Curriculum

Qigong

Progression from foundational breathing and movement practices through advanced Qigong sets, organized by level. Select any level to explore.

Qigong · Level 5

Level 5

Candidates who successfully complete all requirements are qualified as YMAA Qigong Master.

5 topics
Level 5 — Topics

Advanced Theory

The study and practice of advanced qigong theory requires time and patience for both reading and practice of the Yì Jīn Jīng (易筋經 Muscle/Tendon Changing classic) exercises, paired and balanced with more internal work, known as the Xǐ Suǐ Jīng (洗髓經 Brain / Marrow Washing classic). The Tang Dynasty Qigong Meditation Chart, an ancient Buddhist and Daoist diagram, aka “Chart of the Inner Landscape” from 618–907 AD is studied extensively.

References:

  • Tang Dynasty Internal Alchemy Chart video (2027)
  • External and Internal Elixir video

Test Format:

  • Written or oral test for Tang Dynasty and Elixir history/theory
Qigong · Level 5

Grand Circulation - 2

Advanced Breathing Techniques and Paths – Level 2


Continued practice of Grand Circulation Qìgōng, the pinnacle of internal arts practice, leading you through intermediate and advanced stages of training, using traditional Qìgōng breathing and exercises, filtered through the lens of the latest science. This Qìgōng method combines practical techniques from Muscle / Tendon Changing (易筋經) and Brain / Marrow Washing (洗髓經) that you may practice to improve your health and longevity.

  • Belt Vessel Breathing
  • Turtle Shell Breathing
  • Joint Breathing
  • Skin/Marrow Breathing
  • Internal Organ Breathing

Grand Circulation – Level 2

  • 12 Meridian Grand Circulation
  • Martial Grand Circulation
  • Dual Circulation
  • Qi Exchange with Nature
  • Buddhahood Grand Circulation
  • Two Poles Meditation
  • Heaven and Earth Meditation

References:

  • Qìgōng Grand Circulation Qìgōng book
  • Qìgōng Grand Circulation Qìgōng video

Test Format:

  • Written or oral test for Grand Circulation Qìgōng theory
  • Clear discussion of partner training theory and history (Daoist / Buddhist)
  • Leading a session test for Grand Circulation and its breathing techniques
Qigong · Level 5

Five Animal Sports Qigong - 2

The Five Animal Sports Qìgōng (五禽戲, Wǔ Qín Xì,) is considered the root of Medical Qìgōng and was created by TCM doctor Huá Tuó (華陀) during the East Han and Three Kingdom period (Dōnghàn, Sānguó,  東漢﹐ 三國) (25-420 A.D.).

  • This series of vigorous exercises imitates the natural movements of five animals: Tiger, Deer, Bear, Ape, and Bird.
  • For 2,000 years, this classic set has proven very effective for maintaining health and for healing various illnesses.

References:

  • Five Animal Sports Qìgōng video

Test Format:

  • Written or oral test for Five Animal Sports Qìgōng movements
  • Performing test for Five Animal Sports Qìgōng movements
Qigong · Level 5

Self-Healing: Common Ailments - 4

Dr. Yang’s personal practice of  Qìgōng movements, and acupressure (traditional Tuīná and Diǎnxué) techniques to relieve energy stagnation and rejuvenate the entire body. Exercises are practiced standing, lying down , and/or sitting and can help to heal and prevent injuries and illness.

References:

  • Qìgōng for Health: Sitting Exercises video
  • Qìgōng for Health: Immune System video
  • Qìgōng for Health and Resilience video

Test Format:

  • Performing Test for Healing Qìgōng
  • Requirement: Leading Weekly Classes
Qigong · Level 5

Advanced Qigong

This advanced physical training will improve your health and strength, by practicing the Yì Jīn Jīng (Muscle/Tendon Changing classic 易筋經) exercises. It must be paired and balanced with more internal work, known as the Xǐ Suǐ Jīng (Brain / Marrow Washing classic 洗髓經).

  • Advanced Qì Cultivation
  • Palm, Fist, Coiling Set
  • Biography of Bodhidharma and theory of practice

References:

  • Qìgōng  – The Secret of Youth book
  • Muscle / Tendon & Brain / Marrow Washing Qìgōng video (2027)

Test Format:

  • Written or oral test for Muscle/Tendon Changing & Brain / Marrow Washing Qìgōng video history and theory
  • Performing test for Muscle/Tendon Changing Qìgōng
  • Teaching advanced theory observed by mentor

Final thesis assignment for highest certification, ie. Writing a series of (5+) articles or a book / video on a Qigong topic of the applicant’s choice.

Commitment of years teaching required for Master certification, as defined by the Qigong Committee

Qigong · Level 5
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