Course Overview

Spinal health is fundamental to overall wellness and can play a key role in therapeutic outcome when recovering from injury or illness. Full movement of the spine exercises the nervous system, improves visceral health, and opens circulation in the channel system through the proper engagement of the channel sinews (jingjin). This class will highlight a foundational Qigong pattern to mobilize key regions of the spine, engage the core musculature, and improve circulation in the organs. The class will highlight the relevant channel sinews (jingjin) involvement and address applications to health and wellness. These Qigong exercises can be practiced for one’s own health but can also be used in a clinical setting when treating patients. We will look at key variations, modifications for injuries, common errors in practice, and progressions to properly advance with the exercises.

Course Objectives

• Learn how to systematically engage the channel sinews (jingjin) to expand and compress the spine to improve mobility and create a strong core
• Understand how to avoid common errors and how to modify the movement for injury or pain
• Understand when to use simpler progressions that can add insight to the full movement

Course Outline

0 hrs - 15 minSeated Spinal Wave and Pelvic Movement

15 min - 30 minStanding Spinal Wave

30 min - 45 minPiston Squat (dūn yāo)

45 min - 1 hrsModifications and Common Errors