Long ago, in the distant ages, practices such as chi-gung, meditation and tai chi like movements were practised quietly behind high walls, the great gates of Buddhist Monasteries and other prayerful places. It was a privileged art handed down in the oral tradition from masters to select disciples in unbroken lineages spanning thousands of years. The formal forms of Tai Chi Chuan were developed later from these simple health building exercises which were referred to as Qigong or Nei jia. These are exercises which are built on breath-work, simple body movements and beautiful visualisation techniques which are used to relax, de-stress, and promote immense feelings of peace in the body and mind. By using the visualisations and gentle movements, we are trying to shut down the worrying system of the mind and body, and for some brief moments in time, just live or be in the moment without having to worry about past or future. In essence, the exercises with breath-work, are like the physical embodiment of prayer, whereby we are trying to change from the inside-out and by relaxing achieve a new vision or a new perspective which can help the healing environment.
The physical exercises in this programme are very simple and are combined with simple breathing techniques which are modified to allow the participants use the exercises in a seated position. The exercises are combined with very loving, compassionate and positive mind visualisations. The exercises which form the core of the seated tai chi/qigong programme are listed below. During the practice there will be many other exercises practiced. But for all exercises, it is just important to relax, breathe and smile from the inside-out, and just enjoy the journey. If possible, a little time daily should be set aside to practice.
Seated Programme Exercises
Innersmile Exercise
Belly Breathing Exercise
Shaking the Tree Exercise
Turning Head Exercise
Pushing Mountains
Lifiting the Sky
Embrace the Tree or Hold the Ball Exercise
