The natural alignment process of Standing Post is second to none:
The dynamic practice cultivates wholesome power and physical equilibrium. The Mind and Breath methods cultivate Zheng Qi (true chi). Soft Qigong will transform not only your body but your entire way of life! The King of all Exercise, the Father of all Internal Kung Fu!
For more information: MIT Qigong Webpage
In November 2009, Master Shuren Ma visited MIT for the first MIT Qigong Seminar. Over 30 people were in attendance. He lead the group through his warm-up, followed by a 45 minute Zhan Zhuang practice. He then spoke to us about the history of Yiquan and his experiences with his uncle, Professor Yu, disciple of Wang XiangZhai. He concluded the seminar with empty force advanced techniques and pushing hands. We then went for a Chinese seafood dinner. Everybody had a great time. We hope to see him again soon.
Time lapse footage of Zhan Zhuang Yiquan training (Low Post). Captured during an Autumn day on the Boston Back Bay Esplanade. The MIT Dome and MIT Green Building are visible in the background. Share pictures of your practice with us: qi@mit.edu
In Day 9, we leave the Chinese country side and travel to the urban setting of Hong Kong. City life is busy and creates tension, but this pressure can be overcome through the simple exercises of Qigong. We begin with a new warm-up exercise: punch one fist out while chambering the second. We then move into the final position, the Low Post. Make sure your fingers are gently open. Your hands are not too forward, not too close to your body, somewhere in the middle. Two balloons under your arms, relax your chest, relax your shoulders. Don't stick out your belly or your bottom. Keep your body upright, in the middle, centered. Your eyes look forward, your ears can accept any noise. Breathe through your nose, very calm, quiet, and naturally. Professor Yu explains that zhan zhuang relaxes the brain, rests the brain. "As Mr. Wang Xiangzhai used to say: the advantage of zhan zhuang is that by entering into the practice the brain has a chance to rest. No other forms of exercise can achieve this. Most exercises put your mind in a state of excitement. If I stand still, I have a complete sense of safety, no fear of hurting myself, the mind is not excited, it is in a state of self-will. This makes it possible to concentrate fully on the exercise."
