Soft Crane Qigong

Soft Crane Qigong is a gentle, energetic practice that imitates the motions of a crane.  Soft Crane Qigong comes from Martial Qigong and is focused connecting the six physical “bows” of the body (two legs, two arms, chest and back) with their energetic paths. This practice focuses on Grand Circulation breathing and keeping the body soft and relaxed while developing connected, whole body motion. The imagery used in the class is that of a crane on a reed in a marsh being blown about by the wind; it uses its wings and legs to maintain its balance.

Core Concepts:

The goal of Soft Crane Qigong is to train the connection between the body’s six physical power sources (legs, arms, chest and back) so that power can be expressed smoothly and effectively. At the same time, it is practiced softly and mindfully with Grand Circulation so that the Qi can be used to support the physical power. It is a wonderful flowing, gentle workout.

Skills taught in the class:

• Grand Circulation breathing: this is the foundation of Crane Qigong. In this training the practitioner learns to bring Qi out of the Governing and Conception vessels and lead it to the arms, hands and feet.
• Patterns: 24 movement patterns will be presented and trained in the class
• Stepping and movement: Once the student has begun to master the basic movement patterns, stepping will be introduced. Stepping combines whole body motion, momentum, balance and mental focus to allow smooth energy transfer while traveling or turning.
• Weight training: The material is presented without weights, but hand weights are frequently used to enhance power and strength. Students wishing to use weights can introduce them once the basic patterns have been learned and refined.