Ep 6. Qigong Flow - Eight Brocades

Qigong Basics & Qigong Flow Set with Mimi Kuo-Deemer is a show on GaiamTV that focuses on the physical and mental health benefits of qi gong, a Chinese practice involving gentle movements and meditation. In season 1 episode 6, titled "Qigong Flow - Eight Brocades," Mimi leads viewers through a practice known as the Eight Brocades, a set of eight movements designed to improve circulation, balance, and overall wellbeing.

The episode begins with Mimi introducing the concept of the Eight Brocades and explaining its history and origins. She emphasizes the importance of proper breathing and alignment throughout the practice, and encourages viewers to listen to their bodies and move at their own pace. Mimi guides viewers through each movement in detail, providing clear instructions and demonstrating proper form.

The first movement is called "Two Hands Hold Up the Heavens," and involves reaching the arms up to the sky and then slowly lowering them down to the sides of the body. Mimi encourages viewers to visualize the movement as a way of connecting with the energy of the universe and bringing it into the body.

The second movement, "Drawing the Bow," involves taking a wide stance and bending the knees slightly. One arm is extended forward, as if holding a bow, while the other arm is pulled back, as if drawing an arrow. Mimi emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and stability throughout the movement.

The third movement, "Separating Heaven and Earth," involves reaching the arms out to the sides and then bending over, reaching the fingers towards the ground. Mimi encourages viewers to focus on the stretch in the back of the legs and to breathe deeply.

The fourth movement, "Wise Owl Gazes Backward," involves turning the head to the right and left, as if looking behind oneself. Mimi emphasizes the importance of keeping the neck and shoulders relaxed.

The fifth movement, "Swaying the Head and Tail," involves gently rocking the body back and forth, as if swaying like a snake. Mimi encourages viewers to imagine the movement as a way of releasing tension and relaxing the entire spine.

The sixth movement, "Moving the Qi," involves placing one hand on the lower abdomen and the other hand on the lower back. The arms are then moved up and down in a gentle rhythmic motion, as if stirring a pot of soup. Mimi encourages viewers to focus on the movement of qi, or energy, in the body.

The seventh movement, "Punching with Angry Eyes," involves standing with feet shoulder-width apart and alternating punching movements with both arms. Mimi encourages viewers to focus on the power and strength of the movement, while also remaining relaxed and centered.

The final movement, "Bouncing on the Toes," involves bouncing up and down on the balls of the feet, with the arms held loosely at the sides. Mimi emphasizes the importance of maintaining a soft and relaxed posture throughout the movement.

Overall, "Qigong Flow - Eight Brocades" is a calming and energizing practice that focuses on improving circulation, balance, and overall wellbeing. Mimi's clear and detailed guidance makes it accessible to beginners, while also providing a challenge for more advanced practitioners.