Windmill, or fan shen, is a kind of technique unique to classical Chinese dance. With the upper body tilted and arms stretched out, the windmill is basically a vertical version of turns. It comes with different variations, and with the traveling one, dancers would do many fan shen at once to get across the stage. When executing in high speed, it looks just like a high-speed windmill, and it’s exceptionally beautiful with water sleeves or holding brilliant dresses. | Shen Yun

Chinese windmill fan palm! What a pest! Dave’s got it under control for Weedy Wednesday #biosecurity #pestcontrol | Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council

For audience members less familiar with Chinese dance, the fanshen, or “windmill,” movements used extensively in Shen Yun’s performances can be an interesting sight to behold. People feel these look like propellers, electric fan blades, or are called by some, simply, “that helicopter move.” The “windmill” has many derivatives and applications in Chinese dance. It can be performed both as a transitional movement and as a standalone technique, producing an almost mesmerizing effect for the viewer.