Having introduced Qigong movement through the Five Stances, sessions will initially concentrate on how to integrate these stances through breath. Props may be used to develop muscle memory and physical strength. By renewed practice, stances will gradually flow from one into another by breath awareness. As we practice, we will then learn the sequence of the Baduanjin—the Eight Brocades, a practice that can become a daily routine for improved health.
The second part of the class will focus on Lojong, mind training exercises, in sitting meditation. Analytical meditation helps us consider obstacles in our lives that seem overwhelming in more expansive way. Through Lojong, we can transform the difficulties and challenges into a deeper realization of how this time when the world full of disturbance may be the best time to discover why our lives are meaningful and worthwhile.
BIO
Annie Bien is a poet, translator, and writer whose work bridges literature and spirituality. She has translated Tibetan Buddhist texts, published poetry collections, won flash fiction awards, and brings a lyrical voice to the stories of Tibetan saints.
Just published: The Magical Adventures of the Sixth Dalai Lama: His Life and Loves, co-authored with Robert A.F. Thurman – available here.
