The Center Movement Classes
QIGONG PRACTICE
Qigong can be literally translated as energy practice. It includes all kinds of internal and external forms that enhance the quality of Qi and increase circulation. There are two classifications of Qigong, Nei Dan (internal forms) and Wei Dan (external forms). Qigong practice is beneficial because it promotes good health by facilitating the body's internal healing mechanisms and increasing the production of white blood cells which enhance immunity. This allows the body to function more efficiently. Qigong can be practiced in a simple standing, sitting or lying down position; or it can be graceful and sophisticated movement like the meditative forms of Tai Chi and Eight Treasures. Unlike calisthenics, integral movement enhances life energy slowly by progressively making the body more flexible and improving overall health. With practice the mind becomes skillful at remaining attentive while moving.
As you practice and refine the movements you will eventually notice old problems and symptoms becoming less problematic or disappearing altogether. Movement releases bound up energy and emotions which will help you to experience joy, peacefulness and flexibility. The path to deeper levels of growth lies within the depths of the cosmic Tai Chi symbol below. All the energies of life are represented as Yin and Yang and its unifying principle is through the practice of balance and harmony.
Movement instructors are experienced, certified and trained to skillfully teach a number of movement and qigong forms specific to an individuals needs. This type of movement is beneficial for all age groups including seniors and older children.
Dao-In (Chinese Yoga)
Dao-in is a subtle qigong practice that has maintained its pure, original and simple form. It originated during the time when man lived in caves and all the movements are done sitting or lying down. Dao-In practice is a way to attune, refine, and integrate life force. The form emphasizes relaxation, releasing and dissolving energy blockages deep within the body's tissues. Gentle stretching and breathing are utilized in contrast to muscular stretching only. One of the natural principles of movement is expansion and contraction. This is applied to the tissues, joints, ligaments, tendon, muscles, blood vessels, lymphatics, neuro pathways and all subtle body secretions. This awareness of unity in time can be applied not only to specific situations but to the simple ordinary moments in life's activities.
Meditation and breathing are an integral part of this practice. This class is presently taught in two levels
Pa Gong Dao Ying (8 Treasures)
The practice of The Eight Treasures dates back to the Han Dynasty and predates the many forms of Tai Chi Chuan. This form promotes health by activating eight specific points along the energy channels of the body. these channels are know in Chinese Medicine as the eight extraordinary vessels. The stimulation of these points allows energy to flow unimpeded throughout the body, preventing stagnation of qi, blood, fluids and the emotions. This form also helps the body to gain flexibility and strength, especially along the spine.
The results of daily practice are inner peace and serenity and the absence of pain, fatique and consfusion. The Eight Treasures is suitable for all age groups and can be practiced as a complete cultivation form for life or as a foundational practice for other forms of Qigong. This practice consists of 32 movements and is taught in two levels. Students also learn the name of each movement, the 8 points and their location, and the 8 extraordinary vessles and their location.
Tai Chi Basics
This is a beginners class. Students receive guidance on body alignment and proper energy foundation for Qi development. The core exercises are composed of six primary parts. The first part is the basic "Nei Gung" standing practice. The second part is "Cloud Hands" which integrates the internal principals learned in the standing posture and includes coordination of hand movement as an integral part of Tai Chi. The next three parts are composed of three swings which function to open the joints of the hands and legs and to increase the Qi of the internal organs and spine. The sixth part is the spinal stretch. This practice will expand the student's awareness of each vertebrae of the spine along with related nerves and energy circulation.
New students will develop a foundation for energy development and those that are experienced in Tai Chi movement can bring greater clarity into whatever movement form they practice. The focus in this class is always from a healing perspective. This class is appropriate for all age groups and all levels of health.