Nine Dragon (Jiulong) Baguazhang and Baguazhang Qigong are part of the Li family system of arts, Daoqiquan. The Li family trained Qigong for health, longevity and spiritual development, a practice said to enhance martial development as well. Their methods involve strong activation of intention,Yi, to lead and affect changes in the human body. Practice always begins with Quiet Sitting, Jingzuo, a method that proceeds to standing forms, Zhan Zhuang, and later moving forms. Baguazhang Qigong was derived from methods developed by the famous master Li, Cheng Yuen, who was purported to live almost 200 years through diet and a series of Daoyin or Daoist yoga exercises. One of his favorite, but little known health practices was Baguazhang circle walking, which is part of this program. He passed on the circle walking exercises to the Li Family of Sichuan Province, China, and from there, other Li family masters created numerous health exercises/Qigong based on his principles.
What is Spring Rain Baguazhang Qigong? Students begin with this health exercise. The literary/figurative meaning of “Spring Rain” is “gift from above.” As one discovers in its movements, it can also imply renewal or rejuvenation. The physical movements involve 3 stages: stationary moving forms, linear walking forms and circle walking forms. The basic movements used are: post-natal breathing, opening and closing the arms and legs, twisting the torso, Immortal Man Walking (a rolling step) and circle walking. These movements improve circulation, strengthen the tendons and ligaments and improve range of motion. Spring Rain Bagua Qigong is also a great “lymphatic flush.” Our movements gently access and pump the lymph nodes, which help fight infection and balance the fluids throughout the body. Finally, the circle walking in Spring Rain Bagua Qigong offers an additional benefit of accessing a meditative state.
All in all, our Baguazhang (or Bagua, for short) Qigong classes will enable one to experience Mind/Body integration! So let’s begin..
