Tai Chi Qigong 18 Shibashi

Tai Chi Qigong 18 is also known as Shibashi consists of a series of 18 simple yet highly effective exercises which can help to promote the body’s natural healing, reduce stress and create a feeling of well-being. The Chinese have for thousands of years been aware of a system of internal energy which travels through a network of meridians or pathways in the body. Each meridian feeds the energetic system of a particular internal organ. If you can think about these pathways as rivers. When a river flows freely everything is fresh but if it becomes stagnant everything begins to decay as the vitality drains from it. The practice of Qigong works to regulate the flow of energy through these meridians ensuring you feel fresh, healthy and have positive vitality.  These simple and easy to learn exercises can produce positive results in practitioners of all ages and physical abilities. The simplicity of the exercises is an important aspect in that anyone can do them and everyone can feel better whatever your physical condition. Even if you’re new to Qigong you can find great benefits even by practising for 10 minutes a day.
If you pay attention to the following aspects you will also be able to attain many benefits.

1. Listen to your breath. The movements of Qigong should be practised with soft natural breathing. By taking a little time to listen to the pace and rhythm of your breathing you will be better able to move in harmony with it.
2. Be aware of your body. Pay attention to what your body feels like. You may have little aches or pains from time to time or perhaps a little restricted somewhere. Being mindful of what you feel like allows to gauge how much movement is required. Never stretch or try to over-do things.
3. Posture. Maintain good alignment and get a sense of a clear line from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Try to avoid crinking the neck and bowing the back or allowing the head to drop forward. Humans have evolved to be upright and the more you can maintain a feeling of being in alignment the better your body will be able to do its job of natural healing.
4. Focus and Intent. Once you become familiar with the sequences try to maintain a sense of focus or intent when practising. When you are mindful of your body’s movements and breath a state of meditative peace can be obtained and healing can occur.  
5. Be natural. Try to think about the natural movements of animals. Take a look at a cat or dog or even how birds fly. These creatures don’t carry the stresses and strains in their bodies that we humans do. Try to emulate the smooth easy natural movement that you can see in the rest of the natural world.