Our popular Thursday early evening Qigong for Health classes have returned to Tarleton Library, with funding secured to provide sessions for the foreseeable future.
The classes are open to the public and free of charge but places are limited, so you'll need to pop into the library to book a place if you'd like to take part. For directions to the library, click here.
The sessions are suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners alike, with a focus on a variety of easy to learn traditional Qigong exercises aimed at promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
One of the exercise sequences you'll encounter at the session is the Ba Duan Jin, also known as the “Eight Pieces of Brocade”. It's a traditional form of Qigong that's been practised in China for nearly a thousand years.
Its origins can be traced back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279AD). According to legend, General Yue Fei developed these exercises to improve the health and fitness of his soldiers, although historical evidence supporting this claim is limited. Regardless of its exact origins, the Ba Duan Jin has been valued in China for its simplicity and effectiveness for centuries.
The Ba Duan Jin consists of eight distinct movements, each targeting different aspects of physical and mental well-being. The term “Eight Pieces of Brocade” suggests something precious and beneficial, reflecting the value these exercises provide.
Regular practice of the the Ba Duan Jin bestows a number of health benefits, including:
Improved Flexibility and Strength: Each movement gently stretches and strengthens various muscle groups, enhancing overall flexibility and muscle tone.
Better Balance and Coordination: The slow, deliberate movements of the Ba Duan Jin improve balance and coordination, which can be particularly beneficial for older adults.
Enhanced Circulation and Cardiovascular Health: The rhythmic nature of the exercises promotes blood flow and supports a healthy cardiovascular system.
Stress Reduction: The Ba Duan Jin incorporates deep breathing and mindful movement, which help to calm the mind and reduce stress levels.
Increased Energy Levels: Practitioners often report feeling more energised and alert after practising the Ba Duan Jin, due to improved circulation and balanced Qi (vital energy).
Improved Digestion: Certain movements are believed to stimulate the digestive system, promoting better digestive health.
Joint Health: The gentle, flowing motions are easy on the joints, making the Ba Duan Jin suitable for individuals with arthritis or other joint issues.
Mental Clarity and Focus: The meditative aspect of the Ba Duan Jin helps to clear the mind, enhancing concentration and mental clarity.
The relatively gentle and straightforward exercises of the Ba Duan Jin make it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. It provides an holistic approach to health, benefiting the body, mind, and spirit.
Here's a video of Master Faye Yip from the Chinese Health Qigong Association UK demonstrating the exercises:
If your interest is piqued, why not join us at Tarleton Library every Thursday at 4pm, or in St. Aidan's Church Hall in Bamber Bridge at 11am on a Saturday morning? You'll find full details of all our sessions on our website, here.
