How to Practise Qigong

December 21, 2007 – 10:05 am

This short, flowing-movement exercise has the same qualities as a Taiji sequence, but it is beautiful sequence is based on the Five Elements of Chinese thought; it thus offers not only a relatively simple introduction to the flow of a movement exercise but also a link to one of the most powerful sets of symbolism in Chinese medicine.�? Regular practice of this sequence develops flexibility and suppleness by encouraging balanced Qi flow through the body.

Start in the classic Wu Chi posture (stage1 ) and hold your hand s in front of the lower Dantian. Imagine that you are holding a ball of fire in between your hands (stage 2 ). Hold this posture and focus your imagination for a couple of minutes - you are now ready to begin the Five Elements sequence.

Draw the ball of fire into the Dantian. The fire evaporates the water, which rises up to the heavens ( stage 3 ). The water then forms into clouds and condenses ( stage 4 ), falling as rain ( stages 5-7 ).

Qigong exercises are begun by adopting the classic opening posture. They rehearse in stages the story of the five elements transforming into each other in the cycle of the universe. A ball of fire eveporates the water, which rises to form clouds of rain to nourish the earth. Trees grow, move in the wind and die, yielding to minerals and metals. They strength from the universe is drawn inward and teh sequence ends as it began.

The rain nourishes the earth (stage 8 ) from which spring the seeds of the tree (stage 9 ).

The tree grows tall and strong and moves in the wind ( stage 10-12 ). Eventually the tree dies and the organic matter returns to nourish the earth (stage 13 ).

This decaying matter eventually forms minerals and metals that are drawn from the right side (stage 14 ) and the left side (stage 15 ).

The full cycle of the elements is completed as you open out to embrace the whole universe ( stage 16 and 17 ), and return the universe to your own Dantian (stage 18 ). The sequence ends in Wu Chi ( stage 19 ).

These sequences and protocols will, it is hoped, provide some insight into the wonderful world of Qigong and encourage you to find more information begin to integrate some very simple Qigong sequences into your lifestyle.

Among the thousands of Qigong sequences, postures, and protocols, it is often said by the Chinese themselves that the simple Standing Pole exercises represent the “royalty” of Qigong. If you practise these diligently, the benefits to your health and well-being will be remarkable.

Tags: practise, qingong