Chinese take to yoga; to be discussed during Modi visit

New Delhi, May 4, 2015: The Chinese are taking to yoga in a big way, if what their officials here say are an indication. Of late, yoga has been gaining ground in China despite its traditional tai chi fitness practice. Even First Lady Peng Liyuan is said to be learning and practising yoga. More and more officials and their families in the Chinese embassy here are turning to yoga for sound mental and physical health. "We have arranged for an Indian exponent who is holding a yoga class once in a week in the embassy," press counsellor Xie Liyan told IANS. She said 35-40 people, comprising mainly the embassy staff and their family members, have been attending the classes for the past few months. "Some of the exercises like breathing are quite tough and hard. We are asking for light exercises. But yoga is really relaxing and helps keep the body fit," she added. Minister Counsellor Cheng Guangzhong, who is in India for over a year, said almost every major city in China now has several yoga learning and practising centres. "Two Indian teachers are holding yoga classes in my hometown. They are saying yoga is generating much interest like learning English among the Chinese, mainly the youngsters," he said. Xia said the yoga class in the embassy is held in the evening. "The purpose of holding the class in the evening is to get relaxed after calling it a day. Physical or breathing exercises help recovering inner peace and energy. This of course helps me become more effective," she said.