Five Animal Frolics Qigong This series of movements was purportedly developed about two thousand years ago. It was conceived of, or popularized by, a physician named Hua Tou, who was also an accomplished martial artist. In acupuncture, the acu-points on either side of the spine are called the Hua Tou Family of Points. From thisContinue reading “Qigong Curriculum”
Author Archives: cotterkelsey
Stress and the Immune System
It’s well established that stress denigrates the immune system, so while in isolation it’s imperative to regulate your autonomic nervous system, which is either in “fight or flight”, or “rest and digest”. Deep, relaxed abdominal breathing regulates the autonomic nervous system via the Vegas nerve. Deep breathing whenever you remember to do it is ideal.Continue reading “Stress and the Immune System”
YouTube Channel
I started a YouTube channel today: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCHVHC211XPb0FqlFYgCGhGg
Five Animal First Set
Tiger Deer Bear Monkey Bird Qigong Set 01 Mountain Pose Feet within shoulder width, outsides of feet parallel (big toes might feel slightly pigeon-toed). Aim tailbone between heels and elongated lumbar vertebrae downwards. Sternum points straight ahead, don’t arch your back up or puff your chest up. Cervical vertebrae extend upwards, they don’t leanContinue reading “Five Animal First Set”
The Three Principles of Qigong/Taiji
The practice of qigong/taiji involves three principles. Everything else about it is an outward flowing of the three. There is no hierarchy among them, they simply must be practiced together in order for each to function correctly. The principles are abstract ideals evoked by the body, therefore it is simply impossible to do them perfectly.Continue reading “The Three Principles of Qigong/Taiji”
Judgment
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the act of judgment as a state of mind is not inherently negative. Our minds all have a framework for judgment that is so vital for survival, it is an ingrained part of us, not something learned or trained. For an evolutionary example, think to when our ancestors were arboreal.Continue reading “Judgment”
Basics for Health
1) Move every two hours. Go for a walk, do a set of mindful pushups, play with dogs, children, and friends. Do this daily, without exception. When ill, just stretch and breath deeply, when feeling good, do something more strenuous. 2) Don’t eat processed foods. Ever. For any reason. This way, when you must, inContinue reading “Basics for Health”
Health for the Post-Industrialist
(Consult your primary care provider to ensure you are healthy enough to attempt the following exercises) While humans developed there was no need for an exercise routine or proper dietary guidelines. The lives of hunter-gathers consisted of copious walking, running, squatting, lifting, hurling, and bashing. Simply being alive was our active gym membership. Diet wasContinue reading “Health for the Post-Industrialist”
The Simple Guide to Health for Surviving Post-Industrial Times
1) Move every two hours. Go for a walk, do a set of mindful pushups, play with dogs, children, and friends. Do this daily, without exception. When ill, just stretch and breath deeply, when feeling good, do something more strenuous. 2) Don’t eat processed foods. Ever. For any reason. This way, when you must, inContinue reading “The Simple Guide to Health for Surviving Post-Industrial Times”
Oatmeal & Apples
Chop an apple into cubes, removing the core. Place chopped apples into a saucepan with 1 cup of water. Simmer for 10 minutes. After simmering for 10 minutes, add oatmeal and additional water (1 cup oatmeal = 1-3 additional cups of water, to taste). A pinch of salt, and several shakes of cinnamon (to taste). StirContinue reading “Oatmeal & Apples”