Qigong Books

Book SynopsisLong considered a classic text by teachers and students, The Root of Chinese Qigong offers the principles and theories of qigong practice. This third edition includes Updated pīnyīn that includes diacritical tonal marks (for proper pronunciation of Chinese words). Updated Chinese text character font (providing better readability). Dr. Yang is acclaimed for helping readers understand qigong concepts deeper and more clearly by expressing them in familiar methods for the Western mind. He takes these ancient concepts and presents them in a logical way that helps practitioners stay on the right path to deepen knowledge and skill. In this book Dr. Yang teaches sitting and standing meditation, demonstrates qi massage techniques, and examines the Qi pathways in your body. He explains correct breathing methods, shares secrets for quieting the mind, and discusses how to increase your body's qi supply. He further explains important concepts such as the Three Treasures and regulating the body, breath, and mind. Contents include Qigong’s history Basic concepts of qigong Qi and the human body The five categories of qigong Regulating body, breath and mind Regulating your essence, qi and spirit Key points for improving practice A detailed look at qi channels and vessels in the body Whatever style of qigong you may practice, making sense of qigong theory and principles is the best way of achieving your goals sooner, more accurately, and deeper.Table of ContentsAbout the Author Introduction Forewords PART ONE. GENERAL INTRODUCTION Chapter 1. Introduction 1-1. Prelude 1-2. General Definition of Qì and Qìgōng 1-3. About This Book Chapter 2. History of Qìgōng 2-1. Before the Hàn Dynasty (Before 206 BCE) 2-2. From the Hàn Dynasty to the Beginning of the Liáng Dynasty (206 BCE-502 CE) 2-3. From the Liáng Dynasty to the End of the Qīng Dynasty (502 CE- 1911 CE) 2-4. From the End of the Qīng Dynasty to the Present (After 1911 CE) Chapter 3. Basic Concepts of Qìgōng 3-1. The Three Treasures – Jīng, Qì, and Shén 3-2. Yì and Xīn 3-3. Elixir Field 3-4. Three Flowers Reach the Top 3-5. Five Qì’s Toward Their Origins Chapter 4. Qì and the Human Body 4-1. About Qì 4-2. Qì and Bio-Electromagnetic Energy 4-3. Some Hypotheses 4-4. Opening the Qì Gates Chapter5. Categories of Qìgōng 5-1. Qìgōng and Religion 5-2. Categories of Qìgōng Chapter6. Qìgōng Theory 6-1. Introduction 6-2. External Elixir 6-3. Internal Elixir PART TWO. GENERAL KEYS TO QÌGŌNG TRAINING Chapter 7. General Concepts 7-1. Introduction 7-2. Building Qì 7-3. Kǎn and Lí Chapter 8. Regulating the Body 8-1. Introduction 8-2. Relaxation Theory 8-3. Relaxation Practice 8-4. Rooting, Centering, and Balancing Chapter 9. Regulating the Breath 9-1. Breathing and Health 9-2. Regulating the Breath 9-3. The Different Methods of Qìgōng Breathing 9-4. General Keys to Regulating Normal Breathing 9-5. Six Stages of Regulating the Breath Chapter 10. Regulating the Emotional Mind 10-1. Introduction 10-2. Xīn, Yì, and Niàn 10-3. Methods of Stopping Thought 10-4. Yì and Qì 10-5. Yì and the Five Organs 10-6. Xīn, Yì, and Shén Chapter 11. Regulating the Essence 11-1. Introduction 11-2. Strengthening Your Kidneys 11-3. Regulating the Essence Chapter 12. Regulating the Qì 12-1. Introduction 12-2. What Qì Should be Regulated? 12-3. Regulating the Qì Chapter 13. Regulating the Spirit 13-1. Introduction 13-2. Regulating the Spirit Chapter 14. Important Points in Qìgōng Practice 14-1. Introduction 14-2. Common Experiences for Qìgōng Beginners 14-3. Sensations Commonly Experienced in Still Meditation 14-4. Deviations and Corrections 14-5. Twenty-Four Rules for Qìgōng Practice PART THREE. THE QÌ CHANNELS AND VESSELS Chapter 15. General Concepts 15-1. Introduction Chapter 16. The Twelve Primary Qì Channels 16-1. Introduction 16-2. The Twelve Primary Channels 16-3. Important Points Chapter 17. The Eight Extraordinary Qì Vessels 17-1. Introduction 17-2. The Eight Extraordinary Vessels PART FOUR. CONCLUSION Chapter 18. One Hundred and One Questions Chapter 19. Conclusion Appendix A. Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisFor over one thousand years, Bodhidharma's (Da Mo) timeless qigong classics have been considered the key to enlightenment and long-lasting youth. This third edition includes Updated pinyin that includes diacritical tonal marks (for proper pronunciation of Chinese words). Updated Chinese text character font (providing better readability). Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, acclaimed for helping readers better understand qigong concepts, has translated and written commentaries for both the Yi Jin Jing (Muscle/Tendon Changing Classic) and the Xi Sui Jing (Marrow/Brain Washing Classic). Using ancient Buddhist and Taoist documents as its foundation, this book analyzes and discusses theory and training methods in a modern, scientific manner, and presents safe ways for you to begin your own practice. Contents include General introduction qigong and practice Historical survey of Da Mo and his influence on qigong Buddhist and Daoist qigong Adjusting qi with kan and li Training theory of Muscle Tendon Changing Training theory of Marrow Brain Washing Whatever style of these classics you may practice, making sense of qigong theory and principles is the best way of achieving your goals sooner, more accurately, and deeper.Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgments About the Author PART ONE GENERAL CONCEPTS Chapter 1. Introduction 1.1 The Value of Tradition 1.2 What are Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng? 1.3 How the Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng Have Affected Chinese Culture? 1.4 The Value of the Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng in Today’s World 1.5 How to Approach This Book 1.6 About This Book Chapter 2. Historical Survey 2.1 Before Dámó 2.2 Dámó, the Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng 2.3 After Dámó 2.4 Stories Chapter 3. Buddhist and Daoist Qìgōng 3.1 Buddhist and Daoist Qìgōng 3.2 The Differences between Buddhist and Daoist Qìgōng 3.3 The Two Major Styles of Daoist Qìgōng Chapter 4. Kǎn and Lí 4.1 What are Kǎn and Lí? 4.2 Kǎn and Lí in Modern Science 4.3 The Keys to Kǎn and Lí Adjustment 4.4 Kǎn and Lí in Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng PART TWO MUSCLE/TENDON CHANGING QÌGŌNG Chapter 5.Theories and Principles 5.1 Introduction 5.2 General Concepts from Old Documents 5.3 Purposes, Advantages, and Disadvantages 5.4 Wàidān and Nèidān Yìjīnjīng 5.5 Wàizhuàng and Nèizhuàng 5.6 Iron Shirt and Golden Bell Cover 5.7 Training Theory 5.8 Other Concerns Chapter 6. Yìjīnjīng Qìgōng Training 6.1 Important Training Rules 6.2 Who Can Train? 6.3 Keys to Training 6.4 When to Train? 6.5 Wàidān Yìjīnjīng Training 6.6 Nèidān Yìjīnjīng Training 6.7 Yìjīnjīng Training Schedule 6.8 Other Considerations 6.9 Conclusion PART THREE MARROW/BRAIN WASHING QÌGŌNG Chapter 7. Theories and Principles 7.1 Introduction 7.2 The Eight Vessels and Xǐsuǐjīng Qìgōng 7.3 Theories 7.4 Training Concepts 7.5 Wàidān and Nèidān Xǐsuǐjīng Chapter 8. Xǐsuǐjīng Qìgōng Training 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Who is Qualified to Train? 8.3 Poetry 8.4 Refining the Essence and Converting It into Qì 8.5 Purifying Qì and Converting It into Shén 8.6 Washing the Marrow and Conquering the Hair 8.7 Refining Shén and Returning It to Nothingness 8.8 Crushing the Nothingness PART FOUR QUESTIONS AND CONCLUSION Chapter 9. Questions Chapter 10. Conclusion Appendix A. Herbal Prescriptions for Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng Training Appendix B. Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisQìgōng Small Circulation meditation has been known for centuries to not only promote health and longevity but also to open a path toward spiritual enlightenment. Small Circulation meditation is the practice of circulating energy within the human body through the two main pathways, the Conception, and the Governing vessels. This practice is considered a foundation of Internal Elixir Qìgōng and was a fundamental step of meditation training in ancient times. Practicing Small Circulation meditation will help you to Regulate the Qì circulating in your twelve primary Qì channels Make Qì abundant throughout your entire body Building upon a foundation of Embryonic Breathing practice, Small Circulation is the second stage of meditation training for health, longevity, and spiritual enlightenment through meditation. The third step is to practice Qìgōng Grand Circulation. Dr. Yáng presents translation and analysis of many ancient Buddhist and Daoist documents and offers modern scientific explanations for learning and training safely. This double-edged approach will enable you to quickly achieve a high level of understanding. Qìgōng Small Circulation is organized into three parts Foundations: General Qìgōng concepts and meditation theory Meditation training procedures: Four refinements and five regulatings The practice of Small Circulation meditation This second edition includes pinyin tonal marks for pronunciation, modern Chinese fonts, and illustration enhancements.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Dedication About the Author Foreword Preface PART I. FOUNDATIONS Chapter 1. General Concepts Introduction 1-2. What is Qi and What is Qigong? 1-3. Categories of Qigong 1-4. Theory of Yin and Yang, Kan and Li 1-5. Qigong and Health 1-6. Qigong and Longevity 1-7. Qigong and Spiritual Enlightenment 1-8. Buddhist and Daoist Qigong Concepts 1-9. Importance of Qigong Study to the Human Race 1-10. About this Book Chapter 2. Theoretical Foundations 2-1. Introduction 2-2. Qi Vessels and Channels 2-3. Human Qigong Science 2-4. Meaning and Purpose of Meditation 2-5. Muscle/Tendon Changing and Marrow/Brain Washing Qigong 2-6. What is Small Circulation? 2-7. What is Grand Circulation? 2-8. What is Enlightenment Meditation? PART II. MEDITATION TRAINING PROCEDURES Chapter 3. Four Refinements 3-1. Introduction 3-2. Refine the Essence and Convert It into Qi 3-3. Purify Qi and Convert It into Spirit 3-4. Refine Spirit and Return It to Nothingness 3-5. Crush the Nothingness Chapter 4. Five Regulatings 4-1. Introduction 4-2. Regulating the Body (Tiao Shen) 4-3. Regulating the Breathing (Tiao Xi) 4-4. Regulating the Mind (Tiao Xin) 4-5. Regulating the Qi (Tiao Qi) 4-6. Regulating the Spirit (Tiao Shen) PART III. SMALL CIRCULATION MEDITATION Chapter 5. Theoretical Root of Small Circulation Meditation 5-1. Introduction 5-2. Small Circulation—Past and Present 5-3. Small Circulation and Qi Network 5-4. Theory of Small Circulation Meditation 5-5. Three Gates 5-6. Different Paths of Small Circulation 5-7. Tang Dynasty Internal Elixir Meditation Illustration Chapter 6. Embryonic Breathing 6-1. Introduction 6-2. Theory of Embryonic Breathing 6-3. Method of Embryonic Breathing Chapter 7. Important Points in Meditation 7-1. Introduction 7-2. Preparations 7-3. Meditation Place 7-4. Best time for Meditation 7-5. Meditation Orientation 7-6. Common Experiences for Qigong Beginners 7-7. Common Sensations in Still Meditation 7-8. Deviations and Corrections 7-9. Twenty-Four Rules for Qigong Practice Chapter 8. Small Circulation Meditation Practice 8-1. Introduction 8-2. Regulating the Body 8-3. Regulating the Breathing 8-4. Regulating the Emotional Mind 8-5. Regulating the Qi 8-6. Regulating the Spirit 8-7. Regulating the Essence 8-8. Recovery from the Meditative State 8-9. Meditation and Healing PART IV. QUESTIONS AND POSSIBLE HUMAN FUTURE Chapter 9. Questions and Possible Human Future Chapter 10. Conclusion Appendix A. Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisProfound - In Depth - Taijiquan Theory In the last seven centuries, many songs and poems have been composed about Taijiquan. These have played a major role in preserving the knowledge and wisdom of the masters, although in many cases, the identity of the authors and the dates of origin have been lost. As lifelong pursuit, Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming has translated many of these documents and according to him, believes many are incomplete for reasons relating to: forgotten oral secrets, the original authors personal understanding being too narrowly focused, and many documents that have gone missing could help unify Taijiquan theory. In response, his book Taijiquan Theory of Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming is an attempt to join the various theories on Taijiquan in one complete text. This book is structured with treaties, songs, and poems, followed by the original Chinese text and interpretations of the passages. Contents include Regulating the body, breath, mind, Qi & spirit Analysis of Jin, pushing hands and sparring Taijiquan’s long range and short range fighting strategies The relationship of Jin and Qi The unification of the internal Qi and external physical manifestations of Qi "Based upon my personal background and understanding, I have tried my best to compile the Taijiquan Theory and practice concepts in this book. I have attempted to make this effort as complete as possible”. —Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming This second edition includes Updated pīnyīn that includes diacritical tonal marks (for proper pronunciation of Chinese words). Updated Chinese text character font (providing better readability). Table of ContentsForeword by Grandmaster Li, Mao-Ching Foreword by Grandmaster Abraham Liu Preface Part I. General Concepts of Taijiquan About Taiji The Meaning of Taiji in Taijiquan Taijiquan Yin-Yang Illustrations Yin-Yang Theory of Taijiquan Yin-Yang Theory of Taiji’s Xin and Yi Yin-Yang Theory of Movement and Stillness in Taijiquan Lao Zi’s Thesis of Using the Soft to Subdue the Hard General Theory of Taijiquan Thirteen Postures Practicing Procedures of Taijiquan Three Heights and Three Postures of Taijiquan Yin-Yang Practicing Theory of Taijiquan Theory of Taijiquan and Health About Qi Primary Channels, Secondary Channels, Vessels, and Dan Tian Thesis of Taijiquan’s Muscle/Tendon Changing and Marrow/Brain Washing Part II. About Regulating the Body Importance of Regulating the Body Stationary Postures (The Postures of Central Equilibrium) Moving Postures (The Postures of Four Directions) Part III. About Regulating the Breathing Secret of Regulating the Breathing Theory of Normal and Reversed Abdominal Breathing Secret of Embryonic Breathing (Wuji Breathing, Girdle Vessel Breathing) Secret Knacks of Regulating the Breathing Part IV. About Regulating the Emotional Mind Importance of Regulating the Emotional Mind Thesis of Monkey Xin and Horse Yi Thesis of Mutual Dependence of Emotional Mind and Breathing Thesis of Comprehending the Human Nature through Taijiquan Part V. About Regulating the Qi Theory of Using the Yi to lead the Qi Secret of Small Circulation Secret of Grand Circulation Yin-Yang Taiji Ball Qigong Part VI. About Regulating the Spirit Returning the Essence to the Brain for Nourishing Through Marrow/Brain Washing Thesis of the Unification of Spirit and Qi Thesis of the Mutual Dependence of Spirit and Breathing Thesis of Wuji Spirit Thesis of the Spirit of No Spirit Part VII. About Jin Thesis of Jin Theory of Internal Jin Theory of External Jin Theory of Hard Jin, Soft-Hard Jin, and Soft Jin Theory of Long Jin and Short Jin Secret of Jin Theory of Storing Jin Secret of Hen and Ha, Two Qi’s Part VIII. About Pushing Hands Practicing Methods of the Four Directions and Four Corners (Eight Doors, Eight Trigrams) Practicing Methods of the Five Steppings (Five Elements) Practicing Methods of Central Equilibrium Method of Rooting Method of Uprooting Practicing Methods for Listening, Following, Attaching, and Adhering The Practice of Yin-Yang Taiji Circle Six Turning Secrets of Taijiquan Part IX. About Sparring Taijiquan’s Kicking, Striking, Wrestling, and Na Taijiquan’s Attaching and Adhering Taijiquan’s Kicking Taijiquan’s Striking (Cavity Press) Taijiquan’s Wrestling Taijiquan’s Na Taijiquan’s Long and Short Fighting Strategies Strategy of Attacking Timing Fighting Strategy of Sun Zi Strategy of Hard and Soft Strategy of Fast and Slow Strategy of Advancing and Retreating Theory of the Fight of No Fight Part X. Conclusion Theory of Reaching Enlightenment Discussing the Song of Taijiquan’s Real Meaning References Appendix A. Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Acknowledgments About the Author Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisFor over one thousand years, Bodhidharma's (Da Mo) timeless qigong classics have been considered the key to enlightenment and long-lasting youth. This third edition includes Updated pinyin that includes diacritical tonal marks (for proper pronunciation of Chinese words). Updated Chinese text character font (providing better readability). Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, acclaimed for helping readers better understand qigong concepts, has translated and written commentaries for both the Yi Jin Jing (Muscle/Tendon Changing Classic) and the Xi Sui Jing (Marrow/Brain Washing Classic). Using ancient Buddhist and Taoist documents as its foundation, this book analyzes and discusses theory and training methods in a modern, scientific manner, and presents safe ways for you to begin your own practice. Contents include General introduction qigong and practice Historical survey of Da Mo and his influence on qigong Buddhist and Daoist qigong Adjusting qi with kan and li Training theory of Muscle Tendon Changing Training theory of Marrow Brain Washing Whatever style of these classics you may practice, making sense of qigong theory and principles is the best way of achieving your goals sooner, more accurately, and deeper.Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgments About the Author PART ONE GENERAL CONCEPTS Chapter 1. Introduction 1.1 The Value of Tradition 1.2 What are Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng? 1.3 How the Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng Have Affected Chinese Culture? 1.4 The Value of the Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng in Today’s World 1.5 How to Approach This Book 1.6 About This Book Chapter 2. Historical Survey 2.1 Before Dámó 2.2 Dámó, the Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng 2.3 After Dámó 2.4 Stories Chapter 3. Buddhist and Daoist Qìgōng 3.1 Buddhist and Daoist Qìgōng 3.2 The Differences between Buddhist and Daoist Qìgōng 3.3 The Two Major Styles of Daoist Qìgōng Chapter 4. Kǎn and Lí 4.1 What are Kǎn and Lí? 4.2 Kǎn and Lí in Modern Science 4.3 The Keys to Kǎn and Lí Adjustment 4.4 Kǎn and Lí in Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng PART TWO MUSCLE/TENDON CHANGING QÌGŌNG Chapter 5.Theories and Principles 5.1 Introduction 5.2 General Concepts from Old Documents 5.3 Purposes, Advantages, and Disadvantages 5.4 Wàidān and Nèidān Yìjīnjīng 5.5 Wàizhuàng and Nèizhuàng 5.6 Iron Shirt and Golden Bell Cover 5.7 Training Theory 5.8 Other Concerns Chapter 6. Yìjīnjīng Qìgōng Training 6.1 Important Training Rules 6.2 Who Can Train? 6.3 Keys to Training 6.4 When to Train? 6.5 Wàidān Yìjīnjīng Training 6.6 Nèidān Yìjīnjīng Training 6.7 Yìjīnjīng Training Schedule 6.8 Other Considerations 6.9 Conclusion PART THREE MARROW/BRAIN WASHING QÌGŌNG Chapter 7. Theories and Principles 7.1 Introduction 7.2 The Eight Vessels and Xǐsuǐjīng Qìgōng 7.3 Theories 7.4 Training Concepts 7.5 Wàidān and Nèidān Xǐsuǐjīng Chapter 8. Xǐsuǐjīng Qìgōng Training 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Who is Qualified to Train? 8.3 Poetry 8.4 Refining the Essence and Converting It into Qì 8.5 Purifying Qì and Converting It into Shén 8.6 Washing the Marrow and Conquering the Hair 8.7 Refining Shén and Returning It to Nothingness 8.8 Crushing the Nothingness PART FOUR QUESTIONS AND CONCLUSION Chapter 9. Questions Chapter 10. Conclusion Appendix A. Herbal Prescriptions for Yìjīnjīng and Xǐsuǐjīng Training Appendix B. Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisBuild a strong foundation for health, longevity, and spiritual enlightenment with the ancient art of Qìgōng Embryonic Breathing (Internal Elixir). Chinese Qìgōng can be categorized into External Elixir (Wai Dan) and Internal Elixir (Nei Dan). To reach the goals of longevity and spiritual enlightenment, the practitioner must learn Internal Elixir Qìgōng. The first step, and the focus of this book, is to understand the theory and the method of Embryonic Breathing. Practicing this breathing technique will help you Optimize your central energy system Conserve your energy Store this energy at abundant levels Using ancient Buddhist and Daoist documents, Dr. Yáng analyzes and discusses meditation theory and training methods in a modern and scientific manner. This double-edged approach will enable you to quickly achieve a high level of understanding. It is well acknowledged that without a proper foundation, the root of spiritual enlightenment will not be established and the meditative practice of Qìgōng for spiritual enlightenment, may be in vain. Qìgōng Embryonic Breathing is organized into three parts Foundations: General Qìgōng concepts and meditation theory Translations and commentary of ancient documents related to Embryonic Breathing The practice of Embryonic Breathing meditation The necessary second and third steps are to practice Qìgōng Small Circulation and Qìgōng Grand Circulation. This second edition includes pinyin tonal marks for pronunciation, modern Chinese fonts, and illustration enhancements.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Dedication About the Author Foreword Preface PART I FOUNDATIONS Chapter 1 General Concepts 1.1 Introduction 1.2 General Qigong Concepts 1.3 The Network of Qi Vessels and Channels 1.4 Buddhist and Daoist Qigong Concepts 1.5 Four Refinements 1.6 Five Regulatings 1.7 Muscle/Tendon Changing and Marrow/Brain Washing Qigong 1.8 Small Circulation, Grand Circulation, and Enlightenment Meditation 1.9 Definition of Embryonic Breathing 1.10 Embryonic Breathing and Cultivation of the Dao 1.11 About This Book Chapter 2 Theoretical Foundation of Embryonic Breathing 2.1 Introduction 2.2 Human Qigong Science 2.3 Theoretical Foundations of Embryonic Breathing 2.4 Meanings and Purposes of Meditation PART II TRANSLATIONS AND COMMENTARIES OF ANCIENT DOCUMENTS RELATED TO EMBRYONIC BREATHING Chapter 3 Translations and Commentaries of Ancient Documents 3.1 Introduction 3.2 General Concepts 3.3 About the Dan Tian 3.4 Regulating the Breathing 3.5 Regulating the Mind 3.6 Regulating the Spirit 3.7 Methods of Embryonic Breathing 3.8 Other Related Documents Chapter 4 Summaries from Ancient Documents 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Summaries of Important Points PART III PRACTICE OF EMBRYONIC BREATHING Chapter 5 Practice of Embryonic Breathing 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Preparation for Embryonic Breathing 5.3 Practice of Embryonic Breathing 5.4 Recovery from the Meditative State Chapter 6 Conclusion Appendix A: Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisQìgōng Small Circulation meditation has been known for centuries to not only promote health and longevity but also to open a path toward spiritual enlightenment. Small Circulation meditation is the practice of circulating energy within the human body through the two main pathways, the Conception, and the Governing vessels. This practice is considered a foundation of Internal Elixir Qìgōng and was a fundamental step of meditation training in ancient times. Practicing Small Circulation meditation will help you to Regulate the Qì circulating in your twelve primary Qì channels Make Qì abundant throughout your entire body Building upon a foundation of Embryonic Breathing practice, Small Circulation is the second stage of meditation training for health, longevity, and spiritual enlightenment through meditation. The third step is to practice Qìgōng Grand Circulation. Dr. Yáng presents translation and analysis of many ancient Buddhist and Daoist documents and offers modern scientific explanations for learning and training safely. This double-edged approach will enable you to quickly achieve a high level of understanding. Qìgōng Small Circulation is organized into three parts Foundations: General Qìgōng concepts and meditation theory Meditation training procedures: Four refinements and five regulatings The practice of Small Circulation meditation This second edition includes pinyin tonal marks for pronunciation, modern Chinese fonts, and illustration enhancements.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Dedication About the Author Foreword Preface PART I. FOUNDATIONS Chapter 1. General Concepts Introduction 1-2. What is Qi and What is Qigong? 1-3. Categories of Qigong 1-4. Theory of Yin and Yang, Kan and Li 1-5. Qigong and Health 1-6. Qigong and Longevity 1-7. Qigong and Spiritual Enlightenment 1-8. Buddhist and Daoist Qigong Concepts 1-9. Importance of Qigong Study to the Human Race 1-10. About this Book Chapter 2. Theoretical Foundations 2-1. Introduction 2-2. Qi Vessels and Channels 2-3. Human Qigong Science 2-4. Meaning and Purpose of Meditation 2-5. Muscle/Tendon Changing and Marrow/Brain Washing Qigong 2-6. What is Small Circulation? 2-7. What is Grand Circulation? 2-8. What is Enlightenment Meditation? PART II. MEDITATION TRAINING PROCEDURES Chapter 3. Four Refinements 3-1. Introduction 3-2. Refine the Essence and Convert It into Qi 3-3. Purify Qi and Convert It into Spirit 3-4. Refine Spirit and Return It to Nothingness 3-5. Crush the Nothingness Chapter 4. Five Regulatings 4-1. Introduction 4-2. Regulating the Body (Tiao Shen) 4-3. Regulating the Breathing (Tiao Xi) 4-4. Regulating the Mind (Tiao Xin) 4-5. Regulating the Qi (Tiao Qi) 4-6. Regulating the Spirit (Tiao Shen) PART III. SMALL CIRCULATION MEDITATION Chapter 5. Theoretical Root of Small Circulation Meditation 5-1. Introduction 5-2. Small Circulation—Past and Present 5-3. Small Circulation and Qi Network 5-4. Theory of Small Circulation Meditation 5-5. Three Gates 5-6. Different Paths of Small Circulation 5-7. Tang Dynasty Internal Elixir Meditation Illustration Chapter 6. Embryonic Breathing 6-1. Introduction 6-2. Theory of Embryonic Breathing 6-3. Method of Embryonic Breathing Chapter 7. Important Points in Meditation 7-1. Introduction 7-2. Preparations 7-3. Meditation Place 7-4. Best time for Meditation 7-5. Meditation Orientation 7-6. Common Experiences for Qigong Beginners 7-7. Common Sensations in Still Meditation 7-8. Deviations and Corrections 7-9. Twenty-Four Rules for Qigong Practice Chapter 8. Small Circulation Meditation Practice 8-1. Introduction 8-2. Regulating the Body 8-3. Regulating the Breathing 8-4. Regulating the Emotional Mind 8-5. Regulating the Qi 8-6. Regulating the Spirit 8-7. Regulating the Essence 8-8. Recovery from the Meditative State 8-9. Meditation and Healing PART IV. QUESTIONS AND POSSIBLE HUMAN FUTURE Chapter 9. Questions and Possible Human Future Chapter 10. Conclusion Appendix A. Translation and Glossary of Chinese Terms Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisTaiji Qigong is a gentle, easy-to-learn system of energy-enhancing exercises that coordinate movement with mindful breathing and inner awareness, which, when practiced regularly, will give you more energy, improve health, and help prevent illness. This book is designed to inform all levels and depths of practice. Regardless of whether you are completely new to the subject or are looking to enrich your current understanding, you will find a treasure trove of information from which to build a practice specific to your own goals, such as improving flexibility, cultivating mindfulness, or getting a better night’s sleep. Part I provides a thorough grounding in the theory and practice of Qi and Qigong. Part II discusses the general principles of Qigong practice, clarifying common questions about how to practice (15 minutes a day is a good starting point; 30 minutes will provide a marked increase in vitality and serenity), how to achieve an optimum stance, and what breathing techniques should be used (natural breathing, abdominal breathing, and reverse abdominal breathing). Part III examines the 18 movements of Taiji Qigong with step-by-step illustrated instructions, detailed information on the benefits of each stance, additional technique tips, and insights into how movement flow can be enhanced through the power of the mind. At the back of the book is a handy reference chart for quick practice reminders. Practice the full 18 movements or simply pick and choose the ones you like best!Table of ContentsPart I. The Theory of Qi and Qigong What Is Qi? The Three Treasures More About Jing (Essence) Original Qi The Gate of Vitality More About Shen (Mind) Enriching and Utilizing the Three Treasures Through Qigong Channels of Qi Dantian Energy Points or “Qi Vortices” Along the Qi Channels Yin and Yang What Does Qigong Really Mean? The Small CirculationPart II. General Principles of Qigong Practice How Much Should You Practice? Optimum Conditions for Practice Correct Posture and Stance to Begin Refining Your Stance Breathing Methods A Note About Mental Focus A Note About Internal Effects A Note About Benefits A Note About Motivation Possible Side-Effects The Concept of Distorted QiPart III. The 18 Movements of Taiji Qigong 1. Beginning (...Movement) 2. Opening the Chest 3. Painting a Rainbow (sometimes called “Dancing With the Rainbow”) 4. Separating the Clouds 5. Arm Rolling (...in Fixed Stance) (sometimes called “Back Swinging Monkey”) 6. Rowing a Boat (...in the Middle of a Lake) 7. Lifting the Ball (sometimes called “Holding a Ball in Front of the Shoulders”) 8. (Turning to...) Gaze at the Moon 9. (Turning Waist and...) Pushing Palm 10. Hands in Cloud (...in Horse Stance) 11. Scooping the Sea (...and Viewing the Sky) 12. Pushing Waves (sometimes called “Playing With Waves” or “Reinforcing Waves”) 13. Flying Dove (...Spreads its Wings) 14. Charging Fists (...With Outstretched Arms) 15. Flying Wild Goose 16. Spinning Wheel 17. Bouncing a Ball (...While Stepping) 18. Calming Qi (sometimes called “Balancing Qi” or “Pressing the Palms for Calming”) Summary of Exercises Quick Reference Chart

Read more less