This is the first of a series of Dao Yin Yang Sheng Gong exercises created by Professor Zhang Guande. Professor Zhang Guande came from a medical family and studied Wushu (martial arts) as a means of health promotion through exercise. He began as a student in the Wushu Department of the Beijing Institute – now University – of Physical Education, eventually becoming a Senior Professor.
When Professor Zhang Guande himself became ill, he set about researching and studying traditional Chinese methods of healing. In particular, he looked into the relationship between Daoyin (Qigong) and the martial art of Taiji Chuan. As a result, he developed a series of exercises combining physical movements and mental cultivation and called it Dao Yin Yang Sheng Gong. In China, Dao Yin Yang Sheng Gong has been officially recognised by the Ministry of Health and is used by hospitals and sanatoria for the treatment of various illnesses.
Dao Yin Yang Sheng Gong has three aspects: preventive, curative and recuperative. However, no-one would claim that Dao Yin Yang Sheng Gong, or any other form of Qigong, is a substitute for conventional medicine or a substitute for prescribed medication. As with all forms of exercise if you are not well, be advised by your doctor.
Daoyin BaoJian Gong
The Daoyin BaoJian Gong set of 8 exercises is for general health preservation. Others specifically target the respiratory system, the heart and so on.
They comprise:
1. Tiaoxi Tuna (Regulating the breath)
2. Shunshui Tuizhou (Pushing the boat downstream)
3. Jiandan Riyue (Shoulder the sun and the moon)
4. Pengniao Zhanchi (A roc spreads its wings)
5. Liban Panshi (Lifting the millstone)
6. Tuichuang Wangyue (Push open the window to look at the moon
7. Yingfen Danchen (brush the dust into the wind)
8. Laoweng Furan (The God of longevity strokes his beard)
There’s a link here to a you tube demonstration by the Professor.
Suitable for beginners and those with some experience.