The travel guide
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China: Between rituals and cultural traditions
China and its universe, as mysterious as it is legendary, one of the oldest civilizations in the history of the world. Between almost futuristic megalopolises like Hong-Kong and Shanghai; historic villages and countryside, or places in the heart of rice fields and natural landscapes like Yunnan. China is full of breathtaking places and places full of stories where rituals and cultural traditions mingle.
Traditional Chinese massages
It is one of the five pillars of Chinese medicine. Traditional massage is called Tui Na ("Tui" meaning "push" and "Na" meaning "grasp"). A true ritual, it encompasses more than 300 techniques used according to the body's needs. This tradition offers benefits for both body and mind : it helps harmonize energies, stimulate the body's immune system, revitalize the body, improve sleep, and calm the mind.
Art in China: calligraphy, painting, ceramics, porcelain, music…
Art holds a significant place in Chinese culture. For example, calligraphy is considered one of the four major artistic disciplines. Writing is much more than a means of communication; it is a form of painting, an art that allows one to express their ideas. Painting is also closely linked to calligraphy. Chinese paintings are often created on silk or paper and are not framed as they are in the West. Indeed, each art form is often interconnected: calligraphy is linked to painting, and painting to silk work. Each art form leads to something new, and this is the magic of Chinese culture.
Chinese martial arts
China is undoubtedly the country where martial arts are most prevalent in the world. This art is an integral part of Chinese culture. Kung Fu and Tai Chi Chuan are a true way of life ; they are much more than a means of self-defense. This art is practiced both for health and to help control energy and promote the proper flow of Qi. It is an art of transmission and values , the perfect harmony between body and mind.
Meals in China, a moment of sharing and respect
Chinese dishes are full of tastes and flavors, each more different than the next: a real culinary richness. As in any other country, there is in China, conventions related to the way of eating. For example, it is frowned upon to plant your chopsticks vertically in your rice bowl, this is synonymous with death.
Also in the restaurants, we share the different dishes that are on the table, each is served in the dish he wants. China is full of culinary traditions, like for example, on his birthday the tradition is to eat hot noodles (symbols of longevity) and eggs (symbols of happiness).
The ritual of the tea ceremony
The tea ceremony existed for over 400 years in China, it is called "Gong Fu Cha", which means
"Take time for tea". This preparation ritual is practiced daily by the Chinese, but is also considered an art when practiced by tea masters. This ceremony consists in revealing all the aromas of the tea by preparing in a few moments a very concentrated tea. The instruments used take an important place in this ritual. Indeed, the teapot for example is extremely important; we prefer it in terracotta to keep the heat and all the aromas of the tea.
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