The Root of Chinese Qigong 2nd. Ed.: Secrets of Health, Longevity, & Enlightenment

One of the top-five Qigong books on the market. This may well be the most important book available, the one to use as the reference by which to judge the others. It's prosaic and straightforward, not flowery, not air-headed, not egotistical, not anything but pure Qigong history and theory. Dr. Yang Jwing-Ming is a real treasure, an example for all of us to enjoy. There are no real "excercises" described in this book, but the descriptions of the breathing techniques alone will enhance the reader's practice immeasurably. I teach things somewhat differently, but this book definitely enhanced the quality of my own instruction. Dr. Yang could have saved the space devoted to the Meridians and TCM, both themes are covered in just about every average-quality Qigong book available. I would love to give such rave reviews to his other Qigong books, but unfortunately, they don't live up to the standard set by this one. The best companion to this book, in my experience, in Roger Jahnke's "The Healing Promise of Qi".

One of the best books on Qigong theory I've found and I've read many. While I would not call it a beginner book it is clear & to the point.

If you practice chi kung and are interested in the finer points of regulation, buy this book. Although it may seem heavy and overly academic on first reading, the text directy hits most of the vital points required for understanding -- and thus fine-tuning -- chi development. An incredibly informative text that _does_ reveal secrets for those who are beginning to sense what their practice is doing.

I have just read 1/3 of the book and am very excited by the way the author explains the history of qigong and the theroy of tcm. When learning Shiatsu and qigong some years ago, none of the teachers I came across had 10% of the knowledge and experience of the author, hence I gave up shiatsu and qigong, until I came across 'the root of Chinese qigong' it has inspired me to resume learning and studying qigong, knowing that there are practioners who know and able to pass on the knowledge of qigong.

I'm always surprised at the number of qigong students who have never heard of the principles of "regulating" (tiao in Chinese). I'm also surprised at the number of qigong teachers who never even mention the topic! It is a fundamental concept of the art.This book fills in that gap. It is a detailed and well-researched textbook of Qigong theory that I recommend to serious students and teachers of qigong, taijiquan (tai chi chuan), and internal martial arts. I use this book constantly in my teaching of qigong and taiji and in my writing on those subjects.Yes, the book is more suitable for the experienced student, and may be tough going for a beginner. If you are already studying or teaching qigong, however, I highly recommend taking the time to study this book.