QI GONG TIPS

Punch with an Angry Gaze

This qi gong form is a bit different from previous ones because it is imitating an aggressive maneuver. But this is actually beneficial to the body because it helps to release any anger, tension or negative emotions that may be building up inside of your body while at the same time promoting a sense of power and strength. This is a good, cleansing ritual of negative energy or feelings.

Holding onto these feelings is damaging to the tissues and organs, or so Traditional Chinese Medicine believes. Practicing this ancient exercise is also thought to help improve the function of the liver. Additionally, the shoulders and wrists are particularly strengthened by these movements. Balance and coordination are practiced through the slow, gently, repeating motions of the exercise.

From the starting position, lift the left foot and move it out to your left so that your feet are slightly more than shoulders’ width apart. This strong, stable position, with the feet pointed forwards, parallel to each other, is called the ‘horse stance.’ It gives the body the balance needed to perform the movements that follow. The knees are slightly vent, not locked up – that would prevent the beneficial flow of oxygen throughout the body. The pelvis is tucked forward, the lower back muscles tightened and sturdy.

Move your arms from the ‘wu ji’ starting point, with the palms of the hands facing the thighs, so that arms are now positioned next to the waist and the palms are facing the ceiling, with the fingers slightly ‘cupped.’ From this position, slowly extend your right arm forward, rotating the wrist so that the fist is in a ‘punching’ position, the palm turned towards the floor. The arm moves slightly forward and up during this punch. Be sure to keep the movement slow – you are not actually punching, you are imitating the motion. You should exhale as you stretch the arm away from the body. Do not lean forward from the waist; only the arm is moving forward.

At the farthest point of this motion, hold it for a moment as you visualize an opponent at the receiving end of the punch. Open your eyes widely, and part the lips slightly. Imagine that all your heat, strength and courage is projected along your arm and against your opponent. Feel how strong and determined you are. If it helps, you should even actually produce a growling or snarling sound. The energy moves during your exhale from your center, along your arm and into the opponent.

Repeat the exercise, this time performing the ‘punch’ with the opposite arm. Continue to alternate between each arm, watching as your opponent is gradually defeated by your positive, strong energy. Remember to keep breathing as you perform the exercise; in through the nose, out through the mouth. You will know that you have completed the necessary repetitions when your imagined opponent is defeated or has disappeared. You should be feeling energized, powerful and relaxed. Be sure that you repeat the same number of repetitions on each side of the body so that you keep the body well balanced and aligned.

James Chen

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