Two unique practices with something for everyone - whether you're a beginner or have practiced Qi Gong for years Qi Gong (CHEE-gong) is an ancient Chinese health system that promotes mental and physical balance and a feeli... more »ng of calm vitality. Millions of people have discovered the amazing benefits of these simple standing exercises, breathing, and slow repetitive natural movements. Filmed amid the beauty of California's Alabama hills, developed and taught by Chinese martial arts and Qi Gong expert Matthew Cohen, these two 40-minute programs cultivate calm, balanced energy and vitality, detoxify the body, and offer the practitioner a sense of inner peace. Fire heats and strengthens the body, activates and expands the senses, relieves depression, stimulates the immune system, and detoxifies the body. Water cools the body and calms the nervous system, develops grace and greater range of motion, promotes deep relaxation and releases tension, stress, anxiety, and fear. Includes bonus martial arts demonstrations and yoga mudras for health.« less
"QiGong sounds so wierd (it's pronounced CHEE-GUNG), but here in my little spa town, it's more popular than yoga. I love it because I don't have to change into workout clothes or lie down on the floor, but the effects are immediate -- something about the breathing and the movement together are instantly revitalizing. And it's much easier to learn than Tai Chi!
This program is my favorite because of the two practices: one hot and one cool. The FIRE program is great when I'm feeling sad or low on energy, or like I might be getting a cold. The WATER program is great for calming down if I'm angry or stressed, or if I can't sleep. Matthew's teaching is detailed and poetic, and the scenery is almost as healing as the practice!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!"
Well delivered lessons
Mike Scott | Oregon, USA | 01/27/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is the second Qi Gong DVD we're purchased and it is very comprehensive. I almost didn't pirchase it because the picture of Matthew Cohen on the front looks pretty hard core. I'm not a Kung Fu kind of guy. What my wife and I discovered once we started using it was a gentle and very realistic approach to a wonderful exercise form. This is really 2 sessions on one DVD. Both are very good. I recommend this DVD to anyone of any age as an introduction - moderate practice of Qi Gong."
AMAZING workout!!!
coolbeansM | CA girl at heart | 11/08/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is my first introduction to Qi Gong and I have to say I'm hooked!! Matthew is a great instructor--easy to follow and very detailed in his instruction, which has helped a newbie like me. I love that there are two workouts to choose from. And the location...WOW, like the program, just amazing!"
Fire and Water
Grace Mayorga | Emeryville, CA USA | 03/06/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Powerful and gentle are my two thoughts on this DVD. When I don't have the energy to drive to the gym for a workout or even use one of my yoga DVDs at home this is my first choice as an alternative.
It's a quiet practice, working with energy flow and intention. It's not about weights or how flexible you are - or are not. Perhaps if you have never been introduced to this type of practice it may be strange to hear about chi and meridians but if you have an open mind you can simply trust that it is working.
A little thing that I like is that when instruction is given to place your left foot forward, he places his right foot forward so that you are in a mirror image of him. This makes it easier to follow along without having to think too much.
Also, what I like is the option to do the practice with verbal instruction or with just the music once you feel comfortable enough to work without the verbal cues.
My only criticism is that I wish there was a way to pick and choose which exercises you will be doing before you start like in the yoga DVD "Kundalini Yoga for Beginners & Beyond."
This DVD focuses on balance and grace while building strength. It's an invitation to slow down and breathe using subtle and flowing movements. I always feel relaxed when I have finished, especially after the water segments."
One of the best Qi Gong dvds!
J. Campbell | California, USA | 07/23/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Wow! One of the best Qi Gong dvds by far. I almost didn't get it because one of the previews shows his demo routine (more complex), not the actual instruction. It's good for beginners, but don't kid yourself, if you keep at it you will increase strength, balance, & flexibility. This is an excellent production, showing front & side views. His instruction & commentary are detailed, clear & easy to follow. Nice sequencing of exercises. Beautiful location. Nice supporting music that's not too intrusive. I highly recommend this dvd!"