Wudang Qigong (Standing Postures) Michael Tse

Wudang Qigong W

udang Mountain is an area that is famous for its Daoist temples which have a history of over one thousand years. Many monks have Daoist religion and philosophy there, following the Daoist principles of following nature, to develop their Qi and achieve longevity. They maintain the body in a natural way, making sure they avoid stress and always trying to have a good and relaxed attitude. They also practise Qigong to maintain a healthy body and so many Daoist monks reach a very old age, seventy, eighty, ninety and even one hundred years old. Here are some Wu Dang Qigong exercises that are simple and easy to follow.

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1.

Wuji (No Limit) Position

i. Stand still with your legs together and both heels touching. The arms should rest at your side so your fingertips touch the Fengxi points on the outside of your thighs. The Baihui, Wuyin and Yongquan points connect together in one straight line. ii. Breathe naturally allowing the Qi to sink to the Dantian. This position is very good for relaxation. Fig 1

2.

Yi (Two Poles) Position

4.

Taiji (Yin & Yang) Position.

i. Stand still with your feet as wide as your shoulders, back straight and look forward, but do not focus on anything and keep your mouth naturally closed. Position your hands as if you are holding a ball in front of your Dantian. Again stand as long as you can, but you must feel comfortable. This position is good for every body.

i.

Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and bend your knees. Raise your arms to your sides with the palms facing downwards. Keep your back straight and look forwards without focusing on anything. Relax your body. ii. This position is good for relieving high blood pressure. You should breathe naturally and stay in that position for a few minutes so you feel good.

3. Bagua (Eight Situations) Position

i.

Bends your knees as in the last exercise – Yi Position. However, this time raise your hands up above your shoulders, so the palms face forwards and the thumbs point to each other. Keep the elbows slightly bent to allow the Queqi points to open. Breathe naturally and stand as long as you feel good. This exercise is good for low blood pressure.

5. Si Xiang (Four Images) Position

i. Stand still with your feet shoulder width apart and bend your knees. Your heels should point towards each other so your feet make a straight line. Position your hands so your palms face your Dantian. Again keep your back straight and look ahead without focusing. Let your Qi sink to your Dantian, relax your whole body and breathe naturally. This position is good for strengthening the body.

The above Qigong positions are good for many different kinds of conditions. If you do not know your own condition, you can do any of the exercises, as they will not harm you. Just remember to stand still, relax the whole body, breathe naturally and keep your eyes open, but do not focus on anything. When you find a lot of saliva builds up, swallow it down to your Dantian. Hold the position and relax your mind until you feel good. If you can practise daily, then you will find a lot of benefit to your health as they are not only good for blood pressure, but also good for chronic disease such as stress, a weak body and legs and kidney problems. by Fei Shi Yong

Translated by Michael Tse

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