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QIGONG INFO

Every living thing has qi, or prana, or life force. Qigong, pronounced chee kung, literally translates as working with qi (chee), that internal energy. Qigong blends breathing, posture, movement and the utilisation of acupuncture points to create single exercises and long, dance-like routines similar to Taijiquan (tai chi). The interesting thing about Qigong is that every routine is different, has its own flavour. Qigong is very ancient. The Kunlun Mountain system, also known as the Dayan Gong or Wild Goose system, can be dated back to 315 AD and the teachings of a monk called Si Dao An, the Peaceful Way. The system of movements and exercises was originated by Daoist hermits from the mystical Kun Lun Mountains, above the Himalayas, and evolved over the last fifteen centuries.

The Kunlun Mountains, North West China

One of the greatest Qigong masters of the modern period was Yang Mei Jun ("may jun" means plum blossom) who died a few years ago in Beijing aged well over a hundred. You've probably already seen her pic on the primary website. She was the 27th generation of the Kunlun lineage and possessed knowledge and skill that was almost supernatural. Her students included Master Tse Wei Jing (Michael Tse) who, since her death, has worked tirelessly to protect and preserve the Kunlun system. Michael Tse still teaches Julian Wilde, a senior student of his, who holds classes in Qigong and Taijiquan in the Norwich area.

Julian Wilde in Kunlun Qigong Pose

"Qi"

Qigong is not as well known as Taijiquan in the West, though its popularity is slowly growing, due to a greater number of teachers (of mixed quality it must be said!) and a burgeoning reputation as a life-enhancing pursuit, fascinating to learn, fun to practice and beautiful to watch.

Qigong is superb for improving, enhancing and sustaining health. From the internal organs, the brain and nervous system, to the muscles, tendons and joints, Qigong has a wide and deep effect on the body and mind. Regular practice can transform the student's life! As Qigong is also connected to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the Chinese philosophies of Daoism and Ryu Jia (teachings of Confucious), there is also an opportunity to learn much interesting, thought-provoking and potentially beneficial information. For example, one can learn all about the way energy circulates in the body through the jinglou (channels), how the same energy effects one's environment (feng shui), how our conduct creates and shapes our personal future (Buddhism) and how to relate to the world in a relaxed, sensitive and positive way (Daoism).

Though on the face of it just a physical exercise system, Qigong is a multi-faceted and profound subject, that can engage every part of our being.

The Jade Pillar form

In Qigong, the body is free to lean, twist and bend in ways that would be frowned upon in Taijiquan, so each routine has a theme, a unique flavour. The Wild Goose form features swooping and fluttering movements, while the Swimming Dragon is more stately and rolling. The Jade Pillar form, which is especially good for the spine, contains a lot of bending and twisting movements. The Healthy Slapping Gong we'll leave to your imagination!

"Recover Qi" posture from the famous Wild Goose Form

Another Wild Goose Posture

Every Qigong class begins with a special stretch and warm up, followed by instruction in the first series of single exercises, called Balancing Gong, which, as the name implies, balances the inner energies of the body. There are nine static Balancing Gong exercises and two walks. Everyone learns at their own pace in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Visitors who want to watch a class and ask questions before they attend on a regular basis, are always welcome.

Correcting "Peeping Monkey" posture                                                

Practicing Qigong Out In Nature