Summary

Qigong has a history of 3,500 to 4,000 years and originated in China. While often seen as mystical, its origins are practical and closely tied to traditional Chinese medicine, helping people address physical, psychological, and emotional issues.

There are three main branches of Qigong: the health and healing branch from physicians and scholars, the Taoist and Buddhist temple practices emphasizing balance and mastery of the mind, and the martial arts branch focusing on physical optimization and focus. This course emphasizes the health and healing branch.

The course draws from over 15 years of the instructor’s study across different lineages and teachers, selecting the most effective and enjoyable practices for movement, breath, and mind mastery. It is a “best of” approach, informed by feedback from hundreds of students over the years.

Key Learnings

• Qigong has a 3,500 to 4,000-year history rooted in practical health and healing practices

• Its origins are closely tied to traditional Chinese medicine and self-care

• Three main branches exist: health and healing, Taoist/Buddhist temple practices, and martial arts

• This course emphasizes the health and healing branch, focusing on improving physical, emotional, and psychological well-being

• Practices are selected from multiple lineages based on effectiveness and enjoyment

• Feedback from hundreds of students has informed the structure and exercises in the course