Chinese Qigong Essentials, edited by Cen Yue Fang
English, New World Press, Beijing, 1996
Hardcover, 190 pages

Deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture, it is inseparable from ancient Chinese philosophy, medicine and religion. It is based on a wealth of theoretical concepts unique to China - the yin and yang, the five elements of nature, and the jingluo system in the body among others. These concepts are readily grasped by the Chinese, but may at first strike the uninitiated as incomprehensibly exotic. Yet, it is impossible to appreciate the true value of qigong without understanding its theoretical basis. The publication of this book help further popularize qigong outside China by explaining fundamental concepts pertaining to the art.

The book is written in three parts. Part I offers a general treatment of the subject, the meaning of qigong, its origin and development, basic principles and methods of practice, its value as a healing art, recent achievements in scientific research, etc. Part II introduces a range of basic exercises widely practice in China. Easy to learn and illustrated for convenience, the exercises detailed can be readily picked up by the reader. Though simple, these exercises have proved highly effective in maintaining goo9d health and fighting disease. Part III contains articles written by two North Americans about their personal experience in practicing qigong as a miraculously effective healing art.

Contents

Part II
Tips for Beginners
Common Reactions to Qigong Exercise: What to Do About Them
Zhuang Zi's Breath-Hearing Method for Achieving Tranquility"Joining Heaven and Earth": A Simple Exercise
Pouring Down Qi from Overhead
Ma Litang's Lying Exercises
Ma Litang's Sitting Exercises
Ma Litang's Standing Exercises
Ma Litang's Walking Exercises
Waist-Strengthening Exercise Based on Daoying
Taoist Rejuvenation Exercise
Taiji Groundwork Exercise
Self-Massage for Keeping Fit
Foot Exercise with a Rolling Stick
16-Line Qigong Formula