The above image depicts the five animal spirits movements commonly called the "Five Animal Frolics". The Dr. Hua Tuo, whom also was a practitioner of "Tao", modeled five animal imitation exercises after five animals. It became a revered tradition and had been proven effective for the healing of imbalances. The animal spirit exercises (frolics) were the Crane, Bear, Monkey, Deer and Tiger. By performing "animal imitation" their characteristic movements; people can alleviate the imbalanced functioning of the five Yin organs and their Yang organs (Zang Fu). The tradition proves itself through actual practice of the animal sequence's. The movements of a particular "Spirit of The Animal" stimulate a particular five-element organ/meridian system. For anyone who considers themselves healthy, any of the Five Animal Frolics or the complete set can be used for wonderful health maintenance to maintain balanced health.
I have used this set for my own health as well as people whom are extremely stressed out and busy. Its a tradition that everyone will find their own way with it; one can adapt it in the "Spirit of the Animal" as well. The practice effectively remove tension, stress, anger, and anxiety. It is also very enjoyable and fun; most people these days practice Qigong with too much serious somber attitudes. I don't know why? There is nothing wrong with natural joy and smiling (face smiles whole body smiles). These traditions should feel enjoyable and a sense of like being on retreat. This kind of insight can lead also into your informal practice times and work. Watch Alan Watts here: http://www.qigonghealingcenter.com/apps/videos/videos/show/18823471-finding-contentment- he teaches us in this archival footage of work as play; which simply is contentment in all you do!
Shape Shift into Animal Spirit
A key point which is often under estimated in this practice is proper use of imagination plays an important part in each of the frolics. It has been recognized for centuries that imagination is as much a reality as a material object, and at some level in fact, that they are one and the same. When we practice, our thoughts must be shifted into the "spirit imagery" of the animal. The imitation of the animals movements must be practiced in a free flowing manner. There are literally although over 60 modern adaptations of this traditional set. For those whom are curious look for a set that is not over complicated in the beginning that will allow you do grow into the tradition. You will need a beginning structure that is challenging but not over kill.
Five Animal Frolics Qigong share in similarities to Indian Yoga. It is dynamic and opens the body through flow. The Five Animal Frolics Qigong although takes things a step further. It moves away from static poses into restorative movements designed to better the flow of energy, so that those who practice can foster a balance between physical and mental health. The Robert Wood Johnson Medical School study found that women with severe fibromyalgia reported 73% less pain after just 5-7 sessions with Qigong practice and study. In Sweden they found that qigong helps women in their 40s naturally slow their heart rate and blood pressure. Practice like the Five Animal Frolics is considered to naturally relieve everything from afternoon slumps, stress to conditions such as depression, hypertension, fibromyalgia and arthritis.
While there are countless sequence forms to choose from the Five Animal Frolics is a tradition that has survived history. Consider it a practice to integrate into your life at least seasonally or when you feel to move stuck energy in your body. Its one of those practice that grows with time and can grow through practice. I recommend to students I teach the important ones are the Centering Meditation, Standing Qigong Traditions, Healing Sound Therapy and practice like the Five Animal Frolics style Qigong. If one can learn these four areas over a course of time it covers many important areas of great Qigong practice.
GWA
