Customer Reviews

The Complete System of Self-Healing: Internal Exercises

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I've had this wonderful book for over 10 years, but only really began to apply the Internal Exercises after a trip to China. I saw a Qi Gong demonstration there and was very impressed, especially by the fact that the Qi Gong master looked all of 25 years old (I'm sure he was in his 40's at least). I began to practice Dr Chang's set of exercises faithfully on returning from the trip and have experienced increased energy, suppleness, better sleep, and clarity of mind. I was able to abandon my use of prescription antihistamines for allergies and now have no symptoms whatever. My nightly headaches, which were requiring nightly Tylenol, have also resolved. My endurance in sports, particularly alpine skiing, has increased without requiring increased preparatory workouts; and if I am diligent at doing the exercises after a workout, I experience no stiffness or soreness (something I'm starting to appreciate as an aging Baby Boomer!).
Dr Chang is clearly familiar with both Asian and Western medicine, science and culture. Although his book is very clearly written, practical and accessible, the depth of knowledge concealed in its deceptively simple language is profound. The exercises themselves are for the most part quite easy to perform (some of them do require much effort and perseverance to master, but are not physically taxing). What is quite reinforcing about them is that they produce an almost immediate sensation of energy flow in the body. They feel GOOD to perform. They struck me as being almost like a cross between yoga and tai chi, but they are certainly neither (as Dr Chang points out) and they are much less complex.
Dr Chang's other books are excellent as well!

This is a remarkable book. Whenever I have anything that is wrong with me I do the exercises and I feel better. My symptoms get better and most are resolve by doing these wonderful exercises. I feel blessed having this book as doctors miss the target most of the time in caring for my health. It liberates me to be able to have an alternative option to gain control of my health. I also do other gentle exercises such as Tai Chi, Chi Gong and Reiki. I have regained more health since going this route.

This is a great book on Qigong. This book has been around before it became the "in thing" and the information is better than most of the american authors whom have jumped on the bandwagon. Every book by this author is well worth owning.

Since reading this book many things in my life have changed. I am a martial artist and exercise enthusiast and the exercises that Dr. Chang perscribes work incredibly well for mental, spiritual and physical well-being. The calm focus, absence of excess tension and increased energy help with every area of my life and will for yours too.

Dr. Chang has open up a world of wisdom that is known to only those who seek it. I have been doing the exercises in this book on a daily bases (sense 9-3-94)and have noticed a remarkable difference emotionally, physically and spiritually. This book is the "true" workout book for the mind body and spirit. DR.CHANG.., you are a true asset to the world of healthy healing and revitalization.

This well written book takes you from complete beginner all the way up through the microcosmic orbit. It is presented in an old school style - classically you did lots of simple basic practices to get your body healthy enough to start doing meditations. This book has all those basic practices and beginning meditations, and it explains some - not too much - of what you are doing and why.

Other reviewers have listed all the different exercises that are in the book - there are a lot - so I'll skip that.

Stephen Chang was one of the first in print in English, and this book has stood the test of time. I've been studying and practicing qigong since 1987, this is one of the best beginner books I've seen.

My son bought me this book about 6 months ago and since then I have been in exellent health through doing the exersises. In my present job I do not have much time to exersise so I use this book to help me maintain a healthy mind and body. I would recommend this book to anyone.

I love this book. I am glad that it teaches me to heal my internal organs and keep them strong, in good health, and working right. Being a healer it enhances my knowledge to help others too.

He likes it!

This is essentially a book on traditional Taoist Yoga for health. The well-known exercises are all included: Five Animal Play, Eight Brocades, etc. Also included are the Chi/Energy theory and the Chakra/Hormonal theory.
There are specific exercises for various health conditions, like losing excess abdominal fat (belly rubbing) or eye exercises (which I appreciate, being a pretty avid reader). There are also some breathing exercises and meditations for those who have advanced past the health exercises.
One additional comment I can make is that the traditional exercises (Five Animal Play & Eight Brocades) seemed simpler and made more use of
imagination than the forms of these exercises you commonly see today (1986 vs 2008). Overall, a good book, which I'm glad I bought.

My son bought me this book about 6 months ago and since then I have been in exellent health through doing the exersises. In my present job I do not have much time to exersise so I use this book to help me maintain a healthy mind and body. I would recommend this book to anyone.