We begin with quiet sitting and a reading from the classics to clear away superficial stress. Class focus shifts periodically through a variety of qigong practices found to be highly effective in maintaining health, treating a various conditions, relieving stress and enhancing relaxation, balancing energy throughout the body, and restoring vitality and flexibility. Some topics: 18 Luohan Qigong (dynamic set said to be the basis of Shaolin gongfu, and dating from the 6th C), Five Animal Frolics Medical Qigong (a delightful set of over 40 exercises which strengthen organ function and enhance qi flow), Taiji Ball (a series of simple moves with hand-held spheres that coordinate and condition muscles and strengthen posture, root, and power), and Rising Lotus Medical Qigong (a lovely 10-movement set that gently encourages the flow of qi (energy) throughout the body, improves circulation in and around the spine and clears blockages in the organ systems).

Qigong (ch’i gong) refers to practices which cultivate personal energy. The Five Animal Frolics are a set of gentle exercises which imitate the spirit and movements of the crane, bear, monkey, deer, and tiger. Accompanied by deep, relaxed breathing, they have been practiced in China for 1800 years to strengthen organs, nerves, muscles, bones, to prevent and cure diseases, to promote balance and to celebrate life.

Qigong (ch'i gong) refers to movements matched with breath and mental focus designed to cultivate personal energy. The exercises we will study in this class are the traditional foundation of Shaolin martial arts, and since the 6th century have also been practiced for health, fitness, and spiritual practice. They promote flexibility, muscle tone, bone strength, deep breathing, relaxation, and genuine enjoyment of life.

T'ai-Chi Ch'uan (Taijiquan) is an ancient movement art practiced for health, relaxation, and self-defense. This class focuses on fundamentals of stance, alignment, and energy cultivation, as well as on learning the traditional Yang family style long form. Yang style is the most popular style of T'ai-Chi in the world, and is characterized by generous circles and smooth, strong postures.

This class provides an ongoing and varying experience in medical qigong, including Five Animal Play, Rising Lotus Qigong, the Six Healing Sounds, and other explorations. Five Animal Play (Wuqinxi) Qigong is divided into three sections: Crane/Bear, Monkey, and Deer/Tiger. This set is an excellent and delightful lifelong exercise, utilizing deep, smooth, breathing matched to movements that mimic the crane, bear, monkey, deer and tiger. The aim is to enhance the flow of qi (life energy), harmonize the five phases of change (fire, water, earth, wood, and metal), strengthen the internal organs, nerves, muscles, and bones, prevent and cure diseases, improve the health and vitality of body, mind, and spirit, and prolong life.

The Wu/Hao is one of the five major family styles of Taijiquan, derived from the early Chen and Yang styles by Wu Yuxiang, author of a major part of the traditional Taijiquan Classics. Wu/Hao is an understated, tranquil, meditative style, with small steps and subtle movements that disappear into formlessness and appear ordinary. It fosters “mind method”: internal focus and awareness through a concentration on breath and the opening and closing of energy gates. Dr. Jay studied this style privately with his primary teacher, Master Jou Tsung-Hwa. We will study Taiji Qigong, the 108-movement long form, two shorter choreographies (“Moonlight” and “Starlight”), and the “master key” exercises: Five Element Fajin and Eight Gates Walking Chansi.