Traditional Chinese Qigong: Levels I & II in Denver, CO with Eva Wong

Cultivate strength of body and calmness of mind through the ancient practice of qigong as presented by an authentic Taoist lineage holder.

In this two-day intensive held at Loews Denver Hotel we will cultivate strength of body and calmness of mind through the healing Taoist practice of qigong. Take this rare opportunity to receive instruction in two unique lineages, the Pre-celestial Limitless Gate School (Xiantianwujimen) and the Yiquan School, neither of which have previously been fully transmitted to students in the West. Xiantianwujimen was founded in the Song dynasty (circa 10th to 12th centuries) by Taoist sage Chen Xiyi, who is recognized as "the father of qigong.” This lineage specializes in using qigong techniques to build the foundation for sitting meditation. The Yiquan School was founded by Wang Xiangzhai in the early 20th century. Yiquan is most well-known for its standing qigong postures called Zhangzhuan, which are designed to still the mind while simultaneously gathering and circulating internal energy.

In Level I, we will practice techniques of inner and outer qigong, including tendon changing, marrow washing, self-massage and calisthenics, which strengthen the muscular-skeletal system, nourish the internal organs, circulate internal energy and still the mind. We will learn Chen Xiyi’s sleeping and walking qiqong and Wang Xiangzhai’s standing qigong. Eva will give a talk entitled "History of the Xiantianwujimen and Yiquan Lineages."

In Level II, we will delve more deeply, studying the Twelve Devas Tendon-Changing and Nine Self-Massage systems in their entirety. The Tendon-Changing postures are powerful techniques that cultivate flexibility, strength and softness in the joints, muscles and tendons. The self-massage exercises focus on nourishing the internal organs and facilitating the circulation of qi in the meridians. Eva will give a talk entitled "The Triplex Unity and the Picture of Internal Circulation."

New and experienced practitioners are welcome.

Required Reading: Nourishing the Essence of Life: The Outer, Inner, and Secret Teachings of Taoism by Eva Wong.

Eva Wong, author and translator of 13 books on the Taoist arts of health, meditation and qigong, is the 19th-generation lineage carrier of Xiantianwujimen Taoism (Pre-celestial Limitless Gate School of Taoism) and 3rd-generation student of Wang Xiangzhai, founder of Yiquan martial arts and Zhangzhuan (standing qigong).

The program will run both Saturday and Sunday from 9am to noon and 2pm to 5pm. The program price ($195 with preregistration) includes tuition and lunch (meal, tax, beverage and gratuity both Saturday and Sunday) at the Tuscany Restaurant in the hotel. For those traveling or not wanting to travel, Loews Denver Hotel is offering a room rate of $115 for Friday and Saturday nights (you may contact the Loews Denver Hotel at 303-639-1616 between 8am-5pm MT). Parking is free at the hotel.

Preregistration is highly encouraged. This program sold out well in advance last fall. If openings are still available, the charge for day of event registration will be $230.

Note: Traditional Chinese Qigong: Levels III, IV & V will be offered at Shambhala Mountain Center July 31 to August 6.