On-Land Class Series

Embodied Wisdom: The Alchemy of Qigong and Meditation

This QigongDharma program is designed for both novices and seasoned practitioners in meditation and Qigong. It is structured to support and nurture growth through a progressive curriculum that can be tailored to the unique path of each individual. Included are practice logs, guided meditation, Qigong sessions with interactive commentary, and dynamic Q&A sessions. This immersive journey is crafted to transition participants from the initiation of their practice to establishing a lifelong, meaningful routine.   Month #1 – Initiation Initiation is the doorway to the profound realms of Qigong and Dharma. Participants will embark on an exploration of the symbiosis between meditative and spiritual practices and the physical discipline of Qigong. Our aim is to embody the teachings within Buddhist and Daoist traditions, synthesizing ancient wisdom with modern empirical insight. This month, we will focus on: Alignment and Presence in Posture: Participants will learn the practice of standing meditation, incorporating principles of proper alignment. Alternative postures will be provided to support varying abilities. Breath as Life's Rhythm: Emphasizing natural abdominal breathing, we will engage in exercises to enhance breath awareness and its health benefits. Cultivation of Attention: Techniques for developing a focused and expansive awareness will be introduced, setting the groundwork for more advanced practices. Fundamental Qigong Movements: A selection of core Qigong forms will be taught, tailored to be practiced consistently throughout the month.   Month #2 – Engagement With foundational practices established, the second month is centered on deepening engagement with the flows and forms of Qigong and meditation. Participants will refine techniques to nourish all facets of their being, learning to appreciate the practical benefits these disciplines offer. Key aspects of this month include: Enrichment of Practice: Together, we will work to further our Qigong and meditation techniques to cultivate a holistic sense of well-being. Application of Principles: Through lived experiences, participants will integrate guiding principles into their everyday life, enhancing the intrinsic value of their practice.   Month #3 – Deepening The third month ventures into the philosophical and practical applications of the 5 Elements Theory. The correlation between these elements and our health, personality, and connection to nature is profound and provides a transformative lens through which we can view ourselves and the world. This month’s focal points are: 5 Elements Theory: An in-depth exploration of the wood, fire, earth, metal, and water elements and their significance. Practical Qigong Forms: Practice of the five Qigong forms associated with each element, fostering an embodied understanding of the theory. Intuitive Integration: Facilitation of intuitive knowledge through regular practice, beyond intellectual comprehension. Month #4 – Continuance The final month consolidates the practice into a sustainable and evolving journey, reinforcing the value of meditation and its synergy with Qigong. Elements to be covered are: Rowing Qigong Forms: Learning three mindful Rowing Qigong forms, emphasizing fluidity and continuity in practice. Pathways of Progression: Discussion on how to maintain and advance practice across all domains of life. Personal Relevance and Evolution: Encouragement of participants to personalize their practice and pursue their unique path in the vast landscape of meditation and internal arts. Throughout this program, participants will be supported to not only learn but also to live the principles of QigongDharma, leading to a practice that is not just followed but truly inhabited. The curriculum is designed to be a transformative process, guiding participants to a place where Qigong and meditation become integral to their daily existence.

Teaching Team

Teja Bell

Teja Bell

Teacher

Teja Bell (Fudo Myoo Rōshi 老師) is a lineage dharma teacher and Rinzai Zen master. He is a 6th-degree Black Belt in Aikido and a life-long practitioner and teacher of Chinese Internal Arts and Qigong. Teja integrates dharma and qigong as embodied mindfulness. He taught over 150 retreats at SRMC.

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