The Big Picture: Reviving philosophy through Kung Fu

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At a time when there are seemingly more conflicts and discontent in the world, the focus has turned towards traditional culture.

One of the long withstanding cultures is Chinese Kung Fu. Kung Fu is more than the "action-packed" portrayal seen in movies.

The traditional culture is what Yu Yang, President of Beijing Xingwu Culture, seeks to achieve in the meditative shows he creates for public to watch – to enlighten, care for one’s heart and ultimately serve one’s spiritual soul.

Yu, who is also a producer and writer, derives his inspiration from the wisdom of China's philosophers.

Yu Yang, President of Beijing Xingwu Culture. /CGTN photo

“It has much practical significance for people today. Our impetuousness, loss of direction, helplessness and cowardice can all be relieved by taking something from it (Kung Fu),” he says.

But to Yu Yang, peace and harmony mean compromise.

“No matter who you are, we shake hands and forgive. Such a balance of power is what makes Chinese culture different from others. Chinese Kung Fu is always an art of balance,” he says.

But practicing Kung Fu isn’t just about the skill set, it is also about learning to purify the mind, body and spirit.

Yu Yang hopes this show – which includes meditative elements – is able to restore the philosophical meaning behind Kung Fu.

In the show, Kung Fu is intermingled with dance and poetry, giving it the power to speak and express, he says.

A Kung Fu performance by Yu Yang's team/CGTN photo

About 6,000 shows are slated to take place over the next 15 years. Named “9 Scrolls”, they will be staged at the Theatre of Meditation in Luoyang, western Henan Province.

Yu Yang’s aim is not so much about turning a profit but about sharing Chinese philosophy with the public and ensuring past values are not lost today.

This is especially crucial during China's ongoing explosive growth.

And this is also perhaps why the government is making efforts to revive these traditional cultures. “Traditional culture is a national treasure,” says Yu Yang.