Benin celebrates first International Taijiquan Day with demonstrations and introductory activities

GODOMEY, Benin, March 21 (Xinhua) -- Demonstrations and introductory activities were held Saturday in Godomey, about 30km from Cotonou, Benin's economic capital, to mark the country's first celebration of International Taijiquan Day.

The event was initiated by the Chinese Cultural Center in Benin and organized by its Wushu team, with support from the Beninese Wushu Association. Combining demonstrations, teaching sessions and interactive experiences, it drew more than 100 participants, including local residents and students from the Confucius Institute at the University of Abomey-Calavi.

Through the movements, participants experienced the balance between softness and strength, explored the philosophy of harmony, and gained a deeper appreciation of the unique charm of Chinese culture.

"The celebration of the International Taijiquan Day aims, among other things, to promote the practice of Taijiquan, raise awareness among the Beninese people of its health benefits, foster cultural exchanges, and strengthen bilateral ties between Benin and China," Fabrice Noudofinin, ambassador for the promotion of Sino-Beninese Wushu, told Xinhua.

For nearly two hours, Beninese practitioners introduced Taijiquan to the public through slow and flowing movements, qigong exercises, breathing techniques and group practice, while highlighting the therapeutic benefits of this Chinese martial art, which is listed as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. ■