2008-09-06 Really enjoyable routine and clear instructions with DVD

If you're looking for something a little different in your Qi Gong Routine this will set the tone nicely. It's based on 5 animal exercises. Designed by Hua Tuo(25-220 ad). By observing the activities of tigers, deer, bears, monkeys and birds he found that animals perform certain movements to liven up their overall energy levels and good health.
The routine is designed to be performed linking the mind along with the animal movements. There are two movements per animal in this set. The 5 pairs of sets are very different to each other working with different types of exercises. For instance the tiger which is the first two movements are very different from each other. The first gently begins the routine and the second is a full body stretch that embraces the characteristics of the tiger.
The routine works the body with clever postures to stretch hard-to-reach areas:- such as between the shoulder blades.
If you fancy a standing stretching routine that has a great history, a lot of fun to perform then I highly recommend this routine. This routine is primarily performed in a forward facing manner. It's been re-worked from some of the older routines to be more standard and easier to learn.
Of course the most essential part of this set is that it comes with a DVD that is in English. The book has the background, history, step by step instructions and corrections to the routine.
A great compliment to this routine is the Yi Jin Jing. It's a Tendon - Muscle Strengthening Qi Gong Routine. The two routines are part of a 4 book/DVD Set embracing very popular Chinese Qi Gong Routines. I would say that this is an opportunity to learn core popular routines that have come from a great history.