Cultivate Boundless Energy & Internal Strength With Standing Qigong

Zhan Zhuang: Cultivate Boundless Energy & Internal Strength With Standing Qigong

You will discover the Qigong system with the longest history which traces back 27 centuries. It is the foundation of all Qigong and is characterised by its great effectiveness and efficiency.

Most Internal Martial Arts use some form of standing practice as foundation training (and Taijiquan is no exception in this regard). These standing exercises are usually called Zhan Zhuang (pole standing); sometimes they are called ‘standing Qigong’. I think it’s fair to say that most students are baffled by them. They are supposed to be good for you but most students find them difficult to understand, boring and painful. Yet they are supposed to relax you and help you to ‘accumulate Qi‘ or vital energy.

In this book, I explain, from a western perspective, why these exercises are so important both for Internal Martial Arts and Qigong.

Zhan Zhuang is pronounced “Jan Jong”, or in South China, “Jam Jong” and is best described as Standing Like A Tree.

In comparison to other methods, Zhan Zhuang develops our internal vitality in a very efficient way, instead of consuming it.

For most people, training in Zhan Zhuang is a complete surprise in the beginning. There are no recognisable external movements, although it is a highly energetic exercise system. In contrast to many other methods, Zhan Zhuang develops our internal energy in a very efficient way, instead of consuming it.

Zhan Zhuang Qigong is practised in well-balanced standing positions which increase the flow of energy and build up internal strength. The Zhan Zhuang system is based on a unique fusion of relaxation and exertion which stimulates, cleanses and massages the whole body.

Because Zhan Zhuang is so effective in raising our energy levels, it is often used as basic training for martial arts.

For a long time, Zhan Zhuang Qigong has been a well-kept secret. It is only since the mid-1940’s that Zhan Zhuang has been learnt and discussed publicly.

Discover the power of Zhan Zhuang Qigong

Table of Contents

Introduction

Zhan Zhuang & Yiquan

Qigong The Way of Energy

Neijia Internal Martial Arts

Returning to the Body

The Ancient Art of Standing Like a Tree

The Benefits of Zhan Zhuang

Your Center and Imagination

Visualise, Feel and Focus

The Practice of Zhan Zhuang

Basic Standing Meditation Posture Guidelines

The Quest For Harmony

How to Stand

How to Locate and Dissolve Tension

Helpful Tips for Beginners

Zhan Zhuang Bodily Sensations

How Long to Practice Standing Meditation

How to Close Your Standing Meditation

Instructions for Zhan Zhuang

Summary: Standing Like a Tree