Power of Ch'i: Secrets for Oriental Breathing for Health and Longevity

For most of us, breathing is an effortless, automatic process that we take for granted. The premise of Chi, however, is that our general health and physical well-being are directly linked to our capacity to breathe properly. The “ability to control the process of breathing, to distribute oxygen to all parts of the body, to concentrate and release this power supply at will, is what the Chinese Masters call Chi.” Chi is an ancient practice developed with great patience over the centuries. The author relates how he discovered Chi and how it affected his life. After practicing Chi through a period of physical sickness, pain, and emotional distress, Mr. Pike became fit and healthy and attained a new outlook and renewed vitality. The author gives you some simple tests to determine what physical and emotional condition you are In. Along with his fascinating personal story, Mr. Pike gives a history of Chi and tells what is involved in its practice. A chapter of preparation for the exercises themselves shows you the correct stances and how to warm up. The Eight Precious Sets of Exercises (Pa Tuan Tsin) are clearly described and illustrated. One does not have to be a gymnast to execute them. They consist of squatting, stretching, rotating limbs, bending, and pressing while simultaneously deeply inhaling and exhaling. They can be practiced for a short period of time each day, in place of, or as well as, any exercise routine you now have. Mr. Pike’s story and his clear, simple instructions will Inspire you to “start breathing for your life and love.”