Tai Chi in China’s Temple of Heaven: An Enduring Cultural Tradition

Every morning at Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, hundreds of people practice tai chi, a movement art developed over 300 years ago. Participants mimic birds spreading their wings, engaging in physical and philosophical exercises. Many practitioners, including Ye Guirong, 64, appreciate the favorable environment and fresh air provided by the surrounding trees. Most tai chi enthusiasts are retirees over 60, some exercising in groups with relaxing music, others practicing solo.

Ye began her tai chi journey in 2010 after retiring. She discovered a group while walking in the city and decided to join. New members learn basic movements from group leaders, who regularly review and help correct techniques. Initial movements include “White Crane Spreads Its Wings,” where one arm rises while the other lowers, and “Part the Wild Horse’s Mane,” with fluid weight shifts.

Ye’s group, Cypress Grove, has over 30 members and frequently welcomes newcomers like Zu Hong, 59, who learned a 24-movement routine within a month. Zu sought exercise and beauty in tai chi, finding both at the Temple of Heaven.

Founded by a Ming dynasty emperor, the Temple of Heaven symbolizes the link between heaven and earth. Its Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is a ceremonial area once used by emperors for offerings. Today, it functions as a tourist site with open gardens.

Tai chi embodies martial arts and philosophy, emphasizing qi, or vital energy, which in traditional Chinese medicine is believed to flow through meridians connecting body parts. Practices like acupuncture regulate this flow. Qi also exists in nature, and temples are traditionally established on mountains for proximity to this energy.

Ye’s group practices Yang-style tai chi, rotating through sets varying from 24 to 48 movements, sometimes incorporating swords or fans. Participants note health improvements and heightened spirits. Chen-style, an older tai chi form, originated in the 17th century, focusing on self-cultivation and spiritual enlightenment, as introduced by Chen Wangting.

The combination of movements and philosophy in tai chi offers benefits to all who practice correctly. This inclusive aspect is emphasized by Tai Chi master Chen Haitao.

Associated Press video journalist Wu Jia contributed to this report.