A Transformative Journey Begins

Picture this: 38-year-old Zero Chan steps onto a serene beach on Peng Chau, an island tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. Unrolling her yoga mat and arranging a lineup of singing bowls, she prepares for a yoga session that transcends the ordinary. Once immersed in the stressful world of film production, Chan made a life-altering decision in 2020, leaving her high-octane career behind to embrace a soothing new path as a wellness yoga and sound bath instructor.

Finding Serenity in Solitude

In an exclusive chat with Lianhe Zaobao, Chan reflected on her initial days on Peng Chau: "The moment you step off the ferry, the sea envelops you. It naturally slows your thoughts and movements. Here, I can pause, reflect, and escape the relentless demands of city life." This island, a mere 40-minute ferry journey away from the busy city, offers a simple existence—no cars, just bicycles, a handful of eateries, and the charm of old shops.

The Appeal of Peng Chau

With around 6,000 residents, Peng Chau has become a sanctuary for professionals and artists seeking solace. Chan finds her sea-view home a spiritual haven—a tranquil retreat for others to recharge before embarking on their life journeys.

Catalysts for Change

The tumultuous anti-extradition protests of 2019 and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unparalleled uncertainty to Hong Kong. Yet, these challenges also ignited a movement of introspection, leading many—including Chan—to discover the peace of places like Peng Chau. After her film career came to a halt, Chan traveled to India to explore Buddhism, only to return home amidst the pandemic, driven by her quest for authenticity.

A Rising Interest in Island Life

William Shum, a long-time resident, noted a surge of pandemic-weary urbanites flocking to the island, yearning for a lifestyle steeped in nature. In 2020 alone, residential sales surged by an astonishing 28.5%, with more locals choosing island life for space and serenity.

Healing Through Yoga

Now, Chan is on a mission to help urbanites navigate their emotional landscape. "The emotions of 2019 and 2020—feelings of sadness and frustration—linger beneath the surface. If we confront these feelings, we can release them," she explains passionately.

A Community Connected by Simplicity

Shum echoes this sentiment as he embraces a philosophy of 'decluttering' life on the limited-space island. Challenges arise—some young newcomers leave after a short while, unable to adapt to the island’s slower pace and ferry-dependent transportation. For long-term residents, however, it fosters a cherished community.

Preserving Local Culture

Kit Chan, an independent bookstore owner, opened his shop to weave the fabric of local identity into the island’s cultural tapestry. His bookstore not only serves the community but also provokes thought about what it means to be a Hong Konger today.

Hope for Hong Kong's Future

Looking ahead, Kit remains cautiously optimistic. "Hong Kong has always had its ups and downs. It's hard to gauge the long-term impact of individual initiatives, but many are stepping up, and I chose to invest in our culture through books."

A Spiritual Refuge Awaits

Despite its challenges, Peng Chau stands out as a beacon of tranquility. For residents like Chan, it has become more than just a home; it’s a healing sanctuary. "Peng Chau has revitalized me, giving me the chance to reorder my life and reconnect with my roots in the city," she reveals.