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Today is my birthday and we said goodbye to Wudang which is basking in glorious sunshine. But not before there were a few treats in store.
Tary mentioned the night before that we would travel down the mountain early so we could meet the head of Wushu on Wudang Mountain - Mr Shou. We were meant to meet up with him before the Kungfu show in Carefree Valley but we arrived too late so it was rearranged for this morning. Once we were down the mountain and in the town we then discovered that he wanted us to meet him at the Wudang International Wushu Exchange Center. He arranged a bus for us and it took a short while to arrive and a bit longer to find our way in! It is a very impressive modern building.
We were greeted by him and he explained something about the centre then took us through to the hall where demonstrations and competitions take place. The ceiling has a massive yin yang symbol on it - too big to photograph unfortunately.
We were introduced to seven people who included world champions and teachers. They introduced themselves and stated what they specialised in - from Wudang Tai Chi to health preservation exercises. They then each did demonstrations starting with a group Tai Chi form. Absolutely beautiful. Some demonstrations were similar to some seen at the Kungfu show - very lively and fast but when one of the women came on and did Qigong she filled the room (and this was a massive room to fill) with Qi and a meditative silence descended. I can't explain it any better than that.
We were then invited to do the 24 form in front of them. So myself and Andrew stood at the front and our students behind us, we demonstrated the form. I am so proud of the students because it was a huge honour and pressure but they were magnificent. It was the best birthday present and totally unexpected. We were originally meant to be shopping! We then had some photos taken. Tary presented a gift to Mr Shou and we then departed. I think it was a highlight for us all and on my birthday - I certainly won't forget this.
We then headed back for lunch and once we were finished the next surprise appeared - a stunning birthday cake and everyone singing happy birthday. The cake tasted as good as it looked (past tense).
We are now aboard the coach heading for Xian. Lily decided to teach us a song in Chinese so after learning the words the tune was added - it was happy birthday!!
A brilliant morning - I couldn't have wished for better. Now looking forward to the Terracotta Warriors but missing Wudang already.
- comments
Hazel Basford What a memorable birthday. And what a special treat for everyone! Tales of the traffic bring back memories of our last trip..... I am really enjoying your blog. I will certainly do one in October.