Trofimova Mariia

Saint Petersburg University, Russia

Title: Psychophysical Conditioning as a Key to Active Longevity: Taiji and Qigong in the System of Social Adaptation for Older Adults

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Biography

Mariia Trofimova is a molecular biologist, geneticist, and Tai Chi master with a diverse background spanning scientific research, international business, and wellness practices.

She earned her degree from Saint Petersburg University, where she worked as a staff researcher. Her academic work focused on DNA recombination between bacterial transposons and yeast, as well as the regulation of translation suppressor genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Over the years, she has built extensive experience in both the scientific and business sectors.

In addition to her scientific career, Mariia has pursued interdisciplinary education with certifications in Digital Marketing (Udacity), Paleontology (University of Alberta), Sociology (University of Amsterdam), and Data Science with Python and SQL (IBM).

A dedicated practitioner of Tai Chi, she specializes in the Old Yang style and was awarded a gold medal at the 2025 China National Championship in Xi’an. Currently based in Germany, she leads a Tai Chi and Qigong group in Munich, promoting holistic health and well-being.

Abstract

Modern society is facing the urgent need to extend active working life to the age of 75–77. However, this goal cannot be achieved without systematic psychophysical preparation. The prevailing narrative — "old age is inevitable, and my abilities are in decline" — must be replaced by a more constructive one: "old age is not a sentence. I know what to do in order to live actively and contribute to society for many more years."

Comprehensive national programs should be developed to engage as many relatively healthy older adults as possible. These changes must begin early — with a revision of lifestyle patterns and the value systems associated with ageing.

This presentation introduces an approach based on Taiji and Qigong, traditional Eastern practices adapted for older adults. These methods support the development of emotional intelligence, balance, coordination, interoception, and cognitive function. A structured program is proposed: daily morning sessions of 1.5 to 2 hours, conducted in-person (as guided walks with exercise stops) or online. The content includes breathing exercises, meditation in motion, guided mental imagery (thought-forms), and adaptive physical routines.

Special attention is given to individualization, including protocols for people recovering from surgery, or living with Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis, or arthritis. The method has proven its effectiveness, including in the speaker’s personal practice: I am an active trainer with nearly 30 years of Taiji experience and the gold medalist of the 2025 international Taiji tournament in Xi’an (style: Old Yang).

The presentation is relevant to researchers and practitioners in the field of ageing and social change, as well as to organizers of applied programs for active ageing.