Dao Yin are traditional Chinese exercises, many of which date back to 400 C.E. Dao Yin are characterized by gentle, smooth, rhythmic movements performed in various positions. These movements are meticulous and coordinated with relaxed, diaphragmatic breathing, focused awareness, and specific visualizations.

 

Dao Yin translates as “Guiding and Leading.” Using movements, breath, and intention, students learn to guide their awareness inside their bodies. Regular practice results in an increased awareness of health, activates the energy flow of the acupuncture meridians, transforms one’s consciousness of internal tension, and gently enhances one’s movement toward physical, mental, and emotional harmony.

 

Traditional Chinese theories recognized the importance of the human body as the ground substance for the transformation of mind and spirit. Most ancient Daoist and Traditional Chinese medical systems began with the physical strengthening and healing of the body before reaching toward other goals.

 

This course fuses his soft tissue and breathing physiology knowledge with the traditional Dao Yin stretching and strengthening exercises as practiced by the Li family for the last 400 years . These exercises stimulate the myofascial
tissues, internal organs, nervous system, lymphatic system, cardiovascular system, and Qi meridian system.

 

There will be gentle bending and twisting of the spine. If you require accommodation of some sort, please contact Orchard Kung Fu to determine such possibility.

 

Prerequisites

None. The course is open to those 16 years of age and up.

 

Time

This is a morning class held twice weekly. See Schedule for more information. 

 

Uniform

A T-shirt and comfortable sweatpants and indoor shoes are all that is necessary to begin. For students who have practiced at least three months, school T-shirts and traditional, black Hanzifu (“Kung-fu” uniforms) are required. 

 

Curriculum

This ongoing course will cover Dao Yin in a variety of reclining, sitting, and standing positions.