chi-kung training

These exercises help to regulate the functions of the spleen and stomach; help to establish peace and harmony within; and develop working efficient muscles, ligaments and tendons. They also aid chi circulation through the internal organs.Continuous smooth breathing during training helps to balance and restore the heart energy by ‘putting out the fire’ (the lungs are loosened and excessive chi from the heart is regulated). When the legs are strong the entire body is strong.

Shaolin Qigong

A wonderful set of qigong postures with fluid horizontal and vertical movements including reeling silk and four basic loosening up exercises.

Wudang Qigong

Group dynamic exercises, internal organ stretching.

Emphasis of chi kung classes

The aim is to strengthen internal organs, unblock energy meridians (pathways) and to facilitate the flow of vital fluids through the body, by relaxing, attention to posture, releasing, alignment, balance and co-ordination. The practice of specific exercises which lead to an accumulation of chi in the dantian (centre of the body approximately one and a quarter inches below the navel) which with practice can be directed to heal and solidify bones and nourish the internal organs.

Calm and relaxed breathing with movement, meditation and visualization all help to establish a strong constitution, physical, mental and emotional well being. Opening and closing of joints and gates allows energy to gather and for the body to heal. The practice of chi kung (qigong) can also lead to a practical understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese history, and religious beliefs

medical qigong

The eight pieces of brocade’ exercises strengthen and develop the internal organs.
Qigong, which consists of gentle twisting of the internal organs helps to balance the body. These principles apply to Pa Kua also. Training in qigong is the continuous opening and closing of the joints, which allows energy to travel freely through the body where healing takes place.

breath and movement.

I include exercises from these different systems in my teaching of taiji as a means of introducing students to qigong and as a complementary bridge between the two arts.

Once introduced, students who wish to pursue qigong solely are encouraged to investigate other schools which teach it exclusive!