Elderly residents are seen in an undated photo gathering to practice yoga in Yugouliang Village, Hebei Province. /IC
In a mountain village in north China, a group of elderly residents gather every day on their village square to practice yoga, come rain or shine. This unusual scene unfolds daily in Yugouliang Village, Zhangjiakou City, Hebei Province.
Through consistent yoga practice, these residents have not only enhanced their physical flexibility and spirits but have also discovered a unique path to overcoming poverty and achieving prosperity.
Elderly residents are seen in an undated photo practicing yoga in Yugouliang Village, Hebei Province. /IC
Yugouliang Village is located in a relatively remote area and only has about 100 permanent residents, most of whom are elderly. Many people have left to work elsewhere, and the 60-year-olds are considered young among the remaining population, who are often frail and sick.
Lu Wenzhen, a poverty alleviation official, introduced yoga to the village. Initially, Lu tried helping the residents sell their locally grown potatoes on social media. While they managed to sell some, the high shipping costs made it unsustainable.
An innovative way to alleviate poverty was needed, and Lu then realized that yoga could be part of the solution.
Two elderly residents are seen in an undated photo practicing yoga in Yugouliang Village, Hebei Province. /IC
After practicing yoga for a while, the residents found themselves more energetic and efficient in their farm work, and this led to some unexpected benefits. With improved health, the residents' medical expenses have decreased, and tourists have come to visit due to the village's growing reputation.
In 2017, Yugouliang Village was awarded the title of "China's First Yoga Village." This drew significant media attention, leading to interest online.