An annotated translation of the Lingbaobifa, Chapter 1
By Johannes Falkenburg
The Lingbaobifa is a Daoist classic that describes a ten-step process of cultivation which corresponds to the cosmic processes observed in nature. The first chapter addresses the interplay of yin and yang through the annual and daily cycles and also in the human body. Johannes Falkenburg has translated the text on the basis of his experiences with Chen style Taijiquan and points to connections between the Daoist practice of inner alchemy and the practice of Taijiquan.
»Looking back« and getting »back-up«
Perceiving and activating the Mingmen and opening experiential spaces
By Dietlind Zimmermann
If we want to develop a relaxed and strong centre, then we need to activate all structures in the abdomen and also at the ›rear side‹, in the lower back. Dietlind Zimmermann explains the significance of the mingmen area for a balanced pelvic space, good centring and a relaxed, upright posture. She also presents exercises with which we can increase our ability to sense and to ›let go‹ in this area.
Taiji Zhihui – The wisdom of Taijiquan
By Yang Jianchao
Taijiquan arose from Chinese culture and embodies many of its essential aspects, such as the interaction of yin and yang, and the importance of the golden mean and inner calm. Yang Jianchao explains these central aspects, which bring us closer to Chinese culture irrespective of the style or school and at the same time represent the special wisdom of Taijiquan.
Opening oneself to the original spirit
The still exercises of Bafanhuangong, Part 2
By Walter Gutheinz
In the previous issue, taking Fanhuangong as an example, Walter Gutheinz described the in- terplay of moving and still Qigong exercises: the first steps on the path involving progressive breathing techniques and a gradual calming of thoughts and emotions that enable one to approach the original spirit. In the second part he discusses the advanced stages »Origin of Heaven« and »The Clear Yang« in which the mind achieves calm and becomes clear like the constant cloudless sky. This is revealed by the slow theta waves, from which crests of gamma waves can extend: these waves accompany insights into non-duality, for instance, and also into the transience of all things. Here the author emphasises that the final stage of »awakened consciousness« or of unity-with-all may only be experienced, not acquired intentionally.
The secret of the circles and squares
Principles of He style Taijiquan and its effect
By Lin Li
He style Taijiquan, which developed out of Zhaobao Taijiquan, is one of the major styles in the People’s Republic of China but is still relatively unknown in our part of the world. Lin Li gives an overview of how this style arose and describes the specific requirements of the style which in particular are expressed by the circular manner of movement.