As defined by Wikipedia, “Tai chi is a Chinese martial art practiced for both its defense training and its health benefits.” “ Qigong  is a holistic system of coordinated body posture and movement, breathing, and meditation used in the belief that it promotes health, spirituality, and martial arts training.” I don’t know about you, but I can’t imagine learning tai chi or qigong by reading about them. That’s why I recommend the video series Essentials of Tai Chi and Qigong by David-Dorian Ross, B.A., International Master Tai Chi Instructor. Mr. Ross developed this twenty-four, thirty minute video lecture series in conjunction with The Great Courses. In this series he covers the following:

The snake and the crane

First steps in a journey

Harmony and balance

The ultimate martial art

The five families of tai chi practice

Qigong and the five animal frolics

Energy exercise—a branch of Chinese medicine

The first pillar of practice—forms

The second pillar—push hands for two

The third pillar—standing meditation

Benefits to the heart and immune system

A healthy weight and a healthy mind

Tai chi legends—stories of the masters

Reading the tai chi classics

A superior workout—use more of your muscles

Eight pieces of brocade and a better back

Tai chi weapons—when hands are not empty

Using the mind-inner organizing principles

Mental and physical flow

Creating space for choices

Flow at work-when business is in balance

Energy flow in your surroundings

Taking practice deeper

The evolution of tai chi

Again, this lecture series can be purchased through The Great Courses or rented from various libraries.

 

Disclaimer: This blog is not designed to diagnose, treat, or prevent illnesses or trauma, and Dr. Emick is not responsible for your use of this educational material or its consequences. Furthermore, reading this blog does not create a doctor-patient relationship. The information contained within this blog is not intended to dictate what constitutes reasonable, appropriate, or best care for any given physical or behavioral health issue, nor does it take into account the unique circumstances that define the health issues of the reader. If you have questions about the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a condition or illness, you should consult your personal health care professional. As always, consult with your personal health care professional before beginning or changing any fitness or nutrition program to make sure that it is appropriate for your needs. Dr. Emick reserves the right to modify her positions on a subject based upon new research or data as it presents.