Zhan Zhuang exercises

I thought I'd just mention the Zhan Zhuang exercises both classes have been introduced to this week.

The handouts you received on this set of exercises cover not just what you have done this week but a number of additional exercises that will be introduced over the coming weeks. I'd like those of you who are inclined to practice yourselves to avoid the temptation to 'work ahead'. Please stick to the training schedule included in the handouts as this has been compiled to bring maximum benefit from the sequence.

The key to this form of exercise is relaxation; whilst is is true that the exercises will help you to relax, they confer greater benefit if you are relaxed to begin with. One area that many of us find difficult to relax is in the shoulders. When carrying out the 'lifting' exercise from the Building you Chi set, if you feel that your shoulders are starting to lift, take a deep in-breath then, as you release it, let your shoulders sink. Do this as many times as necessary to get your shoulders down and do it again if you feel them start to rise again. Another cause for tension in the shoulders in the Building your Chi set is trying to do the exercises with your elbows too far back; they should be forward of your body's midline.

So, have you done you Zhan Zhuang exercises today?

--
Stuart