Embodied Wisdom: The Alchemy of Qigong and Meditation (TJ1C24)

Please only register for one of the two formats: On-Land or Online.

Registration will close at 3:00pm (US Pacific Time) on February 14, 2024. A waiting list will be created if the program fills early. A recording* will be available within 10 days of following each class.

Program to be held on the land and online!

Description:
This Qigong Dharma 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. Individual class dates not available for separate purchase.

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.

Class dates are: Feb 4, Mar 10, Apr 14, May 5; all classes are held on Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm US Pacific Time.

Sliding Scale: Our sliding scale options for this program include financial support for our teachers. Please consider paying at the highest rate that you can afford: your generosity supports teachers as well as Spirit Rock, staff, and your fellow practitioners.

On-Land Sliding Scale: (TJ1C24)**
Benefactor – $1008
Sustainer – $625
Basic – $300
Scholarship Rate (BIPOC, M/K) – $125
**Volunteer/Work Exchange opportunities, which include full or partial Scholarships, may be available for the in-person program. For more information, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteering@spiritrock.org.

Online Sliding Scale: (TJ1Z24)***
Benefactor – $1008
Sustainer – $500
Basic – $250
Scholarship Rate (BIPOC, M/K) – $95
***Online Program: All are welcome! No one will be turned away for lack of funds as space allows. For more information, please email Registration@spiritrock.org.

Access to Recording

• A recording will be available for all participants (on-land & online) following the program in approximately 10 days. You will have ~90 days from the original program date to view the recording.

On-Land Attendees

• The on-land program will take place in the Community Meditation Center (CMC) in the Great Hall.
• Bring a lunch and a water bottle. Lunch is not provided.
• This is NOT a residential retreat. Overnight accommodations are not provided.

COVID Safety Protocols for non-residential programs: details here.

Cancellation Policy for On-Land Day Programs:

• NO REFUNDS.
• Open Credit or Donation to Spirit Rock = cancel 2 or more business days prior to program (Pacific Time)
• No Open Credit = cancel less than 2 business days prior