The School of International Education successfully held cultural activity of “Experiencing China: The Art of Tai Chi”, which is one of the series activities in “Discover China in Yancheng: A Vibrant Cultural Adventure 2025” for international students on March 19, 2025. Dr. Ma Mingliang from the School of Physical Education, YCIT was invited to guide over 50 international students, who were from Thailand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Korea, Uzbekistan, and other countries, in understanding Tai Chi culture and experiencing it.

During theoretical teaching, Dr. Ma systematically elaborated on the origin and development of Tai Chi, with a focus on core theoretical systems such as “yin-yang balance” and “conquering the unyielding with the yielding”. In the following teaching demonstration, Dr. Ma fully showcased the 24-form Simplified Tai Chi, with his smooth transitions and precise force control triggered spontaneous applause from the students multiple times. During the practical teaching, Dr. Ma led the students in basic movement training, teaching fundamental moves such as Waving Hands like Cloud and Parting the Wlid Horse’s Mane on Both Sides. NUT BOONPRASIT, a student from Thailand, said, “ The movements of Tai Chi are soft but powerful, reminding me of Chinese Kung Fu movies l’ve watched previously. My dream has come true at this moment.” DANISH SHUKRAT from Pakistan particularly noted the “high coordination between breathing rhythm and body movements.” During the one-and-a-half Tai Chi experience, the international students felt amazed by the profoundness of Chinese martial arts and the deep humanistic thoughts it contains. Especially the seemingly soft Tai Chi, the power it exerts in actual combat has left a deep impression on students.

This Tai Chi activity is the first one of the series activities in “Discover China in Yancheng: A Vibrant Cultural Adventure 2025” for international students at YCIT. This series of activities aims to enhance international students’ understanding and love of outstanding traditional Chinese culture through colorful cultural interactions, promoting exchanges and integration between Chinese and foreign cultures.

Photos taken by Shi Qiuyu