Qigong and its moving yoga-type exercises have been known to not only increase skeletal and muscular strength, but also help prevent falls by improving balance. These types of exercises along with deep breathing practices, activate the parasympathetic nervous system. It is this activation which allows the bodily functions to relax, regenerate and apparently return to a healthier state of performance.

The Eight Pieces of Brocade or 8 Sections of Silk is a very well-known Qigong set of exercises. It is known to have been composed sometime during the Southern Sung Dynasty of the 12th century by the famous Chinese general, Yueh Fei.  Yueh Fei was also known to have created Hsing I, an internal style of martial arts.  The purpose of these exercises was to engage the mind and body in order to balance and strengthen the body’s vital functions, as well as purge stagnant energy and toxins from the body. If practiced as simple physical exercises, one can loosen their muscles, improve posture, increase blood circulation, and relax the body as well as the mind.

These exercises and methods have been practiced and studied for hundreds of years to help maintain good health, prevent and sometimes cure diseases, to calm the mind, and uplift the spirit of the person performing them.  Ancient literature shows and explains body postures and exercise routines similar to the Eight Pieces of Brocade but dating back roughly 2,100 years.  This is important in establishing that these exercises and concepts are not a new fitness fad with little documented facts of actual benefits achieved.  Some doctors throughout China, often prescribe exercises like these to prevent of heal injuries, cure illness or disease and improve overall health.  This set is possibly the most popular and often practiced qigong (energy exercises) routines practiced throughout the world, maybe my millions of people.  It is just one of perhaps hundreds of different exercise sets in the vast qigong (or chi kung) category.

Jim Moltzan has been teaching Qigong, Tai Chi , Taoist Yoga, martial arts and various other alternative methods of fitness for over 35 years. He also offers classes on Mondays & Fridays at the Winter Park Presbyterian Church. He is also available for Group or Private lessons and lectures/seminars. Contact at www.MindAndBodyExercises.com or call 407-234-0119.