One great aspect of my time there was learning BA DUAN JIN (八段锦), an ancient Qigong practice. Unlike the physically demanding movements of Shaolin Kung Fu, Ba Duan Jin felt like an internal practice—one that focuses on breathing, energy flow, and focus itself. I assumed it would be simple, just slow, deliberate movements, but after practicing it under the guidance of the monks, I came to appreciate its depth and intricacy. The movements felt like they were freeing the circulation in my body as well as loosening up stiffness and improving my posture.

Spending my time at the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu, Shaolin temple, was a brilliant experience.

My experience at Shaolin temple taught me that kung-fu isn’t just about fighting but more about health. Ba Duan Jin, in particular, impressed me very much. It’s a practice that cultivates something that in our age is poorly undervalued—harmony between body and mind.

It was a pleasure to realise the discipline, strength, and understanding of both martial arts and traditional medicine that the masters have.

There is also a meditative quality to Ba Duan Jin—It’s a very good feeling to harmonise with your own natural breathing patterns while stretching the body. It was as if I was tuning myself like an instrument, adjusting my energy and balance. I was also surprised by a seemingly scientific logic that the monks used to explain the causes and effects of the ancient movements—Shaolin monks don’t blindly follow their traditions, it is obvious they have a deep understanding of human anatomy.