Customer Reviews

Essence of Taiji Qigong (Tai Chi Chi Kung) YMAA

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This DVD has the following sections that cover the different aspects of Taiji Qigong:

The purposes of Taiji Qigong
Training Procedures
Important Points
Stretching
Warming up
Wai Dan Standing Still Meditation
Moving Taijiquan

PURPOSES OF TAIJI QIGONG

This course follows the same general approach as Dr. Yang's book "Taijiquan Theory", which teaches that a student should regulate in the following order:

Regulate the body
Regulate the breath
Regulate the mind
Regulate the chi
Regulate the spirit

Explanations are given as the material is presented. The stated goal of Taiji Qigong is to lead the student into the domain of emptiness, represented by the concept Wuji. At this point Body Qi and Mind Qi become one and all desires disappear. Fortunately, for the many of us that might not reach this accomplished a level, the journey trying to get there is still wonderful and filled with many body, mind and spirit health benefits.

TRAINING PROCEDURE

This section talks about regulating the body by being relaxed, centered, balanced and rooted. When we line up our bodies properly with the earth/ground, it becomes much easier to begin to relax our bodies and mind since we are no longer fighting the effects of being out of balance. This causes our Qi to circulate and avoid stagnation.
Once we learn to regulate the breath, then the mind can lead the Qi effortlessly, as explained by Dr. Yang, Jwing Ming. Each of the five regulations are covered using explanations and demonstrations by Dr. Yang.
WARMING UP

This is a very thorough presentation of well thought out exercises that assist a student/practitioner in loosening their body, muscles and joints. The exercises in this section teach how to connect the parts and move as one unit. Some of the exercises massage and move the internal organs in a beneficial way.

The goals of the abdominal exercises on the DVD are:

Regain control of the muscles in the abdomen
Loosen the lower dan tian so Qi can flow
Improve and smooth the Qi circulation in the small and large intestines
Improve and smooth the Qi circulation in the kidneys
loosen the kidney area
Eliminate Qi stagnation in lower back
Loosen muscles, stomach, gallbladder, liver & spleen
Improve Qi circulation in these areas
Use the mind to lead the Qi from the lower dantien to the solar plexus area

Dr. Yang then teaches chest exercises, arm exercises, loosening up the torso and the internal organs, loosening the wrists, coiling forward and backward, settling the wrists, rotating the ball, and pushing to the sides. For each of these sections, an explanation is given of what the goals should be for each exercise. Dr. Yang is shown split screen with different views of him demonstrating the exercises.

A sign of quality material is when the "warm up" or "basic" exercises are so well designed that they truly have all the secrets of the art, and alone would still be worth the cost of the video. If someone practiced only these warm up exercises, they would still be of great value. As a beginning student, I recall wanting to skip the warm up exercises and go straight to the Taijiquan form.

My teacher taught many Taiji exercises using a Taiji staff that measured from the ground to the armpit. This staff work, I realized many years later, to be of great value and well worth the extra effort of making them a part of the daily Taijiquan practice, along with the form, push hands, etc... The wise student will enjoy spending time learning these exercises. So don't skip these exercises when you watch this video. Spend a lot of time in this section to truly develop a strong foundation in this Taiji Qigong ability.

IMPORTANT POINTS

This section delves into the theory and concepts of Taiji Qigong, with the goal being to return your spirit to its origin, nature. Advice is given on diet, life style and the best time of day to practice.

STRETCHING

This section teaches three or four different types of stretches, while encouraging one to stretch slowly, gently, no tensing of the muscles, no holding your breath, but rather to breath naturally. Dr. Yang recommends ten repetitions of each of the demonstrated stretching techniques.

WAI DAN STANDING STILL MEDITATION

Dr. Yang demonstrates this Wai Dan version, but for the Nei Dan version of standing still meditation, the practitioner is referred to the book "The essence of Taiji Qigong", the companion book for this video. Tips are given for the correct practice while showing Dr. Yang demonstrating the form. This form uses the following postures:

Embracing the moon on the chest (arcing the arms)
Holding up the Heavens

STATIONARY TAIJI QIGONG

Stand still to regulate the breathing (martial artists use reverse abdominal breathing)
Big python softens its body
The Qi is sunk to the dan tian
Expand the chest to clean the body
Pour the Qi into the Baihui (top of the head)
Left and right to push the mountains
Settle the wrists to push the palms
Large bear swimming in the water
Left and right to open the mountain
Eagle attacks its prey
Lion rotates the ball
White Crane spreads its wings

At this point Dr. Yang demonstrates the complete set in continuous movements, repeating each of the forms six times, which would be less than normal.

STATIONARY TAIJI QIGONG COILING SET

This sets purpose is to lead Qi to the surface of the skin and the bone marrow through the use of coiling motions, as taught on this DVD. Reverse breathing is recommended for this set due to its benefits of strengthening the guardian Qi and the skin listening Qi. These two types of Qi are used in the martial arts. The postures are:

Stand calmly to regulate the spirit and breathing
White Crane relaxes its wings
Drill forward and pull back
Left and right Yin and Yang
Water and Fire mutually interact
Large Bear encircles the moon
Living Buddha holds up the heavens
Turn Heaven and Earth in front of your body
Golden Rooster twists its wings
Turn your head to look at the moon
Big Python turns its body
Up and Down coilings

At this point Dr. Yang demonstrates the complete set in continuous movements, repeating each of the forms six times, which would be less than normal.

All of these movements come from the Taijiquan form and should be familiar to anyone who practices Taijiquan. They are excellent for the practitioner when performed with the concentration and focus as demonstrated by Dr. Yang.

STATIONARY TAIJI QIGONG ROCKING SET

These exercises helps one to link all the parts, to realize the opposites and how they work together.
Embracing arms
Ward off
Roll back and press
Push
Rotating the ball

WALKING TAIJI QIGONG

This involves practicing one movement while stepping continuously, as when you do Cloud Hands and do ten to twenty repetitions without changing to other postures. The set is as follows:

Wave hands in clouds
Diagonal flying
Twist body and circle fists
Stepping leg
Brush knee and step forward
Repulse monkey
Snake steps down

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw some of the exercises on this DVD, as I had developed some of the same exercises, like the walking Taiji Qigong series, as a great way to learn and become comfortable with movements in the form. I frequently have advised students to take a movement and turn it into a mini set. I would usually pick whatever posture was giving me a hard time, and I would create a left and right, continuous way of doing the posture, which would enable me to begin to understand and learn the movements.

These exercises are very beneficial for being able to do the movements both on the left and the right, as well as learning how to make the movement circular, in that it can return to its beginning and begin anew.
Well, the title sure sounds simple enough. But in reality this is one loaded DVD, with enough material to keep a student busy for a long time. It's nice to be able to have your Qigong set come out of the Taijiquan movements, as they then become more of a complete, whole system.
Enjoy!!!!!

Qigong, or "energy work" is an ancient method of longevity exercises designed to maximize the generation and flow of inner energy ("chi" or "qi") in ones body.

There are literally hundreds of systems, schools and methods of qigong, but Tai Chi Chuan (Supreme Ultimate Boxing) is probably the most easily recognized (if not fully understood) of these.

This DVD from Dr. Yang, Jwing Ming incorporates many movements from Tai Chi Chuan, as well as various "stand-alone" qigong exercises, linking them into several exercise programs. Each program is designed with a different result in mind (relaxation, stengthening organs, martial power, etc).

Broken up into short, easily understandable sections, the session flows smoothly from a brief overview, to warm-ups, stretching, then proceeds to specific energy exercises by body part and/or chi channel.

The quality of instruction is superb, as each section opens with a stated goal, then leads the viewer through the sequences (with both a front and side view, shown simultaneously).

"Essence of Taiji Qigong" is one of those truly rare videos that enables a dedicated person to actually learn physical movement by watching and practicing along with the instructor.

This is an excellent example of what a "workout" video can (and should) be.

I love this DVD, and I have hundreds of books, tapes, dvd's about the Martial Arts. Other reviewers have listed the sequence of sets, so I will not repeat. Instead, I will tell you what I like about the format of this material. First, the narrator has a very strong, yet soft voice. Clear to understand his instructions and explanations. Second, the music track is relaxing and not grating like some other dvd's. Sets the mood for a great practice session. Third, this is a split screen so that you can see the movements for the front and side. Fourth, there is a prompt for inhale and exhale for those who want to follow the pace set by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming. Fifth, there are goals that are described for each movement, so you know what it is that you are working on. Last, but certainly not least, the Qigong sets, as done by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming are powerful, yet easy to follow.

There is a bonus in the DVD case. Look under the liner ads and you will find a wonderful chart showing the Seven Pairs of Corresponding Qi Gates.

If you value your health, get this DVD and the matching book and begin your practice. Wishing you strong, peaceful chi!

If you previously read my reviews regarding Taiji or Qigong, you know that I am a fan of Dr. Yang. Once again Dr. Yang provides us with a very interesting and informative DVD regarding these martial arts. This complements his book of the same title and demonstrates the movements in an easy to follow manner. More than that, he explains the purpose, the training and the importance of proper technique and forms.

Dr. Yang does indeed explain the "Essence" of these art forms which helps the student understand the fundementals and reasons behind the movements and lifestyle. He explains how these movements help regulate the body both internally and externally. Breathing techniques, regulation of body and mind and the history of the art form are fully and interestingly expounded upon.

While the title may be interpreted as being for beginners, advanced and intermediate students will also learn a great deal from this DVD. It is an excellent discourse of the basics of Taiji Qigong and anyone with a interest will be rewarded and receive a better education regarding this beautiful style of martial art. Personally, I fully enjoyed learning the reasons why I train, meditate and try to live according to the principles which Dr. Yang explains in his usual interesting style.

This DVD is another "must" for the serious student.

As a first time reviewer and having not taken any formal Qi Gong training, I felt this DVD might be too advanced for me. However, I was pleasantly surprised because it spoke clearly so even a novice, like myself, could understand and partake in the activities.
The DVD is listed at the highest skill level (third) so the second time viewing it I tried doing several of the exercises; and it didn't take long to get the feel that this was truly an in-depth art form.
As an aging 'baby boomer' I am searching for a type of exercise that is easy on my joints, yet effective with results. Qi Gong is the answer and I'm surprised that it (and Tai Chi) are not more popular. For myself, this practice is something I would want to do in private (or with a group that was doing the same thing) since the first series is learning the correct way to breath which, to an on-looker, can appear quite odd. However, Dr. Yang's explanations throughout are very clear and make a lot of sense. The goal being to regulate your body by being relaxed, centered, rooted and balanced.

There are five sections to this course and each section is clearly presented. The participant can choose which component is beneficial to them; whether it be a posture towards the left, right or using a circular movement. Each movement is shown at two angles so it's easier to tell if what you're doing is correct.
I definitely would recommend this video to all those wanting to learn about the Taijiquan form and I plan to incorporate this into my weekly routine.

This Video is full of So much information, and easy to follow breathing methods that you can watch over and over again, always gaining and learning something new. Studying this has helped me bridge many gaps in my Taiji, understanding and internal essence, aswell as feel. This is not a combat video, this is all revolved around internal arts. This Video is for anyone who wants to improve themselves. another gift of knowledge from Dr Ming.

This DVD is a great overview of taiji qigong. It begins with stretching and warm ups then progresses to standing meditation and finally to stationary and walking taiji qigong sets. Everything is demonstrated by Dr. Yang with very good form from two angles. The narration is clear and offers helpful descriptions and tips on what is being demonstrated. There is also a graphic denoting when to inhale/exhale during the technique. The techniques that make up the qigong sets are shown individually for learning and then the set is shown in its entirety. This DVD also covers the internal connections/structure needed to lead qi or express power. This progression of skills, with practice, will improve and develop the viewers ability to increase mobility and relaxation, regulate the mind and breathing, and sense/lead qi. In summary, I think this DVD offers very comprehensive coverage of taiji qigong and I recommend it for all tajiquan practitioners and also people who are after the numerous health benefits of qigong (such as increased immunity, mobility, stress release, whole body strengthening and coordination, etc.).

"The Essence of Taiji Qigong: The Internal Foundation Of Taijiquan" with Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming is a complimentary DVD to accompany the book of the same title. The book goes into more depth regarding the theory, while the DVD provides video instruction to assist with learning the movements.

The first four minutes of the program show Dr. Yang performing a series of movements while a narrator briefly tells the purpose behind Taiji Qigong.

Next, come the Qigong Training Procedures: Regulating the body, regulating the breathing, regulating the mind, regulating the Qi, and regulating the spirit. The narrator gives brief descriptions of what you are doing while Dr. Yang performs movements on screen. Not, the descriptions are not regarding the movements Dr. Yang is performing, but the general goals of the procedures. The narrator then lists a couple important points about practice.

We are now about seven minutes into the DVD and we get to the Stretching section. First, the goals of stretching are shared. Dr. Yang performs a series of stretches while music plays. This goes right into the warming up section that follows the same format. The narrator shares the goals as Dr. Yang performs the movements for various parts of the body.

Around the 29 minute mark, Dr. Yang shows the Wai Dan Standing Still Meditation. Then at 32 minutes we see the moving taiji qigong. First, there are three sets of Stationary Taiji Qigong: Primary, Coiling, and Rocking Sets. The movements of the sets are taught, and then illustrated continuously. At the 92 minute mark, Walking Taiji Qigong is discussed and demonstrated. The picture is clear, Dr. Yang moves gracefully as always, and the narrator's voice is easy to understand, as are the subtitles. The DVD also contains the standard YMAA extras.

Over all, I would highly recommend this DVD and the companion book to anyone interested in learning more about Taiji Qigong. I think these two resources would help the Taiji practitioner with understanding and training. So, why only 4 stars? Because I much prefer the DVDs where Dr. Yang actually teaches to the camera. Those DVDs are like you are there learning from him. This DVD just shows him going through the motions as you listen to the narrator. Also, to get the maximum benefit from this DVD, you must use it in conjunction with the book of the same title. I'm glad to have this DVD in my library, and I'll practice some of the movements from it. However, it is not my favorite Qigong resource by Dr. Yang. Add it to your library, but be sure to get his other DVDs to deepen your understanding too.

Reviewed by Alain Burrese, J.D., author of the Lock On Joint Locking Essentials series.

I wholeheartedly recommend this dvd in conjunction with Dr. Yang's book of the same title. Once again, he goes far beyond what the average instructor offers. Qigong is a necessary aspect of tai chi chuan, whether you are studying for health or martial arts.

Qigong, used by many as only a warm up, is far far more. It will increase your flexibility, balance, and believe it or not, your strength. An intimate knowledge of qigong will improve your form greatly. From a martial perspective consider the value of body awareness, which will improve by leaps and bounds through constant practice of qigong and form.

For someone with an interest in increasing their knowledge of qigong and tai chi chuan you might also want to view Dr. Yang's Understanding QiGong series and works by Ramel Rones.

I am new to Taiji Quigong but after watching this video I am willing to give it a try. The video was of Dr. Yang doing the forms and techniques and a voice over guy explaining the things to look for and the history. I liked the concepts of teaching the healing, martial, and rooting body movements. I don't think enough martial arts look at the concept of using the entire body when teaching technique or form. I also liked that you had flashed across the TV screen breath and exhale to show where in the technique this is best done. Like I said before I am a newbie to this martial art but it looks to me like anyone newbie or pro can get something out of this video that will help them.