Qi-Gong can be defined as an art of relaxation and health. The role is to maintain vitality by bringing together movement, controlled breathing and concentration of the mind. It is based on movements associated with breathing, postures and sequences which are connected to the body’s energy centers.
Qi-Gong means “energy work,” the goal of this discipline is to learn to manage one’s own energy to achieve mental, physical, and spiritual balance. In principle it is designed to stimulate the quantity of vital energy in the body and to facilitate vital energy circulation.
Qi-Gong has a history that extends more than 4,000 years. Contemporary Qi-Gong is a complex accretion of the ancient Chinese meditative practice xingqi or “circulating qi” and the gymnastic breathing exercise daoyin or “guiding and pulling”, with roots in the I Ching and occult arts; philosophical traditions of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts.
Interest in Qi-Gong began early in life shortly after studying and practicing Shotokan karate for several years. Having been fascinated by the principles layered in martial arts, Taoism and the Shaolin principles were more than fascinating. For me martial arts were about the discipline and health aspects. When studying the Tao, the ideologies paralleled my own. Through learning about the Tao, Qi-Gong naturally became into view. It was the natural flow of journey. I had been focused on many facets of physical, emotional, and spiritual health for many years. It was important, and remains important, to constantly thrive to improve those aspects of our lives. The Tao and Shaolin principles resonated deeply, and Qi-Gong principles and philosophies eventually entered into my life.
For several years the daily routine consisted of following the writings of Laozi and Zhuang Zhou, which are regarded by some as describing both meditative cultivation and physical exercises as means to extend one’s lifespan, and to access higher realms of existence. Regardless of contradictory theory and methods of training, Qi-Gong represents special and valuable knowledge. This knowledge lead me to improve my quality of life in many aspects: Physical, emotional and spiritual growth all benefited from the several years of studying and practicing Qi-Gong.
Due to physical limitation acquired while involved with the “Military Industrial Complex” there were limitations on the positions (or poses) and activities that could be performed. This at first began as a struggle and shortly became an opportunity to expand methods to accomplish the practices. The catalyst in finding an alternate method was found through Taoist teachings in which I had been immersed for years. With Qi-Gong, there is a stronger emphasis on soft, round, circular movements that are reminiscent of wind and water. Join spaces are always relaxed, and movements often simple, slow and rhythmic with focus on grounding and connecting with the earth. The philosophical aspects of Qi-Gong are of greater interest for my journeys. Typical of the Tao.
This art form would prove to be very beneficial at many phases of my journeys and travel. Specifically while challenging moments present themselves and attentive situational awareness is needed. This has remained evident in dealing with many journeys focused on health and growth physically, emotionally and spiritually for myself and others. Having humility and remaining humble during many interactions have earned great respect in many circles, both wide and narrow.