Yoga is becoming very popular in China, especially among the youth in big cities. Yoga is seen as offering a way out from the stresses and strains of everyday life. It is seen increasingly as the best way to obtain mental and physical relaxation. Yoga Centres are to be found everywhere, from Beijing to Guanzhou to Shanghai. Many of these Centres are run by Chinese themselves, some of whom may have attended short-term programs in India. Some of these Centres offer Teachers training programs helping to spread Yoga practices even more. But many Centres depend on Indian masters to offer the authentic Yoga practices. Indian teachers face the usual problems faced by migrants everywhere: food, language and culture often act as barriers to dedicated involvement in Chinese life. But, increasingly, Yoga is seen as a bridge between the two ancient cultures, and a way to bring people together in these troubled times.
Yogic practices are universally known to bring health and happiness to regular practitioners, and the Chinese people are not exceptions to this rule. In 2005, the first ever Yoga show and Exhibition was organized in China. The event, which was sponsored by Electronic Appliance Corporation (CEAC) was a great success. The three-day program, which attracted many Indian experts, provided Chinese people an opportunity to explore and learn about traditional Yogic living. The event had its commercial aspects, too: many Chinese and foreign exhibitors showcased their Yoga-related products.
