Small Circulation, or the Microcosmic Orbit, is the practice of circulating energy, within the human body, Qi, through the two main pathways, or «vessels» of the body. This practice is considered to be the foundation of Internal Elixir Qigong, and was a fundamental step on the path of meditation training in ancient times. Over the centuries, this practice has slowly been lost from many meditation traditions, and its importance has been forgotten. Small Circulation regulates the Qi circulating in the Twelve Primary Qi channels, making it abundant throughout the entire body, which has been known for centuries for promoting health and longevity. This is also the foundation of Muscle/Tendon Changing Qigong (Yi Jin), which deeply conditions and strengthens the body. It is advised that you begin your meditation training by practicing Embryonic Breathing, which will help you to establish your central energy system, and to conserve and store this energy to abundant levels. Building on this foundation, Small Circulation is the next required stage of meditation training. Ultimately, one then practices Grand Circulation Meditation, which circulates Qi everywhere in the body and exchanges it with partners and the surrounding environment. Its purpose is to open the third eye and reunite the human spirit with the spirit of nature. This book contains translation and analysis of many ancient documents used to transmit Small Circulation and Internal Elixir cultivation to future generations, and offers modern scientific explanation for learning and training safely. Though meditation is popular today for relaxation and general health, the ultimate goal of this training, in both Daoism (Taoism) and Buddhism, is spiritual enlightenment. Small Circulation Meditation builds the body from weak to strong and trains the mind to be calm and focused. Dr. Yang presents a modern method for learning safely. Includes scientific analysis, translation and commentary of ancient documents, and a summary of the practice methods.
The Root of Spiritual Enlightenment Chinese Qigong can be generally categorized into External Elixir (Wai Dan) and Internal Elixir (Nei Dan) Qigong. The first step of practicing Internal Elixir Qigong has been known as Small Cyclic Heaven (Small Circulation or Microcosmic Meditation). After completing Small Cyclic Heaven, a practitioner will learn Grand Cyclic Heaven (Grand Circulation or Macrocosmic Meditation). The purpose of Grand Cyclic Heaven is to re-open the Heaven Eye (Third Eye) to unite the natural spirit and human spirit. This is the ultimate goal of spiritual enlightenment in both Daoism (Taoism) and Buddhism. Although these kinds of meditations are popular, very few scientific books or documents are available to the public. The Foundation of Internal Elixir Cultivation In order to reach the goal of longevity and spiritual enlightenment, the Qigong practitioner must learn Internal Elixir Qigong. The first step to learning is to understand the theory and the method of Embryonic Breathing. Practicing this breathing technique will help you to establish your central energy system, conserve your energy, and store this energy to abundant levels. Once you have established this foundation, you will be able to practice Small Cyclic Heaven (Small Circulation or Microcosmic Orbit) and Grand Cyclic Heaven (Grand Circulation of Macrocosmic Orbit) effectively. It is understood that without this foundation, the root of spiritual enlightenment will not be established and the study and the practice of spiritual enlightenment, through meditation, will be in vain. Embryonic Breathing theory and techniques were kept secret in Buddhist and Daoist (Taoist) monasteries. Dr. Yang discusses most of the available documents, translates and comments upon them. Scientific analysis and summary of the practice methods. A comprehensive, straightforward way to understand and practice Embryonic Breathing.
Today, more doctors than ever are prescribing tai chi for patients recovering from injury, illness, and surgery. This book presents over ten years of research into how and why tai chi benefits health from an evidence-based, medical perspective. Dr. Peter Anthony Gryffin demonstrates the link between health and metarobics, his term for slow, meditative exercises that enhance blood oxygen saturation, diffusion, and oxygen-based metabolism. Metarobics—including tai chi, qigong, and yoga—focus on relaxation and deep breathing. Dr. Gryffin’s research shows that these exercises offer a wide range of benefits for treating chronic disease. Dr. Gryffin cites numerous scientific studies as well as testimonials from patients who have experienced the natural healing benefits of metarobic exercise. Many have surmounted chronic health problems to improve their quality of life. Some even overcame grave diagnoses. This book features: More than 120 scientific studies on tai chi and other metarobic exercises More than 50 case stories from tai chi qigong, and yoga practitioners Clear, straightforward language Tested guidelines to improve your metarobic exercise and maximize health benefits “This book presents over ten years of research into how and why tai chi benefits health from a physiological perspective,” Dr. Gryffin says. “The links I discovered will allow everyone from novice students to veteran teachers to maximize benefits for health and chronic conditions.” In 1968, Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s book Aerobics changed the world of health and fitness. Mindful Exercise: Metarobics , Healing, and the Power of Tai Chi is the next step in this evolution.
A SIMPLE LYING DOWN ROUTINE FOR EVERYONE Each morning before getting out of bed, Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming practices a series of movements he has combined based on decades of experience. In Meridian Qigong Exercises , Dr. Yang teaches you his special daily exercise routine. Follow along and learn how a unique combination of simple yoga stretches, qigong movements, and acupressure techniques can relieve energy stagnation and rejuvenate your entire body. All the exercises can be performed lying down or sitting, if preferred. Meridian qigong will quickly improve your general health, helping you to heal and preventing injuries. With regular practice you will notice your entire body feels loose and comfortable. You will react to stress with a greater sense of calm, and your circulation will increase. With this book you will: Understand the link between yoga and qigong Learn basic acupressure with traditional tui na (pushing and grabbing) and dian xue (cavity pressing) techniques Supplement your qigong practice with yoga stretches Know which acupoints and meridians to stimulate Relieve many common ailments, including insomnia “In this book, I have compiled this qigong practice from my more than fifty years of practicing and teaching experience,” Dr. Yang writes. “I sincerely hope that Meridian Qigong Exercises are able to inspire you and make your life healthier.” Dr. Yang is among the world’s most respected instructors of martial arts, tai chi, and qigong. Meridian Qigong Exercises is a profound addition to his incredible body of work.
BECAUSE NOT ALL KRAV MAGA IS THE SAME TM Israeli krav maga is the official self-defense system of the Israel Defense Forces. Krav maga training shares the same principles for civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel alike to deliver them from harm's way. Goals however, are different for law enforcement and military personnel. This book is designed for security-conscious civilians, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals alike who want to improve their chances of not just surviving an armed attack, but increase the odds of prevailing without serious injury. Krav maga's popularity in professional law enforcement, military, and security circles is attributable to its practicality, simplicity, quick retention, easy learning curve, and brutal effectiveness. This effectiveness is built on a few core tenets and simple building blocks. General principles are applied and customized to suit the needs of a dynamic violent situation. Contents include: Mind-sets, reactions, and tactics in response to violence The highest-level counters against multiple armed attacks and threats Core kick, clinch, and tackle defenses Core ground survival tactics Multiple-opponent strategies and tactics Impact weapon defenses Edged weapon defenses Firearm disarms and retention Includes 954 detailed photographs The most up-to-date tactics presented in this book focus on the most common violent scenarios. These techniques derive from the author's translation of the Israeli Krav Maga Association (IKMA) curriculum. The IKMA is the governing body for krav maga, recognized by the Israeli government and headed by Grandmaster Haim Gidon. Responsible people seek krav maga training as a shield against violence.
As a lifelong student of martial arts, J. D. Swanson, Ph.D., had searched through piles of books on form and function. Stand here, they said. Step there. But where movement was concerned, not one of them went deep enough. No one discussed dynamics―the actual feeling of the moves. Martial instruction, both in print and in person, tends to focus on stances and finishing positions. But dynamics, motion, sensation…they are karate's connective tissue―and they are the heart of this book. Karate Science: Dynamic Movement will help you understand the mechanics of the human body. Swanson describes these principles in incredible detail, drawing on examples from several styles of karate, as well as aikido, taekwondo, and judo. Whatever your martial background, applying this knowledge will make your techniques better, stronger, and faster. Understand the major types of techniques, including their outward appearances and internal feelings. Master the core principles behind these feelings. Learn the biomechanics and dynamics of core movement. Karate Science: Dynamic Movement is filled with examples, anecdotes, and beautiful illustrations. Although Shotokan karate is the author's frame of reference, the principles of human mechanics translate to all martial styles. This book features Clear and insightful explanations of dynamic movement. Over 100 illustrations. Profound but accessible analysis of the kihon, or fundamentals of Shotokan karate. “ Karate Science: Dynamic Movement is rooted in the teachings of the masters,” Swanson says. “This book nucleates that knowledge, clarifying and distilling the key principles behind movement dynamics. This is the next evolution of karate books.”
Survival Favors the Prepared Mind —Robert Crowley This book stands alone as an introduction to the context of self-defense. There are seven elements that must be addressed to bring self-defense training to something approaching ‘complete.’ Any training that dismisses any of these areas leaves you vulnerable. 1. Legal and ethical implications. A student learning self-defense must learn force law. Otherwise it is possible to train to go to prison. Side by side with the legal rules, every student must explore his or her own ethical limitations. Most do not really know where this ethical line lies within them. 2. Violence dynamics. Self-defense must teach how attacks happen. Students must be able to recognize an attack before it happens and know what kind they are facing. 3. Avoidance. Students need to learn and practice not fighting. Learning includes escape and evasion, verbal de-escalation, and also pure-not-be there avoidance. 4. Counter-ambush. If the student didn’t see the precursors or couldn’t successfully avoid the encounter he or she will need a handful of actions trained to reflex level for a sudden violent attack. 5. Breaking the freeze. Freezing is almost universal in a sudden attack. Students must learn to recognize a freeze and break out of one. 6. The fight itself. Most martial arts and self-defense instructors concentrate their time right here. What is taught just needs to be in line with how violence happens in the world. 7. The aftermath. There are potential legal, psychological, and medical effects of engaging in violence no matter how justified. Advanced preparation is critical. Any teacher or student of self-defense, anyone interested in self-defense, and any person who desires a deeper understanding of violence needs to read this book. We strongly recommend this book to anybody wishing to learn self-defense, or understand how to stay safe should violence rear it's ugly head
Whether you are a law enforcement officer seeking to improve your edge or a martial artist wanting to expand your knowledge of street-proven techniques, you will find Defensive Tactics: Street-Proven Arrest and Control Techniques is filled with invaluable information to prepare you for even the most difficult scenarios. Highlights include: Joint manipulation that works Leverage control vs. pain control Striking with the hands, feet, forearms, and elbows Safely and quickly crossing the gap Blocking an assailant’s strikes Using vulnerable points to gain compliance Head disorientation Safe application of carotid constriction or “sleeper” holds Controlling a suspect on the ground Arresting big guys Fighting concepts to take on patrol Weapon retention in close quarters and on the ground Loren W. Christensen is a retired cop and high-ranking martial artist who survived everything the mean streets threw at him, working patrol, gang enforcement, and dignitary protection. Defensive Tactics goes beyond what is taught in the academy, during an officer’s in-service training, and what is allowed by the administration. This book also includes a chapter on proven ways to control a suspect on the ground, written by LAPD officer Mark Mireles, an MMA coach, police academy trainer, and champion wrestler.
In Brain Fitness Dr. Aihan Kuhn shares her expertise in tai chi, qigong, and medicine, giving readers exercises designed to prevent brain aging. This book represents a synthesis of Dr. Kuhn’s studies in martial arts as well as Eastern and Western healing. Tai chi and qigong practitioners around the world have long known that these arts promote fitness and self-defense. In this book Dr. Kuhn discusses their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits. She emphasizes how tai chi and qigong aid in memory, emotional balance, and lifelong learning. This book features: An illustrated manual detailing tai chi and qigong exercises to prevent brain aging Elements of Eastern and Western medicine combined to form a new vision of brain health Dr. Kuhn’s concise, accessible guidance from a lifetime of studying martial arts and medicine With this book you will: Learn Dr. Kuhn’s keys to prevent brain aging Discover the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits of tai chi Learn how tai chi and qigong assist in human healing Dr. Kuhn says we have long assumed that getting older means facing a decline in memory, attention span, numerical ability, creativity, alertness, learning ability, and language. " But we were wrong ,” she adds. “ New findings from science show that if the brain is consistently stimulated, no matter at what age, the brain can remain young and healthy. ” She has written Brain Fitness to help us all maintain that clarity, creativity, and vitality.