Qigong
Qigong (Qi Gong, Ch'i Kung, or Chi Kung) is a broad term that covers a wide variety of Chinese energy practices. It roughly translates as skilled work with energy (qi, chi) or breath. Qigong is a broad category which describes practices such as meditation, T'ai Chi, and many more. Breath exercises are also considered to be Qigong. Qigong exercises that are put together in a synergistic way are the basis for Qigong forms. There are many different Qigong forms. All forms attempt to increase and adjust the qi (ch'i) or vital energy force in the body. The practice of Qigong helps improve one's level of health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. After sufficient practice and accumulation of qi, Qigong practitioners are able to transmit their qi to help heal other people.
Essence Qigong
Essence Qigong uses a deep relaxation of every part of the body to begin to enter the meditative state. Next the vibrational energies of specially chosen Chinese words are used to increase the effectiveness of the gentle movements that follow. Some movements are designed to cleanse the energy channels of the body while others help push the beneficial qi deep into the body. One of the guiding principles in this form is that of letting go. The smooth flow of qi in the body is a result of relaxation and the movements themselves rather than using the mind to direct it.
Essence Qigong is a powerful form that is easy to learn and do. This very simplicity makes it easier to do on a consistent basis and also lets one access the deeper levels of their being without being too concerned about remembering complicated movements. It can help healers to both increase their effectiveness and rejuvenate themselves. Qigong also is used as a tool to help those interested in spiritual development through a daily practice.
Soaring Crane Qigong
Soaring Crane Qigong is a system of Qigong that is taught in three levels. The main focus of Level I is the Five Routines. In these routines all of the joints of the body are exercised. An alternation of stretching and relaxing the muscles and tendons along with visualization causes the qi to flow smoothly throughout the body. The visualizations not only include the acupoints and energy channels of the body but also draw energy from deep within the earth and from the farthest reaches of the universe. Also taught are the Remedy Routines called Discharging Turbid Substances from the Liver (Liver Cleanse) and Tonification. All of the tools in Level I enable a person to cleanse the energy channels and gather more positive qi to help improve his or her physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
The main focus of Level II is the Standing Meditation. A Sitting Meditation and more Remedy Routines are also taught and the students are corrected on the Five Routines. The student is now brought to a higher level as the qi begins to move spontaneously through the body to break through blockages that still exist.
In Level III the main focus is on the student learning the details of the form well enough to become ready to be a teacher. Crane Walking Steps and any Remedy Routines not yet learned are taught as well as a comprehensive review of the Five Routines and all Remedy Routines.
Turtle Longevity Qigong
Turtle Longevity Qigong is a system of Qigong that was handed down from father to son in the Wang family for 17 generations. Wang, Zhe Zhong only recently has started teaching it to the public. This form consists of Part I: Watching the Turtle, Part II: Learning from the Turtle, and Part III: Being the Turtle. These three parts are taught one at a time. This easy to learn form uses simple movements and visualizations based on the turtle (known for its longevity) to gather and distribute the flow of qi (chi) or vital life force energy.
