DMP #35 - The Qigong Body Method
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ก.ย. 2024
- Chatting about the process of changing the body in Qigong. Damo is explaining how he views the moving exercises of any traditional Qigong system as being tools which are used to take the body through a series of transformational stages. The use of the Dan Tian and the palms is discussed along with the meaning of Yi Dao Qi Dao.
#damomitchell #qigongpodcast #bodychange
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This is probably the single most important talk about Qigong that I've listened to in my entire life. Now I have been practicing Qigong and (Internal) Chinese martial arts for over 15 years but always thought I didn't really get the benefits I was suppossed to get. Now I know why! Your videos here on TH-cam and also the material you share within the online academy are an absolute blessing to me - thank you so much for sharing this knowledge with the public!🙏
Not a failed podcast by any means. If people were honest/disillusioned about where they actually are in the practice, and what they are willing to put in and which results they wish to achieve, everyone across the board would be better. So many people truly believe that their level is the pinnacle of qigong/ Chinese medicine/ spirituality and never saw anyone demonstrate a higher skill and understanding. Thank you for the illuminating podcast.
Damo thankyou, I really apreciate your kindness and willingness to help others. You have been the best thing that i've discovered online and I am still grateful for that fateful day. Training within your school has been a joy and the seniors that you've helped train are delightful human beings.
Thanks Damo for presenting the steps that are required to develop ourselves and the path one must take, priceless.
First 😆
Damn it!
😅
This is pure gold! Thanks Damo, for sharing.
Hi Damo, thanks again for your podcasts as I find the information invaluable! I learn so much from what you are saying. 🌟
Definitely a great podcast, I find a different kind of deeper yin type power in the method for example in your instructional + demonatrated videos to move the qi down, and to nourish the kidneys. It's directly in line with my own personal life work and transformation, healing out of the soul-denying culture of go-go-go , produce-produce-produce, and the-only-reality-is-the-externally-observed-one. When you mentioned in this podcast that more advanced qi gong creates an expanding, stretching, and filling of cavities (with qi) inside the body, it kind of surprised me because that's exactly what I'm Intending to create inside my body, specifically on the right side of my body, since it has appeared to contract heavily , across numerous tissue types and across various organs . Top podcast mate .
Great info! Thank you for sharing. I agree that knowing the philosophy/theory helps to motivate and focus for daily practice.
This is what we westerners miss most about learning internal skills. Stages of development and their point.
Maybe it's just a need of my mind :) and now it's satisfied.
Thank you! 🙏
Your talks are so incredibly insightful. It’s like drinking from a fountain of knowledge.
Thank you!🙏
Qigong for me in the beginning was discovering the present moment.
A state where the mind is not thinking anymore, but there is independent joy and a curious awareness of the inner and outer merged as one. Mindfulness 😊
Always thankful for your teachings, Damo 🙏
- Paul
It wasn't a failed podcast, I learned a lot 🙂
You gave a very good explanation why at the beginning you don't practice Taijiquan very slowly like 'slow motion'...the 'slow' speed occurs at a higher level when the quality arises from within...and for you, actually it doesn't seem slow at all because there are many events and the moment is full.
Thank you for this video. I always agree with your explanations and as a LNG member it's wonderful to have genuine, knowledgeable and correct assistance on the path
Thanks Damo. Explained lots of what happens inside me that I haven't heard others discuss. The extra joints in the body comment really. resonated. Its a painful process. Thanks for some pointers on what to do next.
Thuis is certainly not a filedruk podcast. It is allways good and helpful to know or have some idea of where you are going or aiming for.
This was so helpful. Thank you Damo you have helped me a lot in understanding what’s going on internally.
Glad it was helpful!
Great! It helped me a lot.
So basically when the chi is build enough the shen can express itself more directly into the jing which is a denser elctro-magnetic goop.
I think this must be the same mechanism of kundalini because when i was having that energy move around it is very physical causing twist and turns and stretches
Some advice from The Buddha passed on by a seventy three year old:
The Buddha says, ideally, you want to make your mind like a broken gong. People can hit it, but there’s no reverberation.
🙏
Always please to hear! 🙏
Thank you 🙏 more gaps filled
Great! So lets not waist a lot of time: I want to go deep, so what are the actual practices can I apply to guide my body towards the transformational stages? Loved this and want to move forward, where to go, what to do, how to do?
Cheers
Damo, you are such a great teacher, thanks for this deep dive. I died laughing about the skinny thin chi gong... 🤣 But seriously, you helped me to feel less frustrated with my 2 decades of practice by sharing some pointers for the context, & the goal, that of finding & expressing my natural true inner Being.
Keep up the excellent work!
Thanks for sharing Damo.
When you mention it takes 3 years to build our DanTian, how many hours per day is that?
I think the more important aspect is consistency. Damo's said in the past that it's better to do a little bit consistently than short intense bursts followed by nothing. That being said, the DT building work is often about an hour or so for a set in my experience
@@stormbreaker123 Thank you for the information 🙂
really feel like I would like to delve deeper into this art a and way of Life
Magic Teachings thank you
Thank you - very helpful!
🙏🏻
Dots connecting big time.
I think it's a good podcast. My takeaway: Practicing the external movements of the internal arts without also building qi is like building a muscle-car with no engine, fuel-tank or fuel. Qi cultivation provides the missing components. A trained mind is the driver. You need all of them to be able to get anywhere. It takes maybe ten years of training to build and get that car out of the garage and on the road.
Fantastic, thank you
This was fascinating Damo. Thank you. During the pandemic i started trying to meditate and study as best i could the Mo Pai / John Chang method of Chi cultivation. I definitely started feeling vibrations and started feeling the dantien slightly start to develop. Couldn't stay focused in though as i now have little ones. But this the first i heard from you about developing and growing the Dantien in Chi Gong. All teachers just mentioned it in Chi Gong classes but failed to teach the necessity of developing it. Wondering if you know of the Mo Pai methodology and if sonwhat your thoughts are on it and how it might relate to what you spoke of here in this video?
Thank you
So I've been able to use qi from the very start. As long as I know how it works. I can emulate or simulate those vibrations with In my microcosm. It was only recently that I realized that I wasn't fully assimilating the qi. With in my cells. I was more like a way station for qi. It would pass through in a type of acknowledgement. And go on its way, and after watching for so long. I've picked up on its characteristics. But I didn't identify with them
It wasn't until I started to reflect in the actions of qi through our my entire body. That this little ball of mercury formed in my upper dan.
Thank you so much!
The palnt so hard to cuddle you 😂 Thank for the share!
Hi Damo, Thanks for the good video ( as usual ) . If you have the time to answer short Q or direct me to your video with such content. What is than exactly a channel in terms of qigong and tai chi if its completely different thing than TCM meridians. Thank you in advance! Greetings from Bulgaria
Maybe it is soon time for a Q and A video? They are building up….
Thank you
If a person feels a tennis ball shaped mass near the qi hai after a few months of practice, were they breathing into the false dan tien?
Da mo, I have some thoughts. Correct me, if I'm wrong. I think the skin level experiences are a product of qi gong and prana yama ( I do equate prana yamas with fire methods of qi gong), but not a high level of qi gong; and by that I mean I don't think it is simply body awareness. I,e., the manifestations are not just when one does qi gong, but because one does qi gong the experiences do arise. I am not talking about just when one does qi gong, but days and weeks after the effects can linger- and they can be very strong and in some cases very scary, and in my my case, for years after. And occasionally, if doing prana yamas, it will travel up my spine and can knock me out, like an uppercut (my head fills up with "qi" and feels like an uppercut, where I lose sight, and bodily function), and I go flying back or the experience collapses my hearing, sight and feeling, and I just fall down (in these cases I am aware of what goes on around me, but not able to respond or see; I'm just on the floor until my senses come back to me... takes about 15 to 30 seconds.) After practicing prana yamas and mid level yoga this can happen simply by stretching my arms up over my head, and squeezing my muscles around my spinal column, or by doing kapotasana, dhanurasana and other intense back bends. This leads me to believe that prana or qi, if you will, is being activated. Center of the forehead is often times, throughout the day, without me being focussed on that spot, is just out of control. This tells me it's not just physical sensations, as far as I can tell at this time. Anyway, your thoughts?
That's obviously not a good thing. You probably need a better teacher. Qigong can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Be careful bro 🙏
So it’s like spontaneous movement formed by the mind and body?
Not spontaneous as such :)
That plant looks likes a test for adequate equanimity.
Yes it is…..and I failed!
@@LotusNeiGong Lol - I thought you did pretty good with that leaf waving constantly next to your face.
one question please, do the eight pieces of brocade exercise also work on this principle?
I guess it would depend which version but, to me, yes :)
@@LotusNeiGong eight pieces of brocade is wajtan exercise yes ? qi accumulates in the limbs of the arm and leg nou? the formation of qi in the dantian is nejdan.
is it nejdan technique? forming qi and dantien ? why 8 pieces brocade is wajtan.?....
Thank you very much for your reply, Damo ..♥
Hi Damo
I have been working on the dantien within the scope of my own art standard yang style taichi. You mention the magnetic aspects of the dantien start to pull your body and abdominal contents on a subtle level and this is where I feel I have hit a snag in my development.
I did have surgery for a hernia years ago and I feel a pulling in that area in lower abdominal area which seems to pull on the scartissue left over.
Is it possible the work I have been doing would give power to the scartissue that causes more pull/distortion effect on surrouonding organs,tissue and fascia?
You mention the magetic effects and its subtle build-up, it feels quite physical and even painful at times but only in this particular area and I can even feel pulling from one side of the ear (ear tendons) or throat tendons or some other random area; and I pinned down the other pains are all emanating from the area of the scar tissue.
Is it possible to open up the ribcage cavity with the hands using some manner of hand posture utilizing the palm energy point to free up this area and get the cavity to expand and exert less pulling power on the affected organs, fascia and muscles, so that perhaps the qi can fill it. Is this possible?
Hiya, yes, more than possible to that the scar tissues pulls. Go gently with it and yes, since you have the laogong opened up, feel free to use this method to create space in the ribs for it. Go gently and work it open but don't drag it with force or butcher it!
@@LotusNeiGong Thankyou Damo.
Will it be possible to get that much needed expansion in the cavity without condensing the chi, which can only occur as one is able to produce more and more chi? I say this as, in the current state, I don't think I have all the physical or subtle tools to be able to create lots of chi. So I am wondering how effective will the laogong points in the hands be at effecting expansion in the cavity that is all bound up with the flesh and fascia. Will it be possible even?
I think you sound a bit elitist, but I do wudang so what do I know😂 From my experience the first stages of cultivation in wudang are the same. After that I can not tell because I did not get there. But have to say I like your podcasts because you summarize this information on easy to grasp way.
Well, pointing out mechanics that are missing from many systems will always make me sound elitist I guess. There are many systems out there that work by transforming the body in the right way and many others that do not; those that do not are usually either much more modern creations in line with contemporary Wushu principles or else they are lineages where were broken by a generation or two not getting the skills for some reason :)
The energy of the stars might come down and open my channels... sometimes it happens
I think you did a good job of attempting to demistify, simplify and present a practical explanation of genuine internal development. I can personally verify everything you have said and can also accept your subtle redefinition of the phrase "yi leads the chi" to the innate quality effects the chi which then effects the body. This after 23 years of taiji training - I still have plenty to learn and refine, as I understand even those such as Master Ma Yue Liang (Wu style) continued to evolve until their death. But far from a failed podcast in fact I think you should double down on this approach!
Do you know any animal frolics exercises?
But really "ancient" ones that Look more like an isometrics
The oldest animal frolics I have encountered are static pictures that produce strong internal reactions. They don't work like isometric exercises.
True that
Do u have any sources ? Link?
sounds like a lot of these practices have degraded and lost their 'power'. Now I understand when my teacher gets new students they drop all of their previous practices and say they have gotten more out 6 months practice then they got from 20 years practice of Tai Chi.
32:06
let me see if I get this right everybody's doing it wrong but you and you can see the movement of chi and cavities and the development of chi can come from layers in your mind right I do believe it's coming from your mind by the way and you can't show it and you can't really explain it so you say and you're a heathen and a philistine okay got it sure haha haha by the way this is not a negative comment it's a realistic one about chi nonsense maybe keep your chi to yourself rotfl
Ha ha, no, I didn't say everybody was doing it wrong but me. There are many out there doing it well but also many who are not. Different schools have different methods to achieve something similar but also there are indeed many who have nothing. Just like any other field of study in the world as far as I can see.
The Qi does not come from the mind, no, not at all, that isn't what I said. No, I dont have interest in the cultural baggage of the tradition but Qi is not a part of that. Yes , it is visible on the body and yes it makes tangible changes.
Carry on rolling on the floor laughing as it will make you happy even if you are an ignorant! :)
The Qigong Body Method: A Detailed Breakdown of Development
Part 1: Introduction & Critique of Common Approaches
A) The Misconception of Magical Movements:
This section introduces the core argument that simply performing qigong movements holds no inherent benefit unless paired with a deeper understanding of internal practice. It challenges the idea that specific movements magically nourish corresponding organs or channels. (0:00:08-0:02:50)
B) The Importance of Cultivating Surplus Chi:
Explores the concept of “surplus chi,” arguing that inherent bodily energy is insufficient for qigong practice. It emphasizes the need for specific training methods that transform the body into an efficient machine for chi production. (0:03:00-0:04:40)
C) Debunking Qigong Myths:
Dispels common qigong misconceptions, such as the belief that qigong operates on the same meridian lines as Chinese medicine, that deep breathing alone builds chi, or that visualizations or external forces are sufficient for energy cultivation. (0:04:40-10:00)
D) The Qigong Body Method:
A Focus on Transformation: Introduces the central concept of the “qigong body method,” arguing that true qigong focuses on using exercises as tools for internal transformation, rather than simply learning choreographed sequences. (0:10:00-0:18:00)
E. Beyond Choreography and Skin-Deep Practice:
Emphasizes the limitations of simply learning external choreography and criticizes approaches that rely solely on physical relaxation, arguing that these practices only engage with superficial levels of energy and sensation. (0:18:00- 0:20:00)
Part 2: The Stages of Qigong Body Transformation
Stage 1: Choreography & Conventional Movement:
Outlines the initial stage of learning qigong, focusing on mastering proper posture, alignment, and basic movement principles. Highlights the limitations of this stage, emphasizing that it doesn't yet engage with deeper levels of chi cultivation.
Stage 2: Dantian Development & Hand-Center Connection:
Introduces the dantian as the energetic center of the body and explains the importance of building its magnetism and connecting it to the hands. Explains how the movement of the hands can then be used to influence the internal organs and tissues, generating chi and facilitating deeper transformation. (0:20:00- 0:32:00)
Stage 3: Point Relationships & Internal Realignment:
Discusses the development of relationships between key energetic points in the body, such as the dantian, laogong points on the hands, and the crown of the head. Explains how these points create energetic triangles that, when activated by the movement of chi, can further refine and direct internal energy flow. (0:32:00- 0:38:00)
Stage 4: Yi Leads the Chi & the Emergence of Ziran:
Explores the concept of “yi leads the chi,” emphasizing the role of mental cultivation in shaping and guiding chi flow. Argues that through ethical and meditative practices, the mind can develop innate qualities that influence the body's energetic patterns, leading to a state of natural, effortless movement known as “ziran.” (0:38:00-0:42:00)
Part 3: Concluding Thoughts & Practical Implications
Choosing the Right Qigong Path: Concludes by emphasizing the diversity of qigong approaches and the importance of choosing a path that aligns with individual goals. Encourages awareness of the depth and commitment required for true chi cultivation while acknowledging the value of less demanding practices for those seeking primarily relaxation and physical movement. (0:42:00- 0:47:08)
You seem like a gracious and kind person. Thank you for sharing such a wealth of knowledge. It is valued and appreciated. Please take care of yourself so this knowledge can be shared for years to come. 🙏🏽
Some of us seniors just enjoy how different routines improve how we feel when we are doing them. It's important for our mental health to feel we can do something to make our bodies feel better. It isn't nothing.
Sure, and I think I may have said within the video that that’s a good thing and if people just want to move their body then Qigong is good.
I am just making the podcast here for those who wish to go deeper:)
I enjoyed that thanks 🙏❤️🙏
Brilliant
I think I’m getting to understand your sense of humor 😂 VERY informative podcast and you provided so much clarity for this Westerner whose a fanatic for Antiquity & the Roots of systems. Thank you for allowing us into your Mind Damo, extremely grateful. 🙏🏾
Hey Damo , big thanks again for grappling with needed , tricky explanations, much appreciated as ever 🙏🙏🙏
❤❤❤ funny. I don't have extra chi however I'm ok with the current level of what is cuz that is all I gots.
Thank you for your continued excellent and grounded input into Qigong. It brings to mind an experience in the mid nineties on a seminar with the then head of the Yang Family in London. It had been organised by a teacher and author of Yang Style Taijiquan.
His disappointment in how the majority of those present - a large hall packed to the gills - were not aligned nor integrated in their movement was obvious from his body language and what he had to say, the interpreter was very diplomatic . A day I will always remember so thank you again for bringing back the memories. Raymond
Thank you Damo for holding the space.... Hats off to the effort you have put into this and your dedication....
🙏
Very interesting: "The Qi is a bridge between the mind and the body."
Did the Buddha train his Dantien too?
So is the 3-5 year process of building Chi what primarily makes up the online courses.
A lot of it is, yes, and this is taught alongside various exercises
Thanks a lot Damo! One question: could you please elaborate on the take wudang did to neigong, taichi and kungfu? Did all the branches/ lineages from wudang mountains do the same or some followed a more "internal" approach to them (or in particular to qigong)?
Thanks again!❤
Ok, i just watched your last "cult leaders" podcast where you detail your experience on the wudang mountains.
My question more specific now: were they all cosplayers regarding kungfu? All the lineages? What about qigong and neigong? Did you have the oportunity to learn their take on those topics?
I'm asking because I'm currently attending wudang style classes in Spain and it's true that the training in my case does not really involve building of chi and so. (I'm lucky to attend to LNG online school so i now know what that is) I don't know whether it's the lineage, or the spanish level or just that I'm not worthy yet! 😅
And what about shaolin? I did some in the past and as i recall it also included some visualization and no DT field building...
The modern Wudang and Shaolin systems are all fine and dandy to practice. They are good exercise systems, but to me, they are not really internal systems at all. Yes, I visited all of the lineages on Wudang and went to Shaolin.
For people who want to explore Chinese culture and do some exercise, I think the Wudang lineages are good. For people who want to study inner work, they are the wrong tool
@@LotusNeiGongI really appreciate your sincerity. Thanks a lot!