wushu Tai Chi, which blends traditional practice with martial arts and competitive elements.
Among the performers were Michelle Heung, 70 and her partner Tony Leung, 75, who showcased a dynamic Wushu demonstration. Wushu-Tai Chi, practiced by many for its health and relaxation benefits, includes martial applications like bare-hand and weapon forms, such as the sword (jian) and spear (qiang).
Smiling proudly as she delicately presented her Wushu sword, Heung noted that at her age, she still has many years to participate in these activities.
“I’m the youngest one on this team now… just over 70,” she says with a laugh, adding that she will turn 71 in October.
“Many elders nowadays stay at home or in a senior home,” says Ha. “They are lacking connection to the community and meeting new friends.”
For that reason, Ha says it’s important to promote group practice and encourage older adults to work out in groups and socialize with each other.
Why is exercise important?
Research supports the idea that exercise is crucial in improving mood and overall health among older adults.
Practices like Qigong and Tai Chi not only enhance physical well-being but also provide greater opportunities for social engagement, improved mood and increased self-esteem, all while providing a deep cultural connection for the community of practitioners.
“We believe Qigong should be promoted,” says Ha, “That’s why I teach at the Chinese Cultural Centre,” where various classes rooted in traditional Chinese culture are offered to anyone seeking alternative paths to wellness.