Qi Notebook

The Pine tree is considered a symbol of longevity. Its’ roots grow deep into the earth, the crown reaches towards the heavens, and it is able to sway and adapt to winds and storms. When spending time in the woods of Northern Minnesota I’m amazed at how much the majestic…

  The Five Animal Frolics are dynamic Qi Gong forms that incorporate movement, mental focus and breathing to promote health. They were developed in China by Hua Tuo, considered the father of Chinese medicine, during the second century. He designed the Animal Frolics combining his healing knowledge with shamanic dances, as…

I am grateful for the many blessings that tai chi and qigong have brought and continue to bring to my life. The yin of gentle movement, flowing and acceptance teaches me to bring these qualities to my life. The yang of discipline, following the principles and personal practice provide a…

Postures and kicks with weight on one leg can be challenging for both balance and proper alignment. Remember that when something moves upward, there is also a downward rooting.Weight is over the middle of the foot, with the knee soft and the tail bone pointed downwards. Think of aligning the…

Tai chi and qigong movement, while slow and flowing, is anything but random. Proper structure and technique are the framework free-flowing movement and qi are built upon. Indeed, deeper levels of practice require correct structure. We often hear about moving from the Dan Tian in tai chi and qigong but…

Let’s continue our exploration of body structure and technique by looking at the sacrum. Proper structure can allow the body to loosen and allow easy flow of movement and qi in both tai chi and qigong. The word sacrum is connected to sacred. And the pelvis is where our tai…