Sunday, February 26, 2012
What is Qi Gong?
Qigong is an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention.
The word Qigong (Chi Kung) is made up of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced chee and is usually translated to mean the life force or vital-energy that flows through all things in the universe.
The second word, Gong, pronounced gung, means accomplishment, or skill that is cultivated through steady practice. Together, Qigong (Chi Kung) means cultivating energy, it is a system practiced for health maintenance, healing and increasing vitality.
Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions.
Qigong practices can be classified as martial, medical, or spiritual. All styles have three things in common: they all involve a posture, (whether moving or stationary), breathing techniques, and mental focus. Some practices increase the Qi; others circulate it, use it to cleanse and heal the body, store it, or emit Qi to help heal others. Practices vary from the soft internal styles such as Tai Chi; to the external, vigorous styles such as Kung Fu. However, the slow gentle movements of most Qigong forms can be easily adapted, even for the physically challenged and can be practiced by all age groups.
Like any other system of health care, Qigong is not a panacea, but it is certainly a highly effective health care practice. Many health care professionals recommend Qigong as an important form of alternative complementary medicine.
Qigong creates an awareness of and influences dimensions of our being that are not part of traditional exercise programs. Most exercises do not involve the meridian system used in acupuncture nor do they emphasize the importance of adding mind intent and breathing techniques to physical movements. When these dimensions are added, the benefits of exercise increase exponentially.
The gentle, rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.
Those who maintain a consistent practice of Qigong find that it helps one regain a youthful vitality, maintain health even into old age and helps speed recovery from illness. Western scientific research confirms that Qigong reduces hypertension and the incidence of falling in the aged population. One of the more important long-term effects is that Qigong reestablishes the body/mind/soul connection.
People do Qigong to maintain health, heal their bodies, calm their minds, and reconnect with their spirit.
When these three aspects of our being are integrated, it encourages a positive outlook on life and helps eliminate harmful attitudes and behaviors. It also creates a balanced life style, which brings greater harmony, stability, and enjoyment
There are a wide variety of Qigong practices. They vary from the simple, internal forms to the more complex and challenging external styles. They can interest and benefit everyone, from the most physically challenged to the super athlete. There are Qigong classes for children, senior citizens, and every age group in between. Since Qigong can be practiced anywhere or at any time, there is no need to buy special clothing or to join a health club.
Qigong's great appeal is that everyone can benefit, regardless of ability, age, belief system or life circumstances.
Anyone can enrich their lives by adding Qigong to their daily routine. Children learning to channel their energy and develop increased concentration; office workers learning Qigong to reduce stress; seniors participating in gentle movements to enhance balance and their quality of life; caregivers embracing a practice to develop their ability to help others; prisons instituting Qigong programs to restore balance in inmates lives; midwives using Qigong techniques to ease child birth.
When an individual or group assumes responsibility and takes action for their health and healing, we all benefit. It is best to get referrals from people whose judgment you have confidence in. Check the Yellow Pages for Tai Chi schools, acupuncturists, or martial art academies. The National Qigong Association member directory is also an excellent source for finding instructors.
Keep in mind the following criteria for choosing a qualified instructor: what is their background and experience; are they of good character; do they treat everyone fairly and with respect; do they live what they teach; do they refrain from making wild, unsubstantiated claims; do they encourage and bring out a student's highest potential? While keeping these points in mind, remember to trust your intuition in finding an instructor who is right for you.
How can I learn if there aren't any teachers near me?If there are no instructors in your area, many teachers regularly travel to give workshops in all regions of the country. Many excellent instructional books and videos are also available.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the many resources available for learning Qigong. The internet is one of the best tools today for learning about Qigong.
Seek referrals in your area and visit local classes. Attending the annual NQA conference also provides an introduction to many styles of Qigong and practitioners from around the world.
After you have looked into some of these resources, find a style you feel comfortable with, and develop a consistent daily practice. It is recommended by experienced teachers to stay with a form for at least 100 days. A consistent practice is the most important asset you can develop.
When beginners ask, "What is the most important aspect of practicing Qigong?" The answer is always..."just do it."
The National Qigong Association does not use nor recognize the terms Master and Grandmaster.
http://nqa.org/resources/what-is-qigong/
The word Qigong (Chi Kung) is made up of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced chee and is usually translated to mean the life force or vital-energy that flows through all things in the universe.
The second word, Gong, pronounced gung, means accomplishment, or skill that is cultivated through steady practice. Together, Qigong (Chi Kung) means cultivating energy, it is a system practiced for health maintenance, healing and increasing vitality.
Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions.
Qigong practices can be classified as martial, medical, or spiritual. All styles have three things in common: they all involve a posture, (whether moving or stationary), breathing techniques, and mental focus. Some practices increase the Qi; others circulate it, use it to cleanse and heal the body, store it, or emit Qi to help heal others. Practices vary from the soft internal styles such as Tai Chi; to the external, vigorous styles such as Kung Fu. However, the slow gentle movements of most Qigong forms can be easily adapted, even for the physically challenged and can be practiced by all age groups.
Like any other system of health care, Qigong is not a panacea, but it is certainly a highly effective health care practice. Many health care professionals recommend Qigong as an important form of alternative complementary medicine.
Qigong creates an awareness of and influences dimensions of our being that are not part of traditional exercise programs. Most exercises do not involve the meridian system used in acupuncture nor do they emphasize the importance of adding mind intent and breathing techniques to physical movements. When these dimensions are added, the benefits of exercise increase exponentially.
The gentle, rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.
Those who maintain a consistent practice of Qigong find that it helps one regain a youthful vitality, maintain health even into old age and helps speed recovery from illness. Western scientific research confirms that Qigong reduces hypertension and the incidence of falling in the aged population. One of the more important long-term effects is that Qigong reestablishes the body/mind/soul connection.
People do Qigong to maintain health, heal their bodies, calm their minds, and reconnect with their spirit.
When these three aspects of our being are integrated, it encourages a positive outlook on life and helps eliminate harmful attitudes and behaviors. It also creates a balanced life style, which brings greater harmony, stability, and enjoyment
There are a wide variety of Qigong practices. They vary from the simple, internal forms to the more complex and challenging external styles. They can interest and benefit everyone, from the most physically challenged to the super athlete. There are Qigong classes for children, senior citizens, and every age group in between. Since Qigong can be practiced anywhere or at any time, there is no need to buy special clothing or to join a health club.
Qigong's great appeal is that everyone can benefit, regardless of ability, age, belief system or life circumstances.
Anyone can enrich their lives by adding Qigong to their daily routine. Children learning to channel their energy and develop increased concentration; office workers learning Qigong to reduce stress; seniors participating in gentle movements to enhance balance and their quality of life; caregivers embracing a practice to develop their ability to help others; prisons instituting Qigong programs to restore balance in inmates lives; midwives using Qigong techniques to ease child birth.
When an individual or group assumes responsibility and takes action for their health and healing, we all benefit. It is best to get referrals from people whose judgment you have confidence in. Check the Yellow Pages for Tai Chi schools, acupuncturists, or martial art academies. The National Qigong Association member directory is also an excellent source for finding instructors.
Keep in mind the following criteria for choosing a qualified instructor: what is their background and experience; are they of good character; do they treat everyone fairly and with respect; do they live what they teach; do they refrain from making wild, unsubstantiated claims; do they encourage and bring out a student's highest potential? While keeping these points in mind, remember to trust your intuition in finding an instructor who is right for you.
How can I learn if there aren't any teachers near me?If there are no instructors in your area, many teachers regularly travel to give workshops in all regions of the country. Many excellent instructional books and videos are also available.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the many resources available for learning Qigong. The internet is one of the best tools today for learning about Qigong.
Seek referrals in your area and visit local classes. Attending the annual NQA conference also provides an introduction to many styles of Qigong and practitioners from around the world.
After you have looked into some of these resources, find a style you feel comfortable with, and develop a consistent daily practice. It is recommended by experienced teachers to stay with a form for at least 100 days. A consistent practice is the most important asset you can develop.
When beginners ask, "What is the most important aspect of practicing Qigong?" The answer is always..."just do it."
The National Qigong Association does not use nor recognize the terms Master and Grandmaster.
http://nqa.org/resources/what-is-qigong/
I Ching Reading: "Soulmates"
Sunday, February 26th, 2012 11:49am PST
Your Present Hexagram
The cooking pot symbolizes nourishment and rejuvenation. Sooner or later, good comes to those who do good; joy comes to those who bring humor to others; opportunity comes to those who persist in their dreaming. Rejuvenation is a returning to innate desires -- and a re-charging of batteries through the fulfillment of these wishes. This reading suggests nourishment and transformation for people of goodwill. Great good fortune and success are indicated for nourishing relationships. Healthy, regular sustenance is important, as symbolized by the cooking pot, which provides nourishment to all. When a cycle of humanity reaches its peak, each person's sustenance comes in the form of his or her deepest desires and highest aspirations. Rejuvenation means that men and women of talent and insight are being properly nourished and valued. When relationships are functioning properly, such people are supported, and feel encouraged to contribute. A fresh approach to old habits is indicated in a period of rejuvenation. Look for ways of putting new life into your relationships, for only when great vitality is present can they rise to a higher level.
Your Present Hexagram
The cooking pot symbolizes nourishment and rejuvenation. Sooner or later, good comes to those who do good; joy comes to those who bring humor to others; opportunity comes to those who persist in their dreaming. Rejuvenation is a returning to innate desires -- and a re-charging of batteries through the fulfillment of these wishes. This reading suggests nourishment and transformation for people of goodwill. Great good fortune and success are indicated for nourishing relationships. Healthy, regular sustenance is important, as symbolized by the cooking pot, which provides nourishment to all. When a cycle of humanity reaches its peak, each person's sustenance comes in the form of his or her deepest desires and highest aspirations. Rejuvenation means that men and women of talent and insight are being properly nourished and valued. When relationships are functioning properly, such people are supported, and feel encouraged to contribute. A fresh approach to old habits is indicated in a period of rejuvenation. Look for ways of putting new life into your relationships, for only when great vitality is present can they rise to a higher level.
I Ching
The I Ching has been used for more than 5000 years as an aid to making decisions, predicting the future, etc. So, if nothing else, it is a long-standing and popular source of wisdom and inspiration.
Our descriptions are based on the output of the Unix ching(6) program. There are a number of books on the I Ching. Wu Wei, in particular, has published several with Power Press.
To see a randomly selected I Ching,
Notes:
This page is also available sorted by pattern. There is also an icon-oriented I Ching Square, but it takes a while to ship over our WWW connection. The icon at the top of each page listed below links to the hexagram's opposite. That is, "Ch'ien" (1) and "K'un" (2) are cross-linked.
Visit www.facade.com/attraction/iching/ for a computer-generated I Ching reading, a paper on I Ching, etc.
Patterns:
1
999999
Ch'ien - The Creative
2
666666
K'un - The Receptive
3
966696
Chun - Difficulty at the Beginning
4
696669
Mêng - Youthful Folly
5
999696
Hsu - Waiting (Nourishment)
6
696999
Sung - Conflict
7
696666
Shih - The Army
8
666696
Pi - Holding Together [Union]
9
999699
Hsiao Ch'u - The Taming Power of the Small
10
996999
Lu - Treading [Conduct]
11
999666
T'ai - Peace
12
666999
P'i - Standstill [Stagnation]
13
969999
T'ung Jên - Fellowship with Men
14
999969
Ta Yu - Possession in Great Measure
15
669666
Ch'ien - Modesty
16
666966
Yu - Enthusiasm
17
966996
Sui - Following
18
699669
Ku - Work on What Has Been Spoiled [Decay]
19
996666
Lin - Approach
20
666699
Kuan - Contemplation (View)
21
966969
Shih Ho - Biting Through
22
969669
Pi - Grace
23
666669
Po - Splitting Apart
24
966666
Fu - Return (The Turning Point)
25
966999
Wu Wang - Innocence (The Unexpected)
26
999669
Ta Ch'u - The Taming Power of the Great
27
966669
I - The Corners of the Mouth (Providing Nourishment)
28
699996
Ta Kuo - Preponderance of the Great
29
696696
K'an - The Abysmal (Water)
30
969969
Li - The Clinging, Fire
31
669996
Hsien - Influence (Wooing)
32
699966
Hêng - Duration
33
669999
Tun - Retreat
34
999966
Ta Chuang - The Power of the Great
35
666969
Chin - Progress
36
969666
Ming I - Darkening of the Light
37
969699
Chia Jên - The Family [The Clan]
38
996969
K'uei - Opposition
39
669696
Chien - Obstruction
40
696966
Hsieh - Deliverance
41
996669
Sun - Decrease
42
966699
I - Increase
43
999996
Kuai - Break-through (Resoluteness)
44
699999
Kou - Coming to Meet
45
666996
Ts'ui - Gathering Together [Massing]
46
699666
Shêng - Pushing Upward
47
696996
K'un - Oppression (Exhaustion)
48
699696
Ching - The Well
49
969996
Ko - Revolution (Molting)
50
699969
Ting - The Caldron
51
966966
Chên - The Arousing (Shock, Thunder)
52
669669
Kên - Keeping Still, Mountain
53
669699
Chien - Development (Gradual Progress)
54
996966
Kuei Mei - The Marrying Maiden
55
969966
Fêng - Abundance [Fullness]
56
669969
Lu - The Wanderer
57
699699
Sun - The Gentle (The Penetrating, Wind)
58
996996
Tui - The Joyous, Lake
59
696699
Huan - Dispersion [Dissolution]
60
996696
Chieh - Limitation
61
996699
Chung Fu - Inner Truth
62
669966
Hsiao Kuo - Preponderance of the Small
63
969696
Chi Chi - After Completion
64
696969
Wei Chi - Before Completion
Our descriptions are based on the output of the Unix ching(6) program. There are a number of books on the I Ching. Wu Wei, in particular, has published several with Power Press.
To see a randomly selected I Ching,
Notes:
This page is also available sorted by pattern. There is also an icon-oriented I Ching Square, but it takes a while to ship over our WWW connection. The icon at the top of each page listed below links to the hexagram's opposite. That is, "Ch'ien" (1) and "K'un" (2) are cross-linked.
Visit www.facade.com/attraction/iching/ for a computer-generated I Ching reading, a paper on I Ching, etc.
Patterns:
1
999999
Ch'ien - The Creative
2
666666
K'un - The Receptive
3
966696
Chun - Difficulty at the Beginning
4
696669
Mêng - Youthful Folly
5
999696
Hsu - Waiting (Nourishment)
6
696999
Sung - Conflict
7
696666
Shih - The Army
8
666696
Pi - Holding Together [Union]
9
999699
Hsiao Ch'u - The Taming Power of the Small
10
996999
Lu - Treading [Conduct]
11
999666
T'ai - Peace
12
666999
P'i - Standstill [Stagnation]
13
969999
T'ung Jên - Fellowship with Men
14
999969
Ta Yu - Possession in Great Measure
15
669666
Ch'ien - Modesty
16
666966
Yu - Enthusiasm
17
966996
Sui - Following
18
699669
Ku - Work on What Has Been Spoiled [Decay]
19
996666
Lin - Approach
20
666699
Kuan - Contemplation (View)
21
966969
Shih Ho - Biting Through
22
969669
Pi - Grace
23
666669
Po - Splitting Apart
24
966666
Fu - Return (The Turning Point)
25
966999
Wu Wang - Innocence (The Unexpected)
26
999669
Ta Ch'u - The Taming Power of the Great
27
966669
I - The Corners of the Mouth (Providing Nourishment)
28
699996
Ta Kuo - Preponderance of the Great
29
696696
K'an - The Abysmal (Water)
30
969969
Li - The Clinging, Fire
31
669996
Hsien - Influence (Wooing)
32
699966
Hêng - Duration
33
669999
Tun - Retreat
34
999966
Ta Chuang - The Power of the Great
35
666969
Chin - Progress
36
969666
Ming I - Darkening of the Light
37
969699
Chia Jên - The Family [The Clan]
38
996969
K'uei - Opposition
39
669696
Chien - Obstruction
40
696966
Hsieh - Deliverance
41
996669
Sun - Decrease
42
966699
I - Increase
43
999996
Kuai - Break-through (Resoluteness)
44
699999
Kou - Coming to Meet
45
666996
Ts'ui - Gathering Together [Massing]
46
699666
Shêng - Pushing Upward
47
696996
K'un - Oppression (Exhaustion)
48
699696
Ching - The Well
49
969996
Ko - Revolution (Molting)
50
699969
Ting - The Caldron
51
966966
Chên - The Arousing (Shock, Thunder)
52
669669
Kên - Keeping Still, Mountain
53
669699
Chien - Development (Gradual Progress)
54
996966
Kuei Mei - The Marrying Maiden
55
969966
Fêng - Abundance [Fullness]
56
669969
Lu - The Wanderer
57
699699
Sun - The Gentle (The Penetrating, Wind)
58
996996
Tui - The Joyous, Lake
59
696699
Huan - Dispersion [Dissolution]
60
996696
Chieh - Limitation
61
996699
Chung Fu - Inner Truth
62
669966
Hsiao Kuo - Preponderance of the Small
63
969696
Chi Chi - After Completion
64
696969
Wei Chi - Before Completion
Monday, February 20, 2012
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