Developed during the Northern Song Dynasty, the Baduanjin is a dynamic form of Tai Chi Qigong. Comprising eight sections of different movements, it is a combination of body-building, healing and rehabilitative exercises, featuring graceful and soft postures, simple and elegant movements, dynamic and static combination, and the tempering of force with grace. The Baduanjin has the function of dredging meridians and regulating human internal organs. The ancient Chinese described the set of movements as “brocade” because they are as graceful and smooth as a piece of brocade.

During its spreading, the Baduanjin split into the south and north sects. The south sect, called “Wen Baduan” (literally, civil eight sections), is a seated set of eight postures – most of them soft, therefore also known as “Seated Baduanjin.” Involving a small amount of movement, it is appropriate to be exercised in underwear before getting up or going to sleep. The north sect, called “Wu Baduan” (literally, military eight sections), is practiced primarily in a forceful way on Ma Bu (horse stance), thus also known as “Standing Baduanjin.” Involving a large amount of movement, this sect is appropriate to be exercised by people of all ages in different physical conditions.