Hongkongers use their wellness skills to benefit others for next to nothing
The wellness industry is taking off around the world, but some Hongkongers are using their skills to benefit friends, and even strangers, for next to nothing
Wellness has certainly become big business. Euromonitor, a research group, predicts the global health and wellness industry will reach a record high of US$1 trillion in global sales by 2017, and Hong Kong is no exception to the trend. Each week brings a new outdoor fitness class, a studio opening, or organic restaurant.
But some Hongkongers are shunning big business in favour of food and fitness made by friends for friends. Keeping it small, simple and affordable, these community health leaders are championing a healthy new way of living. Inspired to share his passion for yoga, private teacher Marcus Wong began offering pay-as-you-wish group classes six months ago in sports centres around Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.
From time to time, I donate all my class profits to charities or individuals that I believe in
"In private yoga, you put all your attention into an individual, and only one person benefits," says 37-year-old Wong. "But I believe that everyone should be able to experience yoga in their own bodies and minds."
True to his philosophy, Wong now offers weekly community classes, from beginner's sun salutations and yin yoga, to more energetic Ashtanga or power yoga classes for advanced students. He also organises musicians to play live classical music during his classes.
What started as a small gathering of family and friends has since grown into a vibrant yoga community. His Facebook page has more than 700 devotees, and his classes now attract up to 40 students each time.
There is no set fee, and students pay what they think the class is worth, and what they can afford. "I think that's the true spirit of community. You are catering for everybody's needs, and adapting to everybody's spending power," he says.