Qi Gong

The aim of my web site is to simplify the mystique of T’ai Chi. l leave the detailed theoretical, aesthetic and philosophical discussion to those more qualified to comment than I am. There are many specialist websites to choose from. Try some of the sites on my LINKS page to locate and point to further information.

Through Qi Gong the body’s strengths become harmonised and Chi flows freely cleansing and healing the body and spirit. According to Chinese understanding, illnesses are due to a block in the flow of Chi. Only when Chi can flow unhampered can a person be stable in terms of health.

Qi Gong is a series of simple static exercises, translated “Gong” means “Exercise”. Often used as a precursor to the T’ai Chi Forms, they promote the cultivation and control of Qi (Chi), and improves posture, breathing and concentration. They have been documented as beneficial for health and used for self healing reputedly for 3000 years.

My own belief is that control and flow of Chi stimulates endorphines, the body’s natural healer, (a process also evident in acupuncture and other comparable disciplines such as Reiki and Yoga).

There are several types of Qi Gong - for example:

Chan Mi - a meditative very internal form.

Quiet Qi Gong - as practiced by my classes with the very internal 5 Element form.

Yin Gang or Shibashi - an eighteen element aerobic form practiced for a long and healthy life.

Ba Duan Jin - the eight noble exercises or “eight strands of brocade”

Primordial Qi  Gong - a very internal  “Chi gathering”  based on a centuries-old  Dowist routine.

Performed seated or standing, my classes will normally start with a quiet meditative period in which students are encouraged to focus on deep yang breathing and to progressively relax and open all  joints.       

This will be followed by the 5-element Qi Gong, each movement performed repetitively then joined together as a sequential “form”.

Only then will we start our T’ai Chi Chuan Form  

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