Outdoor yoga festivals pick up steam in Beijing
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Loading... - Chiyo Gato
- 09 Jun 2023
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In the past few months, Beijing has witnessed a series of captivating outdoor yoga events that have attracted a multitude of participants. These events, namely Wake-up Spring in March, Sweat in April, Inside-Flow last month, and the recently concluded Beijing Ocean Yoga Festival, have garnered immense interest from yoga enthusiasts. Primarily consisting of women aged between 20 and 40, these individuals eagerly engage in these events, driven by their desire to embrace a healthy lifestyle and partake in the invigorating energy and physical benefits of yoga.
Taking place at the breathtaking Taipingyang Andover Under Water World, the Beijing Ocean Yoga Festival was a remarkable gathering organized by renowned yoga brands such as Mona Yoga and Kamal Yoga. From the break of dawn until dusk, countless athletes, celebrated yoga instructors, and nearly 1,000 enthusiastic yoga practitioners joined forces, fostering an environment of shared insights and wholesome wellness.
During this extraordinary event, Mona Yoga made a heartfelt commitment to contribute 1 yuan ($0.14) to marine conservation organizations for every class attended by its students. This generous initiative aims to support vital causes such as marine protection and wildlife conservation.
Over the past years, yoga has experienced a surge in popularity among both middle-aged and young women residing in first-tier cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. According to data from chinabgao.com, a prominent insights platform, yoga has established itself as one of the most sought-after sports for women in China. The number of practitioners continues to rise steadily, with an estimated 12.5 million individuals expected to engage in yoga this year.
As the yoga community flourishes, an array of yoga styles and exercises has emerged, catering to diverse preferences. Traditional forms like Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga coexist alongside more contemporary styles favored by the younger generation, such as Inside-flow Yoga, Soundwave Yoga, and Ocean Yoga.
At the Beijing Ocean Yoga Festival, esteemed Inside-flow Yoga teachers Qian Xiaojie and Liu Yingqing, Mona Yoga Teaching Director and Ocean Yoga teacher Li Shiyu, and Electric Yoga instructor Jessica, led enthusiasts through invigorating outdoor sessions. Participants like Wei Zijie expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to break away from the demanding work routine and prioritize their well-being. Wei mentioned that engaging in outdoor yoga activities over the weekend, surrounded by friends, under the sun's warm embrace, instills a sense of relaxation and joy in her life.
Liu Chuo, the event's chief planner, emphasized that yoga transcends the common perception of mere stretching and flexibility. It serves as a catalyst for developing strength, balance, and various other abilities. Moreover, it plays a significant role in counterbalancing the fast-paced lifestyles prevalent in first-tier cities. Liu expressed their aspiration to cater to yoga enthusiasts in the future, providing them with an even wider array of yoga experiences.
Numerous fitness bloggers actively participated in the festival, enriching the vibrant atmosphere with their presence. One of them, Xiaohongshu blogger JS Jun, remarked on the sight of staff members diligently cleaning up the lawn. This act resonated deeply with JS Jun, illustrating the connection between sports enthusiasts, their love for themselves, and their profound concern for the environment and the world at large. Such a display of the sporting spirit profoundly inspired the blogger and instilled a great deal of strength within.
Geng Yunfei, the visionary behind Mona Yoga, expressed their desire for yoga to become an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. They firmly believe that individuals who embrace an active lifestyle also possess a deep appreciation for the world we inhabit. Consequently, Mona Yoga has resolved to donate a portion of their earnings to marine conservation initiatives, aiming to make a positive and lasting impact.
Wang Ying, the founder and CEO of Kamal Yoga, emphasized that yoga promotes not only physical exercise but also a holistic approach to life. Unlike other sports, yoga intertwines with the philosophy of balanced living, guiding individuals on a path of self-discovery and personal growth. Through organizing events like the Beijing Ocean Yoga Festival, Kamal Yoga aims to accompany yoga enthusiasts on their transformative journey of nurturing both their bodies and minds.
