QI GONG
Essential to Traditional Chinese Medicine is the concept of the ‘Three Treasures’, Jing (Body/Essence), Qi (Energy) and Shen (Spirit).
Qi Gong (also, Chi Kung) is the discipline devoted to develop understanding, awareness and control of one’s own three treasures. Qi Gong exists in many manifestations, however primarily involves some form of meditation combined with stretching and strengthening exercises. Qi Gong practice is also known as ‘internal training’, and Martial Arts that incorporate a large Qi Gong component, are often referred to as ‘internal Martial Arts’. Importantly, Qi Gong is best practised under the guidance of an Instructor.
Qi Gong is practised to improve mental and physical health and well being. It is also essential in building a foundation for all Chinese Martial Arts.
Our practice of Qi Gong has been passed down through the Liu He Men & Zi Ran Men system’s. It has been refined over many generations by Masters throughout the lineage. Shifu Stuart is a Qi Gong devotee and trains in the traditional Shaolin and Liu He / Zi Ran Men Qi Gong sets within the SHMA system. By observing the ancient traditions and practices of Qi Gong, we encourage our students to practice in a relaxed, harmonious and natural state of flow.
Below we outline some of the major components of SHMA Qi Gong.
Standing Meditation
As well as the specific standing postures that go with each of the internal Martial Arts, there are a series of universal postures which strengthen the energy flows within the body, build stamina and develop good physical posture and relaxation.
Seated Meditation
There are a wide variety of purposes for seated meditation – stilling the mind, regulating the flow of energy, relaxing the body’s habitual tensions and finding stillness to help balance ones emotions.
Five Element Qi Gong
The Daoist’s believe that there are five basic energies which make up the universe. These five elements are also found within the body and relate to specific organs. Five Element Qi Gong set, which works to balance and purify these elements within the body.
Qian Ba Zhuan
Zi Ran Men ‘1008 Movement Qi Gong’. Developed to stretch the tendons, stimulate the flow of blood and Qi, and to lighten the body.
Ai Dang Bu
Zi Ran Men ‘Lower Hip Step’. Disperses heart fire, opens the body’s meridians and brightens the vision.
Shaolin Ba Duan Jin
Shaolin Temple Ba Duan Jin is a set of eight postures developed to help regulate internal organs and to balance yin & yang.
