Swinging on a spring day

Swinging (or simply swinging) is a long-standing folk game closely associated with the daily life and work of the Muong, Dao, and Cao Lan ethnic groups. This game is often played during New Year celebrations or annual festivals; it's a "spiritual treat" for the people to have fun, socialize, make friends, and find love, with the participation of many young men and women.

The ethnic minority people of Doan Hung district organize swing games during festivals and the Lunar New Year.

Swinging is usually held in a flat, spacious open area. In the middle of the open space, a sturdy bamboo swing, consisting of three main parts—the top (also called the upper swing, which connects the two support sections); the support (consisting of four large, sturdy bamboo poles buried deep in the ground in a tripod shape, converging at the top); and the body (a vertical rectangular frame with a footrest underneath for players to place their feet on)—is erected. In rural areas, the construction of the swing is usually entrusted to experienced middle-aged men. Once completed, the swing must undergo several rigorous inspections to ensure its sturdiness and ability to withstand the weight of the swingers and the force exerted during the swing.

Swinging has fairly simple rules and gameplay. To start, players stand on the swing rope, put one foot down to push off the ground for momentum, or have someone outside push the swing to gain momentum in the first swing. Once the swing is high in the air, players simply adjust their posture, grip the swing handle with both hands, and gently bounce with each swing to propel themselves upwards. The player who swings to the highest point (level with the top of the swing) or achieves the most high swings wins. There are two forms of swinging: single swing (1 person) and double swing (male - female).

Swinging, besides being a sport , is also a game that challenges the courage of players as they swing high and trains their agility and dexterity to swing rhythmically. Furthermore, swinging is also known as a "matchmaking" game, a way for many young men and women to find partners, because during the game, players need to coordinate well and rhythmically to swing high. Therefore, the game is not only attractive to participants but also captivates spectators who watch and cheer.

Mr. Dinh Van Chien (Vo Tranh commune, Ha Hoa district) said: "For the Muong people, swinging is not only a folk game for entertainment but also a way for people to express their wishes for a prosperous and happy new year, for all things to flourish, and for a bountiful harvest. The swing rising and falling, then soaring again into the air, symbolizes the interaction and operation of yin and yang, heaven and earth. With its profound humanistic value, swinging is a beautiful cultural feature that holds significant meaning in the lives of the people in my hometown, bringing joy and excitement to everyone. If we don't get to play on the swing, the holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year) wouldn't be truly complete."

Coeval

Source: https://baophutho.vn/danh-du-ngay-xuan-227574.htm