International students at China University of Petroleum (UPC) practice Wu Qin Xi to experience the traditional Chinese culture. (PHOTO: XINHUA)

By Staff Reporters

Hua  Tuo,  a  renowned  ancient Chinese physician, was a pioneer in developing numerous classical ways of promoting health and well-being. He attached great importance to the benefits of moderate exercise in preventing diseases.

Hua is said to have developed a form of exercise called Wu Qin Xi (the Five-Animal Mimic Boxing) 2000 years ago, which imitates the movements of the tiger, deer, bear, monkey (ape), and bird (crane).

He believed that Wu Qin Xi movements, when correctly performed, stimulate the internal lubrication of free-flowing qi and blood to our continued health and sense of well-being. Qi (also known as chi) is sometimes interpreted as "vital life energy" in traditional Chinese medicine. According to classical Chinese philosophy, qi is the power that creates and holds everything together in the cosmos.

Symbolically, the five animal-inspired positions reflect various internal organs and systems of the body. As a result, each of the five types of gestures is intended to manage the functions of the associated organs and body systems.

First of all, the Tiger move is associated with the wood element and is intended to strengthen the liver and gall bladder. Secondly, the Deer move is related to the water element and is used to enhance the function of the kidneys and bladder.

Meanwhile, the Bear move aims to improve the spleen and stomach function, which is associated with the earth element.

The Monkey move is associated with the element of fire. Once consistently practiced, the heart and small intestine's function will be enhanced.

Finally, the Bird move is related to the metal element and it is designed to improve lung capacity.