Instructor Rao Qiuyu (front) leads a yoga class before the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. CHINA DAILY

Engaging more enthusiasts

Chen Yongmin is one of them. The 28-year-old works at an international technology company in Shanghai. She started practicing yoga in October by joining a studio class that begins at 7 am every morning.

"It was not easy for me, since I used to stay up late at night and get up at around 8 am in the morning," recalls Chen. She nearly gave up at first. Gradually, though, she began to appreciate its benefits.

"Focusing on yoga helped me concentrate on the positive, especially now, during the epidemic. I feel more energetic after practice and can work with more efficiency," she says.

After 100 days of practice, she found herself able to do a difficult headstand, and felt her body getting stronger.