The cover of an English language book about Wu Qin Xi exercise shows a practioner going through some poses. The book was compiled in 2013 by the China Health Qigong Association. [Photo/amazon.com]

Physical and emotional benefits

Medical studies indicate that practicing Wu Qin Xi regularly brings about many benefits. It limbers up the joints, strengthens the waist, nourishes the organs, helps prevent disease and probably prolongs life.

The Wu Qin Xi exercise also functions as an effective tool for emotional catharsis and mental cultivation. The symbolic connotation of the animals can have positive impact on a person's state of mind and behavior.

The dignity and masculine power of the tiger, the elegance of the deer, the earthiness and soft strength of the bear, the graceful and free spirit of the bird, and the liveliness and vigilance of the monkey, all imprint their marks on the consciousness and assist in building self-confidence and self-esteem, researchers say.

The Wu Qin Xi exercise has at least 20 varied versions circulating among enthusiasts worldwide. The most complex form has 60 stances and the simplest form only has five stances. Books on Wu Qin Xi are aplenty in online bookstores. Video clips and brief tutorials about Wu Qin Xi are available on video streaming websites in China and abroad.