US Students Participate in Martial Arts Exchange in Shenyang

A group of students and teachers from Northeastern Illinois University recently participated in a cultural exchange trip to Shenyang, China, where they experienced traditional Chinese martial arts performances, deepening their appreciation of Chinese culture. In Henan Province, Shaolin monks continue to preserve and demonstrate legendary martial arts skills such as erzhichan, showcasing extraordinary strength and balance. The serene Songshan Mountains provide a natural setting for Shaolin kung fu practice, blending the art's graceful movements with the rhythms of nature. Additionally, international enthusiasts like Swiss kungfu practitioner Joel Achermann have committed years to training at the Shaolin Temple and contributed to translating ancient martial arts texts into English, facilitating global understanding of the tradition. Meanwhile, in South Korea, the Golgulsa Templestay offers visitors an immersive experience in seonmudo, a meditative martial art combining spiritual practice, yoga, and combat techniques, highlighting the broader East Asian heritage of martial arts intertwined with meditation and health benefits.