East Asian Healing Systems

To put this in the open and to avoid more emails:

I receive many emails on who,what, or why of Chinese Medical Philosophy views of health versus Western Medicine if are similar or not. It's very easy to explain from my personal experience that East Asian Culture and Western Culture Western ways of thinking can be so dissimilar. On the most basic level Western Medical Doctors beliefs and attempts to be linear and logical, data driven and therapeutics driven to eliminate symptoms only. Whereas the Chinese Medical Philosophy beliefs are holistic, with an over-riding and practical concern for gaining well being, treating the root cause of dis-harmonies. The use of  Energy Body Cultivation (qigong), Meditation Systems, Herbs and Minerals, Massage and Acupuncture type therapies helps to make one more whole. Embedded within all this are unique spiritual beliefs and the practice systems of Taoism, Buddhism and Confucian Beliefs.

I started on this path as a young teenager after allergy shots and skin test left myself more empty and sick and probably would have been  better off if  I had not taken them. The practice systems of East Asia brought myself to learn how to control my health and what to do if problems erupted. I was although in a special situation where I had encountered real Masters of the Way through personal instruction. I have been very fortunate and many don't have this I understand. Most of the information Internet is very basic and in many ways quite empty. Below is a good book that has been around a long time that still accurate that I would recommend: 

 

A good book for the curious ones would be "The Web That has No Weaver " read here:

 

     

Web Has No Weaver

GWA

Affinity & The Way of the True Teacher ~ Sheng Ren Wu Wei Shifu (圣人 無為 師傅)

 

The Sheng Ren Wu Wei Shifu ( 圣人 無為 師傅) refers to the following: 

 

Sheng Ren ( 圣人): The one that follows the saintly way; is one who embodies the path & lives, breaths its wisdom.

Wu Wei ( 無為): Non impulsive actions, commonly referred as "empty action". The life code of the wise ones in which they follow ~ leading without pushing, doing without striving, living daily with what seems no agenda/goals or end in mind.

Shifu ( 師傅): A skillful Master of the tradition of their art they had embarked on many years in the making. A true Shifu is a longtime student before they are chosen for path of the skillful teacher.       

The teachers of the way generally don't advertise themselves, they will seem as a simple non de-script people. The Sheng Ren of "Tao & Buddhist Ways" look indifferently at fame, wealth, and personal glory. In many ways its against their code to recompense for teaching of Healing Meditation and Arts. They will generally accept donation system of "Dana"(pronounced "Donna) the way of generosity and allow the receiver to decide what it is worth to them and their personal situation. Recompense although is never demanded. This is how it always has been, but sometimes not followed by people of hubris and greed. 

For the teacher and the student of the way, there are almost Eight Billion humans (Fall 2020), of planet Earth! How many are we destined to meet? The true teachers you mentor under and students you teach is for sure a predestined affinity arranged by the Tao. If the teacher & students learn the transmitted traditions well, and utilize it for the better of humanity, people will become happier and more peaceful people, in this way the world can become a better balanced existence at some level.

 

GWA

 

 

 From Gary W. Abersold (Qigong Healing Centre): Below is a post that Master Yang has asked to be circulated to as many people that all connected to his teaching know. Many might not now that I studied with Master Yang when he had his school in Jamaica Plains Ma. for many years. My focus was the White Crane System,Tai Chi Chuan and his Massage Healing Traditions. Please share if you like its a excellent piece, which is so timely.

 

The Coronavirus Crisis – A Time for Us to Awaken

by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, YMAA CA Retreat Center, 3/18/2020

April 6, 2020

The human body was made to move and to exercise. It is the reason we have so many different muscles and joints. At the most basic level, movement and exercise will help your blood move, facilitating nourishment, repair, and energy circulation (Qì) in all of your body’s cells. The body functions most efficiently when this circulation is happening, and it is the foundation for a strong immune system.This article republished with permission. The views are those of its author.

Editorial note: The main point of this article is that in the big picture, we (humans) are relying on modern medicine to keep us from becoming ill. Whether you agree with the author or not, ask yourself “are we becoming naturally stronger or naturally weaker?”

Introduction

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic is a startling wake-up call to the entire human race. Although advances in science have enabled us to live more comfortably and conveniently than ever before, they have also caused us to rely too much on external remedies for our health and well-being. Nowadays, we often hide behind a wall of technology and chemicals to get better. Our natural immune systems have become unnaturally weak and compromised as a result. We have become “greenhouse” people, seemingly unable to survive without the high-tech amenities and drugs that have become so commonplace in today’s world. In the process, we have been changing nature on a global scale. Now, we must face the consequences and brace ourselves for the challenges that lay ahead. Our current ways of living do not show any signs of imminent change. Material and energy pollution will continue to change the environment in ways we do not expect and are unprepared for, ultimately presenting the most difficult challenges to us, to nature, and to all other life on this planet.
Today we are finding that viruses are still periodically winning the battle over modern medicine, despite all of the great strides we have made in medical research. Viruses have evolved and become much deadlier than what they used to be. Meanwhile, our own capability to adapt and evolve, as these viruses have, has become stagnant because of the very environment we created in order to live a safer and more comfortable life. We need to make our immune system stronger, to try to keep up with pathogenic evolution. In ancient times, maintaining our health was much more imperative, given the absence of modern science. While overall life expectancy in the past was not as high as today, the average person was more adapted to a rougher and less merciful world. Our modern lifestyles have made us detached and ignorant of nature’s condition, and as a result, we fell behind in evolving together with it.

Our Disconnect from Nature

The nature of humans contradicts, damages, and even alters the nature of the world we live in, not to mention the nature of the human body. Our habits and beliefs seem to encourage and promote a desensitized, incomplete understanding of nature. Time and time again, we are surprised and taken off guard by how nature responds. Natural disasters are a prime example. We are perhaps most familiar with natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, floods, tornadoes, etc. Diseases should also be included in this list, as they are very much a part of nature as well.
People with a higher level of awareness tend to have a better survival rate. They are the ones who take decisive actions in trying to prevent or entirely avoid disasters before they happen. Many of those who ignore warning signs or are incapable of making the necessary changes in their lives unfortunately often succumb to nature and perish. Before the time of such large urbanized environments and societies, I believe there was a greater pressure and urgency for us to develop and maintain this awareness. We have been increasingly distancing ourselves from nature over the past few centuries, ultimately making us ignorant of nature’s condition.

Humans have also strayed from nature because of war. Many of the wars and mass killings in our history were a direct result of the societal matrix that we ourselves have created. This matrix has no place in nature. It is the matrix that locks us into the bondage and dogmas of glory, dignity, power, wealth, desire, etc. We have been killing, conquering, enslaving, abusing, and taking advantage of each other for thousands of years, and sadly it still continues today, just in a less conspicuous way. The 21st century is truly the time to break free from this unnatural, corrupted pattern of behavior. We have focused too much of our attention and resources on developing the material sciences. Spirituality has been ignored. The time to change is now very crucial, because our wars today carry the threat of nuclear devastation.

 

Modern Medicine as a Supplement, Not a Replacement

Modern medicine has literally replaced some of our inherent abilities to survive in nature. Our abilities diminished over time because there was no longer a need to maintain them. Advances in medicine have resulted in a very successful pharmaceutical industry, one that allows us to shortcut solutions and continue neglecting our body’s natural survival mechanisms. The human body was not meant to be this passive. If we keep hiding ourselves behind this wall of modern medicine, then we will only continue to weaken.

Of course, we should continue researching and developing medical science to better face the unknowns of the new oncoming era, but we must also recognize that we should not and cannot rely on it completely. The environment is becoming more and more complex, and it will likely result in a day where modern medicine alone cannot overcome a disease. Our vulnerability as a race will become ever much more apparent then. It is hard to predict exactly how the environment will change due to the constant flow of pollution and new contaminants that humans keep introducing into nature. This includes artificial energy created from cell phone radiation, satellite technology, and light pollution, as well as material waste generated from manufacturing, power plants, and nonbiodegradable products. Viruses have evolved to a point where they occasionally still conquer both the environment and modern medicine. We must give ourselves the chance to evolve as well, to give ourselves another line of defense behind modern medicine.

At the most basic level, movement and exercise will help your blood move, facilitating nourishment, repair, and energy circulation (Qì) in all of your body’s cells. The body functions most efficiently when this circulation is happening, and it is the foundation for a strong immune system.

The human body was made to move and to exercise. It is the reason we have so many different muscles and joints. At the most basic level, movement and exercise will help your blood move, facilitating nourishment, repair, and energy circulation (Qì) in all of your body’s cells. The body functions most efficiently when this circulation is happening, and it is the foundation for a strong immune system. We move less now, due to the development of machines and modern transportation. Exercise has become more of a hobby, pastime, or luxury when in fact, it should be a daily necessity. Good health is often paired with an active lifestyle. The Chinese have long talked about Qì and the importance of Qìgōng for countless generations. Qìgōng is the traditional and most natural way to condition and strengthen our physical and mental bodies, and consequently, also our immune system. There is no mystery behind Qìgōng. At its core, Qìgōng is about the movement and circulation of energy. In fact, any form of exercise can be considered Qìgōng. Qìgōng was developed through thousands of years of experience, in accordance with nature and the human design. Eventually, the purpose for practicing Qìgōng became not just about health, but also spiritual cultivation. I believe reemphasizing the importance of Qìgōng practice will be central to regaining and utilizing the full potential and resiliency of our body’s original inner defense system. We must do more in educating each other on how to maintain and condition the immune system, and to establish a regular routine for self-maintenance and practice.

Qìgōng is the traditional and most natural way to condition and strengthen our physical and mental bodies, and consequently, also our immune system.

A Stronger Push for Data

Qìgōng, Tai Chi, Yoga, and other related disciplines are now recognized by more and more people as viable methods for improving health and the overall quality of life. These activities often involve exercise or movement, and a deliberate, focused use of the mind. The key is in the mind. We can make our immune systems stronger from the inside-out and depart from using drugs and technology to cure us from the outside-in. I hope to see more support for scientific research geared towards gathering the data we need to explain why these methods work. Although many white papers have already been published on various studies in these areas, I believe they are still too often overshadowed by Western medicine—what most people tend to find more convenient and believable. But many studies produced inconclusive results and require further experimentation and analysis. We are still missing the data to decisively prove or disprove certain theories.

My wish is to see governments, local leaders, universities, and those with the financial means to step up and encourage, promote, publicize, and demystify those Qìgōng secrets and ancient practice methods that can have the biggest health impacts on the world today. Recruiting the right instructors and professionals to teach, monitor, and run these studies is an important key to making this happen properly. Unfortunately, maintaining a consistent standard, especially in controlled studies, can be difficult because of the widespread confusion and misinformation about what Qìgōng is about and how to practice. There must be a more unified effort in pushing for better and more consistent data. I want to see Qìgōng proven as scientifically sound. As we gather more data, I believe we will likely be able to develop technology to manipulate Qì and even correct energy imbalances in the body.

I believe reemphasizing the importance of Qìgōng practice will be central to regaining and utilizing the full potential and resiliency of our body’s original inner defense system. We must do more in educating each other on how to maintain and condition the immune system, and to establish a regular routine for self-maintenance and practice.

Summary

Due to the rapid development of drugs and technology, we have been ignoring and downplaying the importance of maintaining a strong immune system for far too long. While we are developing modern medicine, we should not forget to also develop our own immune system. Modern medicine can serve as an effective barrier against many diseases and ailments, but history has shown us that it can and will still have limitations in the future. As viruses have continued to evolve into stronger variants of themselves, our own immune system defenses have conversely become depleted over time and overly dependent.

We should thoroughly examine the ancient knowledge of traditional methods and practices that are now available to us—experience, study, research, and experiment with them—to see what possibilities there are to revive our inner capabilities of natural defenses. I believe they are as important, if not more, than our current system of medical science. In cases where modern medicine falls short or is delayed, as is the present case with COVID-19, at least we will not be as susceptible to worst-case scenarios. The coronavirus crisis has made it very clear to us that human health will always be a global concern. We all live in the same environment. We are all a part of the same race. We all need to work together to effect a change.

Author Notes
I will be following this article with another titled The Scientific Foundation of the Ancient Chinese Secret of Youth, which will focus on the details of how you can rebuild your inner energy core and boost your immune system. My goal is to help you comprehend the scientific theory behind how the immune system works and highlight how ancient methods of practice can maximize its potential.
If you would like to share these articles with others, please feel free to link, repost, or translate them. It is my hope that the entire human race will unite and rise up to nature’s challenge.

*** If we wake up now, together, we can still make ourselves stronger and create a more sustainable future. ***

Tai Chi 氣 Chi Flow Teacher Announcement

Congratulations to Bella Hebert for passing the  Tai Chi ~Chi Flow (太極氣流) Teacher Certification Test. She is one of the first students I began teaching the beginning elements of the system to here in Michigan three years ago. Bella is now Certified in the Level I of the Tai Chi ~Chi Flow System. 

 Bella has been teaching Qigong classes for several years now, runs a ongoing Qigong program in Livonia and in Lyon Township. A dedicated Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan practitioner as well.  I met Bella way back in fall of 2002 when I taught my first large group class of Qigong at Renaissance Unity Church. She has been a dedicated student and practitioner for over 16 years and understands my teachings of my master Teachers better than anyway here at Qigong Healing Centre. 

She also is a woman of many talents certified in Jose Silva Meditation Method, excellent painter, licensed hair stylist for many decades with a private clientele, great parent and grandparent to her family and much more. The most admired quality of Bella besides here of her long list of achievements is that of a Genuine person. Students and friends like her classes because of her aura of receptivity to participate and enjoy life.

GWA 
   

New Certified Teacher in Tai Chi 氣 Chi Flow Level I (太極氣流) and Emei Lotus Tradition I

Congratulations to Kathy Liang for passing the Certification Test in  Tai Chi  氣 Chi Flow Level I (太極氣流), a student now - a teacher dedicated to the tradition. She also received a teacher Certificate in Emei Lotus Meditation  and  Certificate of Completion of the Emei 49 day Purification Tradition. She will have classes in North West Michigan area; for more information contact us through this website.

Kathy has been a rare student whom practices what she comes to class for. I can see it in her practice and how she carry's herself in daily life.  A student of the past 4 years of weekly private classes; she's a textbook perfect example of following traditional guidance through verbal instruction and one on one training.  A perfect example of real experiences gets you to the end goal, and learning how to integrate "Qigong Way of Life" in one's everday experience.

I have taken her through many traditional foundations and rare ritual practice of  Emei Mountain Healing that Master Wen Lei Chen had taught me many years ago in Windsor at Reaume Park. Today was coming full circle where had I met her four years ago as curious student; she now is one of my most competent teachers to share Health and Wellness practices of Qigong and Ritual Meditation. Great Job :)

Gary W. Abersold

     

Tai Chi 氣 Chi Flow Teacher Announcement

We had a great weekend of Qigong Classes and Teacher Certifications! Congratulations to Bella Hebert and Kathryn Trevethan in Tai Chi  氣 Chi Flow Level I (太極氣流). Both of them practiced diligently, understand this level and performed them correctly.  Very proud of my students and friends that practiced what I have taught in the public in the past many years.

This was the first weekend of classes since last September. I took time off from passing of my father and the loooong winter we had. Its encouraging to see students keep there practice strong without me there to prod them constantly. 

New student Qigong workshops are available generally on Saturdays at 3:00pm. In these workshop's I introduce you to the Chi Cultivation practice and Flow system. Comes with a reminder video and access to my email Qigong group. Great opportunity for those serious about really learning Qigong practice. You can reach me at taozahnchi@gmail.com

GWA


http://www.qigonghealingcenter.com/certified-teachers

Tao Teh Ching Chapter I: What is the Tao? (老子道德經)

Chapter I: What is the Tao? (老子道德經)

 Traditional Chinese: 道可道，非常道。名可名，非常名。無名天地之始；有名萬物之母。故常無欲，以觀其妙；常有欲，以觀其徼。此兩者，同出而異名，同謂之玄。玄之又玄，衆妙之門。

English Translation: 

The Tao which one can explain is not the unchanging Tao。The name which can one name is not the unchanging name。Nothingness is the name of the beginning of Heaven and Earth。Existence is the name of mother of all things。

Therefore one should always emphasize nothingness, if one desires to observe the marvelousness of the Tao; one should always emphasize existence if one desires to observe the limits of the Tao。

These two have the same origin but different names; one could call both of them profound。More profound than profound, they are the gate of all marvelous things 。

Elementary Commentary/Understanding:

The key concepts of what Lao Tsu is teaching us here from the beginning is that Tao is eternal, the nameless, the source and substance of all things as we know it. Concepts of the "named" and the "unchanging name" or even better the "nameless" are emphasized here. In East Asian Spiritual Studies the concept of a name is common throughout the land, but the revelations's of Lao Tsu's thoughts on life is unique in this respect. Many traditions thrust upon it's followers a correspondence of  names, individuals and actualities; to accept them as necessary as a pathway to goodness. Lao Tsu clearly in his writings rejects names, individuals in favor of the "nameless". This shows a radical departure from common tradition even in his ancient time when he wrote these statements out. 

Lao Tsu teaches us that "Tao" is the "unchanging nameless" origin of heaven and earth, and all creatures great and small. The simplicity message of "without names"; is to understand that when tagged "names, titles, etc" arises the oneness of Tao is split up into individual things with "names" which is for sure is a red flag - time to stop and check out, or  better yet get away from those kind of dis-empowering ideas.

Lao Tsu introduces ideas of "nothingness and existence", sometimes taught as "being and non being" which are important here, for in Lao Tsu's teaching's "Wu Ming" (無名: nameless, literally the nothingness name) is equivalent to non being and the named "You Ming/Yu Ming": (有名 the existence name) is commonly accepted as being. Followers of East Asian Studies are very familiar of "being and non being", or sometimes taught as "nothingness and existence". These are omni present in the melting pot of East Asian Thought Schools. Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian all share these ideas in their teachings for thousands of years. In some modern traditions it might read like " always be of no desires" and "always be of desires". The scholar who was responsible for the organization of the Tao Teh Ching, Wang Pi wrote based on his studies with Taoist of the Lao Tsu lineage that "all beings originated in "non being before being".

The term "Tao" (道) is used by Lao Tsu cautiously knowing that it's not entirely correct. The teachings of Wen Tsu the famous student of Lao Tsu ( 文子) explains it best:

Lao Tsu taught that "There is something, an undifferentiated whole, that was created before heaven and Earth. It has only abstract images, no solid form. It is deep, dark, silent and undefined, I donot hear it's voice! Assigning a name provisionally I call it "Tao".

***More updates to come on this entry; Meditate and ponder on the subtle treasures of the Tao ***

GWA

  

Positive Things to Focus On

Our destiny will be decided the same way it always has been: by all of us; by we, the people: by selfless and engaged citizens who step forward and speak out to guard the values that make us who we are — not just when there’s an election, but every day,” - President Barack Obama.

Dear Students, Friends and Colleague's of Qigong Healing Centre:

I would like to personally thank everyone for their generous contributions in all forms during the passing of my father. Time moves forward and each day gets better.  My father was a huge supporter of Chinese Medicine and had great results with it. The Herb Formula's, Acupuncture, and Qigong I administered to him made a huge difference in his life. He never suffered with typical Brain Cancer symptoms and was of great spirit to the end. In 20 years of various therapies and disorders he did very well.

Although like he had told me in the end "all life has to transform eventually even with the best measures at hand". The lesson to be shared here in my opinion, be there with your loved ones daily even if you know nothing except being a compassionate Father, Wife, Son or Daughter; the silent participation is healing and soothing for the afflicted. I was grateful to be in a position to be there for my father day and night. 

But Wow....much is going on in the Popular World!

Above I ran across the image and quote in my system today after reading all the emotional headlines going on Eminem,  Trump, tweets and lots of allegations in all forms happening. There's an old business lesson to be learned with all of this "its easy to point out problems; but ones that can change things for the better are truly agents of change". We need people to lead others to the change not just rant about it or blame others. 


 What I know for sure is that President Obama is still caring the torch to motivate people for collective change and a brighter future ahead. I don't like using this website as a sounding board for movements or politics, but I like what I see going on at: https://www.ofa.us/    

Don't forget this is the guy as a junior Senator wrote a visionary book with the best title for a book ever "The Audacity of Hope". Read if you have not, class updates and new material will be uploaded later this month. Keep strong with your personal practice, only you can achieve the results you seek. :)

GWA
    

Meditation Key to Better Qigong Skill

The practice of Meditation is the most underestimated practice in Qigong circles. All the top Masters I know have strong meditation practice in their personal life and so should you. I recommend practice in a group or a Theravada Buddhist Temple. In this way you can learn the original calming & insight system. In most cases these classes are offered by donation; so there really is no excuse not to practice. The above graphic gives the bullet points for the common user. Right Click and enlarge image.

GWA

Sterling Heights Michigan - Qigong Classes with Gary W. Abersold

Late Summer - Autumn Qigong Classes

 with

 Gary W. Abersold

Introduction: There are new Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow Classes being held in Sterling Heights Michigan. By end of September I will have three teachers Certified whom after a 1 1/2 years practice and learning with me can effectively begin to teach the Energy Release, Chi Cultivation and beginner Flow Forms. So until then I am the only one that can properly teach this tradition. My goal is to be able to offer this abroad in Health Clubs, Community Centres, Gilda's Club, Youth Homes, people that are incarcerated, Military personal and Veterans. It's easy to learn and I have a vast amount of resource material for the serious student, that comes with the practice.    

    This is a perfect practice for anyone looking to truly have a Qigong routine that delivers and one can count on, each and every day. There are many practices that I have taught over the last 21 years of teaching; the Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow System is a genuine approach for beginners or experienced practitioners looking for something different. The brilliance of the tradition is that it is very tangible, new students feel their energy very quickly. This is taught in China and abroad even in Wutang Taoist Temples, Groups. A friend of mine that is a Monk teaches his version of it to all his personal disciples as a base for their Tai Chi Chuan understanding.              

Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow (太極氣流): Syncretic System of Tai Chi Chuan, and Healing Qigong practice, which has became very popular, over the past 40 years in China. Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow is not "Tai Chi Chuan" (Martial Art Tai Chi) , it is a healing form of Tai Chi, emphasizing Chi Flow - "life force energy". It is the best practice for anyone looking for health and wellness; and will prepare one better for traditional Tai Chi Chuan Systems as well. It's the Tai Chi training that almost no community centre class will ever offer, that are all so needed .

Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow has been scientifically tested and medically proven. The first entry level practice is designed to improve the general health and well-being of the practitioner. The gentle flow patterns and stretching movements improve circulation and digestion. The chest exercises and controlled breathing are good for lung conditions and asthma. And the overall effect of the exercise is to reduce mental stress and physical tension carried in the muscles of the body. What can it do for you:

• Improves health

• Increases energy, agility and flexibility

• Loosens and strengthens joints and muscles

• Normalizes energy congestion

• Rejuvenates body, breath, energy, mind and spirits

• Dissolves stress away

• Develops concentration

• Balances emotions

This Tradition is very effective and easy to learn. It is practiced throughout Asia, and is considered a national health exercise in Malaysia and Indonesia. Come learn about this unique system and my Master Teacher's related healing modalities. A DVD and two Audio Cd's are provided for home learning, away from class. For more information email us at qigonghealingcentre@gmail.com

GWA

Expansion: New Locations for Qigong Classes

Participation in Life is Key - To Move Forward

Participation in life is key; Don't become the "would have, should have or could have person" one day in the rocking chair.  The important thing to do in learning and progressing in Qigong is getting practical experience. You cannot cultivate your Chi from reading a book, surfing the web or watching a video. It takes real practical experience; this is a big beginner tip. There are many benefits from being in a Qigong group such as learning faster, meeting like minded people who are into Qigong and hey how about mastering it! If you are reading this aren't you sick of being on the sidelines; get out of the drought and get your chi filled and activated.   

 It will take much effort and follow through in classes to begin to penetrate through the mystery of it all.  If you want more you have to participate for it. I have invested much personal effort in teaching various students on Qigong since 1994 and many now are certified in well rounded levels of qigong. one cannot go wrong with the teachers I have certified, they are all different and unique.

The following link can begin to get you started locally in Southeastern Michigan areas. Express your inner will and begin to reap the benefits from a timeless tradition that will add much quality and value to your personal and family life:

      http://www.qigonghealingcenter.com/certified-teachers

Qigong Classes at 80% Full..Few Spaces Remain

There are some openings left for Qigong Class Foundations. Group Class days are Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday morning at 10:00am in Sterling Heights only. Class teaches very specific Therapeutic Qigong Daily Routine and related Meditations for Heath and Wellness. Skill level is Beginner to intermediate level.

All of my morning appointment spaces are all booked. The only other time available is at 12:30pm or 1:00pm time slot. These spaces are available for students looking to sharpen their ability's or seeking personal assistance in healing complicated disorders. 

 Just as a note of interest I don't offer classes at nighttime. My practice is day hours only, under special short term circumstances I offer random workshop nights for special groups only.  To contact for classes or questions email me at taozahnchi@gmail.com I will get back with you within 24 hours.

Gary W Abersold 

 

Qigong Healing Centre

 Sterling Heights Michigan USA 

Book Review: Rujing and Still Qigong by Tianjun Liu

We have many Qigong books available in English now, which has not always been the case. There are although very few must have books on Qigong although. If one were to view what was published prior to internet you will only see credible teachers published, if you know what to look for. Most Qigong books are equal in the sense they give only a introduction on the view teaching and one must truly study with the teacher of the text or a genuine teacher with references, to make it come alive.  This is important so one can continue and make progress, receive pointers and motivation to excel forward. 

The Age of Self Identified Masters of the Way

Back in China throughout the Qigong boom of the 1980's through early 2000's there were many frauds. To publish a book  in China on Qigong one had very high scrutiny and were generally presented before peer review groups before the final manual was done. There is now what I call "Self Identified Masters of the Way", the internet, has exploded a whole range of questionable teachers, books, videos, web forums and online marketing. For the novice and desperate seeking information one could be overwhelmed very easily. Many are taken advantage of as well. 

 "Rujing and Still Qigong - The Key to the Qigong Meditation State", is a genuine book on Qigong for it explains in much detail on many aspects of standardized Qigong meditation. There are many terms and explanations here that are not available in English elsewhere.

 Practitioners will get much use out of this wonderful book for practices such as Taoist Zuo Wang Meditation, Zhan Zhuang, Standing Meditation or Postural Qigong or even simple natural meditation done as you know it. For Buddhist Meditation students it give them access to different perceptions of specialized terms and ideas of practice which is generally from Taoist Lineage practice. The term "Rujing" which is used mostly in Taoist lineage traditions means training/cultivating the mind to exist in tranquility, and one to feel fresh and alert . The book is a good book for non experts also - for it also explains concepts in modern terms and uses perspective's from western psychology, parapsychology and cognitive research. So I give it "two Thumbs up", get the book while it is in print!    

Gary W. Abersold

Architect of Self

~Create Your Own Path ~ Follow Your Own Aspirations ~

 ~Make Your Own Moves~ 

Message of the Moment: Best to be yourself rather than being a clone of someone else. Follow your path, embrace the aspirations you feel and yearn for. Take action - make your moves . Don't become "I would have, should have, could have been person".  Life will teach you that one must work hard to attain it. Whatever that passion is that has sparked a flame within you go after it! Most important thing is never second guess yourself.

GWA    

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Empower Yourself with the Tools of Preventative Health Care

 Are you ready (drum roll please) ~Tah Dah another President and another stab at trying to fix our Health Care System in the United States good luck, nobody has fixed it yet. President Obama although pointed the Country in the right direction with ACA, imperfect yes, but for the down and trodden gave them hope they would not die on the streets because of lack of economical viability. 

It is a sad state of affairs that we cannot have a national health care system, like that of almost anywhere else. The best chance we had although I believe was with Dennis Kucinich's proposal of  a universal single-payer, not-for-profit health care system, because that would have lift tens of millions of Americans out of poverty. A lofty dream... who am I kidding, our elected officials are predatory capitalist which makes you and me a cash crop for the Doctors, Insurance and the pharmaceutical companies. So lets face it the people that control this industry of Medicine which is great business really are out for just themselves.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Health Maintenance

 Traditional Chinese Medicine promotes health maintenance. Through our spiritual beliefs, foods, herbs and Healing Exercises/Meditations, people have successfully maintained great health. I personally began interest in East Asian Culture at age of 13 due to the very fact problems with limitations of Western Medicine. I had many health issues and have successfully been balanced from them for decades.  Will you still need western medicine?..for sure yes, but for the people whom lack that of economical viability Traditional Chinese Medicine could be a alternative if not a better choice in many ways. 

What the world will need is more properly trained teachers and therapist for the future to meet the needs of the public. Weekly healing support groups in many forms will be the gold for many. Teachers also need to offer the classes to all and not just the wealthy; for money is also a barrier for many to learn Traditional Chinese Medicine. If everyone has the tools of change at their disposal they would see that their need for the doctors will be less and less; stop making them rich, and you going broke! You would be surprised to know you can live a life free of over medication and doctor controlled lifestyle. The Qigong is the one tradition that can eradicate many common illness.

In closing I invite anyone looking to learn Qigong feel free to contact me, it's easy to learn and affordable. My classes are offered at affordable rates for almost any budget and noone is ever turned away because of their situation. I hope all the teachers I have taught will do the same as well. For one persona cannot do it alone. Below is a interesting series of journal articles by the Lancet Journal about US health and health care, which highlights how widening gaps of income inequality are driving increases in health inequity. Other contributory factors, including mass incarceration and structural racism, are evaluated, as is the impact of the Affordable Care Act. The Series warns of a 21st century health-poverty trap unless new interventions are implemented. Click the link below and see all related studies:

 

 

 http://www.thelancet.com/series/america-equity-equality-in-health

Question: How much practice is enough or required?

A common question often received in email is "It possible to do too much Tai Chi, Qigong or meditation? Every now and then students will ask me in classes, “How much practice is too much?” 

Introduction: A long time ago in a different place of time and space...It was the 1980's when I was learning these practice's. Beginning in Junior High School it was a vastly different culture and focus on standards of practice. It was very common to practice several hours a day, 3-6 times a week. There were very few Americans in these groups; it was mostly us guys in the classes as well. Many Masters did not allow women in the groups. A over the top dedication to your Sifu and the school was mandated as well. Students cleaned the school, helped the Master out with whatever they asked. Looking back I was young, fortunate and free from worldly obligations to fill up my day with practice in various forms. All information and techniques was personally and physically taught in person. We had to memorize practices on the spot, there were no video tapping or note taking as well.  

So it was a sink or swim game; we practiced more because everything was memorized and we had no Video Tapes, DVD's, Internet or handouts to fall back on. Was it better than today? I would say no, it was just different and each generation has it's value on how to educate for next generation of students. Today with fast pace of life, everything wired for speed many students just are not equipped to "woodshed" it out as in the old days. Many just don't see the value as well.       

With that being said I do believe that each generation should focus on "Qigong of today, Tai Chi of today or meditation standards of practice today". A worthwhile note as well is that typical in our culture, where we feel that if a little is good, more must be better. It is a common paradigm for Americans, to try and re-engineer anything we can get or hands on. This can be true with these traditions, but will only go so far. 

Cautionary Note for Eager Novice Teachers: A common problem is that many practitioners and teachers of today is they mis-appropriate practice, create their own video tape and water down way too many things. All good systems are well informed and documented in today's world. If you teach - promote your Teachers material, skills and all the great things you have learned along the way with them. There is nothing better than the original! Indigenous traditions should be honored in this way. Make no mistake about it, if you cheat your students out of crucial information and technique, they eventually will find out, and lose faith in the tradition. Many people in many areas have made many videos and books now and claim skills and backgrounds that they do not really have. This continues to be a problems filled with false and misleading information. Don't become part of the problem, be a genuine person focus on leading an example of quality and tradition.    

Less is More!

The Science in the study of Qigong, Tai Chi and Meditation says that as little as 20 minutes delivers very tangible results. One of my Master teacher's is now 80 years old, I asked him during a practice in May of 2016, "how much does he practice"? He said with his busy schedule he practice's still no more than one hour per day. He also practices what he teaches as well. 

There is no need to practice for hours a day, and when people report doing so, often times they are not really accomplishing much better skill as well. The purpose of these practices is to help us to balance ourselves and engage more fully and healthfully in life. If we do too much of anything, we cannot find balance. I will concur that for a modern person practicing up to an hour a day is more than sufficient. We can do two twenty-minute sessions, or one longer session, per day. I recommend that you start with only five to ten minutes a day accomplishable goals because it is easier to set aside such a small chunk of time every day, no matter how busy your lifestyle or daily schedule.


 The advantage of starting slowly and following "less is more" as bendable guideline is that as you begin to feel the effects, your desire to practice increases naturally. When that happens, there is no need to force ourself to practice and, in fact, forcing ourselves to practice rarely leads to an quality, long-term practice. In closing for us that engage in these traditions as a "way of life" take an honest look at your schedule and plan accordingly. It is best to set yourself up for success, rather than setting goals that will be hard to achieve. Sometimes more is just more; it which is not better. :)

GWA

On Saturday April 29, 2017 is the annual World Tai Chi & Qigong Day. Anyone is welcome to join my weekly Saturday Class at 10:00am - 1130am in Sterling heights Michigan.  In our group we practice Tai Chi Energy Cultivation, which teaches posture, energy flow, imagery meditation and proper breath technique. 

For over 40 + years the technique of Taiji Qi Liu (太極氣流) commonly refereed to as  Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow is intended for the common citizen for the promotion of good health. The first practice is intended for any health level and was originally designed as a rehabilitative sequence of movements.  Perfect for people who like stretching of muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. Vastly improves blood circulation and strengthen's the immune system. The practice is soft and flowing, and with tangible results. Every class you feel your energy, peace of mind and joy of Tai Chi and Qigong. 

The class will be hopefully outdoors depending on weather; if not we will be at my studio. For previous, or serious students that would like to practice email me below:

qigonghealingcentre@gmail.com 

Gary W. Abersold  

Morning classes Spring 2017 & Other Items

Daily Classes

There will be Daily Morning  Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow (太極氣流) Classes being taught in Sterling Heights and Troy areas in the morning time several times a week. These classes will be for the most part outside or on bad weather days at my studio or if possible shelter areas. All Classes are at 10:00am-11:15am. This practice is very popular and everyone that practices it daily feels great results.  If interested and to learn more contact us through email qigonghealingcentre@gmail.com and we will get back with you. 

***There will be no more night classes available. I have taught Daytime and Night classes for over 15 years. I am only teaching and doing other services now in the morning hours. Days hours are from 7am-4pm daily.*** Thank You to everyone who had participated in the night programs! 

Websites  

By choice my website presence is only here at this Qigong website. I don't do social media (facebook, twitter etc.); 99% of my students come from references, and don't see the point of it all. My preference is real time connection in person when possible. I do feel more and more people are developing serious addiction problems with these devices and don't want to be part of the problem. So you can say that I take a stand against the cyber world to a certain degree. I don't spend much time online only post when needed. :) Life is to be lived and experienced. I do check my email randomly in the early morning..

Gary W. Abersold

Qigong Healing Centre