On all fours or off to a wilderness retreat? How Hongkongers are reclaiming their calm
In the final instalment of the Health Matters wellness series on Hong Kong’s growing wellness trends, Emily Hung examines alternative therapies helping residents restore their balance, as practitioners stress that small, conscious moments can make the biggest difference. For Hong Kong film practitioner Ngai Tsz-wai, peace of mind begins on all fours. The 40-year-old practises animal flow, a…
Hong Kong residents are exploring various alternative therapies to regain balance and calm amidst high-pressure careers. One such therapy is animal flow, a movement system that blends yoga, dance, gymnastics, and martial arts, practiced by 40-year-old Ngai Tsz-wai. Ngai credits this practice for improving strength, flexibility, and coordination, as well as fostering a stronger connection between his body and mind.
Ngai's wellness journey began a decade ago when he started attending yoga classes. Over time, he incorporated meditation, breathwork, journaling, and nature retreats into his routine, emphasizing that beginning each day with meditation helps maintain clarity and grounding in the face of external influences.
In response to the growing demand for wellness practices, wellness practitioner Zero Chan launched Island Within on the tranquil Peng Chau island. This retreat offers a progressive journey through gentle yoga, qigong, sound baths, and meditative exercises such as flower arrangement, calligraphy, and reflection card games. Chan believes that becoming aware of anxiety allows individuals to make conscious choices in response, rewiring neural pathways and reducing reactive behavior.
For those seeking a more radical transformation, Bhakti Wong, a somatic psychotherapist and yoga instructor, leads retreats in Mongolia and plans one in Finland. These immersive experiences, lasting seven to nine days, take place in yurt camps with no Wi-Fi, electricity, or running water. The light itinerary includes activities like horse riding, river rafting, archery, or shamanic ceremonies, providing ample time for rest and reflection.
Alternatively, for those with limited time or resources, Hong Kong residents are turning to cinema as a cathartic escape and a means to uncover underlying emotions. Counselling psychologist Jasmin Fong Ting explains that films can act as an "affect bridge," connecting viewers to emotions they may have suppressed subconsciously. This form of cinematherapy offers a unique way for individuals to explore their feelings and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post - Hong Kong's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
