Ch'i the Power Within

Recommended for anyone who desires to improve their life both physically and spiritually.

As a professional management consultant I have been using this manual for six years. The book contains clear descriptions of all the exercises with photographic illustrations that guide the reader step by step. I personally appreciated the background information that put all the exercises into a life-style context. The marvel of the book is that it does not require any expensive equipment or coaching but rather encourage patience and endurance. The proposed exercises act as a tonic that energises and revitalises the whole body. Anybody from any age group can use Pa Tuan T'sin in their health program. I still experience a surge in vibrancy, agility and mental sharpness as a result from these exercises. As a complete manual expressed with clarity it is sufficient for general health improvement. The serious practitioner will however find that the book does not cover the total depth of the topic and will ultimately augment this book with additional sources of information.

I bought this book just 3 weeks ago and started practising the pa tuan tsin (eight pieces of brocade) exercise 4 days after. My breathing capacity is gently increasing but the onset of winter will test my sinuses. Lets's hope the recommended PATIENCE, DISCIPLINE, FORTITUDE will hold fast through the cold months.The book is very interesting and makes for engaging reading. Geoff Pike is also very understanding and through stories and common sense, he raises the enthusiasm. His background story may be useful in suggesting a primary audience. Geoff Pike relates briefly how he came to change his lifestyle at middle age due to the onset of physical exhaustion and uneasiness at his condition. The exercises are primary used to regain energy and vitality through the middle age lull and maintain liveliness into old age.At first, I thought I had bought the wrong book, but anyone feeling older than they are could benefit (I am 21 but occasionally feel like a mummified carcass). In summary; I know I probably should have waited another month before writing a review but I enjoyed the book so much that I wanted to share my thoughts. I am also interested in getting other variations on the pa tuan tsin sets which I now try to use daily. Good luck then.

I first purchased this book five years ago. I have been studying Tai Chi Chuan for that time as well. I have exmined several forms of the famous Eight Pieces of Brocade researching back to some of the early documents. I find this system taught by Pike to be most beneficial to students wanting a basic system of Chinese Chi Kung health exercises. His explanation of the importance of proper breathing, walking as an activity, and the Pa Tuan Tsin, are precious in and of themselves. His discussion of his background and how he came to learn these exercises is both entertaining and educational. I enjoyed the book very much. I use this version of the Eight Pieces regularly. I have given this book as a gift to my closest friends.

I recommend Geoff Pike's book to recovering heroin addicts and anyone seeking to build inner strength and resolve, as part of my work in the field of treating drug addiction.I know of no simpler or more practical guide for the Western reader. Qi Gong is to Tai Chi Chuan what press-ups are to ballet. It's crude and simple but VERY effective when it comes to helping you develop the strength to make positive changes in your life.