What's in the Autumn 2024 Issue?
The Unity of Qigong Practice and the Daodejing
Discover how Qigong practice transcends physical techniques, guiding practitioners toward unifying body, mind, and spirit. Learn how the principles of the Daodejing can deepen your understanding of Qigong, leading to spiritual growth and harmony with the universe. By embracing Dao's virtues of impartiality, compassion, and simplicity, this essay reveals how Qigong practitioners can achieve personal health and ultimate integration with Dao. Perfect for those seeking to enrich their Qigong practice and spiritual journey.
By Deng Ming-Dao
Xing Cultivation
The ancient masters recognized the need for cultivation of Ming (eternal life) and Xing (original nature) in order to be able to attain stillness in meditation. Unfortunately, we don't know what they transmitted verbally to their students, and the written instructions that have persisted into the present are often vague and/or obtuse. Fortunately, we can look to other traditions to get insight into some effective techniques. Xing cultivation opens the gate for achieving true stillness and union with the Dao.
By Corinne Chaves
Taking Your Taiji to the Next Level: From Beginner to Intermediate
This article explores the progression from basic to intermediate Taijiquan, emphasizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit. It delves into key aspects of intermediate practice, such as increased awareness, deeper understanding of Taiji principles, and the cultivation of internal energy. It highlights common challenges, setting realistic goals, maintaining a consistent practice routine, and refining techniques. It also covers the martial aspects of Taijiquan, partner training, and the integration of Qigong to enhance overall practice.
By Luo Shiwen
A Good Night's Sleep the Chinese Way
"The secret of of good health lies in good and restful sleep" wrote Chinese poet Li Liweng in the 17th century, an observation that echoes many earlier Chinese health preservation and medical texts. In the ancient Chinese Yangsheng tradition, restorative sleep is foundational to health, vitality, and longevity. Even "the loss of one night's sleep," a Chinese proverb warns, "is followed by ten days of inconvenience." Being of nature ourselves, the Chinese argue, we thrive best when we align with the natural world.
By Rebecca Pope, Ph.D.
Departments:
Departments include "The Thirteen Postures of Taijiquan: A Synopsis of Lu" by Harold H. Lee; "Love, Gravity, and Qi: Believing in the Unseen Benefits" by Elaine Holder, Ph.D.; "Body Structure and Song (or Relaxation)" by Dr. David Clippinger; "Looking Back and Forward 25 Years" by Lawrence Howard, D.Ac; "Why Natural Products are Not Approved for Medical Use" by Steven Luo; and "How Qi Heals", by Caroline Hatfield. And of course our usual cultural tidbits and news.
I hope you enjoy this, our 135th consecutive issue of Qi Journal since 1991.
Subscription options available at www.qi-journal.com/subscriptions
