The Tai Chi Healthways Discussion Board

I have a question regarding Jesse's Yi jin jing dvd. Does Jesse pesent the acupuncture information for each of the movements presented as he does on the ba daun jin movements dvd? Should there be any concern about persons with high blood pressure on the bending over exercises OR for older persons not quite able to reach that far? Do you just bend as far as you can comfortably bend, etc., to avoid injury -- It is my understanding that the movements were originally designed for that are not very flexible and are to release and stretch the tendons as the exericses were designed but just wondered about any cautions as you instruct students? such as "In the beginning, bend only as far as is comfortable as you will strengthen muscles and tendons to become more flexible as you practice" Thanks Vic

I will add another question.

"In the beginning, bend only as far as is comfortable as you will strengthen muscles and tendons to become more flexible as you practice"

Isn't it the basic principle for every type of qigong, except maybe for "hard" qigong

For somebody with high blood pressure, avoid dipping the head when you are bending forward. Always look a few feet in front of you so you keep your head up a bit. This will avoid the dizziness. It seems paradoxal, but it is not: bending as far as you can comfortably is the best thing to do for developing flexibility. Otherwise, muscles tense up to protect your body, and you achieve the opposite effect: an automatic tensed reaction to avoid bending too far, therefore limiting your range even more. Pain is no gain.

Thanks for reply Alain. I have always taught my students 70% rule (bend, flex, etc., 70% of what you can without causing pain or injury) as I am firm believer of you maxim "Pain = No Gain. I was mostly curious about Jesse's lecture and how he presented the information regardiing actual performance. He did such a grand job in the 8 Brocades dvd of explaining qi flow and meridians that I imagined he would do as well in the Yi Jin Jing dvd but just trying to understand a little more than he presents on his trailer. Yes Maria, I believe you to be correct -- only bend, flex as far is comfortable for ALL taiji and qigong so thanks for your input as well. Vic