Description
Book SynopsisQigong is an aspect of traditional Chinese medicine that involves coordinating breathing patterns with physical postures to maintain health and well-being. Ba Duan Jin: Eight-Section Qigong Exercises is an accessible, fully-illustrated guide to this particular qigong exercise, which has been shown to improve the respiratory, cardiovascular and immune systems.
The Ba Duan Jin exercise dates back to the Song Dynasty, and is broken down into eight sections, each of which focuses on a different physical area. The routine enhances limb strength and flexibility of the joints, and also fortifies the nerves. It can help in the treatment of illnesses such as osteoporosis and is also beneficial for mental health. Each routine is described step-by-step, and is illustrated with photographs and key points. The authors also point out common mistakes and offer advice on how to correct these.
Complemented by an appendix of acupuncture points and accompanied by access to online video material, this book will be of interest to Qigong and Tai Chi practitioners at all levels, students of martial arts and anyone interested in Chinese culture.
Trade ReviewThe online video is very professionally and beautifully done and is one of the best that I have seen. The practitioners demonstrating the forms are clearly very experienced and are excellent models to follow. I have practised several versions of ba duan jin and I particularly like this version. It's simple, aesthetic and very effective. This book and online video are a readable and thorough guide to the practice of ba duan jin. -- Medical Qigong Education Centre
With these books the Chinese Health Qigong Association have come close to providing everyone with their own personal qigong instructor. -- Tai Chi Finder Limited
The online video, filmed as it is in uplifting locations, such as on top of the Great Wall of China and by the sea etc. with the performers in their silk pyjamas, does add a little something extra to the experience of participating in this virtual class. -- Tai Chi Finder Limited
Table of ContentsPreface. 1. Origins and Development. 2. Characteristics. 3. Practice Tips. 4. Step-by-Step Descriptions of the Routines. Section 1. Hand and Foot Forms. Basic Hand Forms. Basic Stances. Section 2. The Exercises Illustrated. Ready Position. Routine 1. Holding the Hands High with Palms Up to Regulate the Internal Organs. Routine 2. Posing as an Archer Shooting Both Left- and Right-handed. Routine 3. Holding One Arm Aloft to Regulate the Functions of the Spleen and Stomach. Routine 4. Looking Backwards to Prevent Sickness and Strain. Routine 5. Swinging the Head and Lowering the Body to Relieve Stress. Routine 6. Moving the Hands Down the Back and Legs, and Touching the Feet to Strengthen the Kidneys. Routine 7. Thrusting the Fists and Making the Eyes Glare to Enhance Strength. Routine. 8. Raising and Lowering the Heels to Cure Diseases. Closing Form. Appendix: Acupuncture Points Mentioned in This Book.
