8 Pieces of Brocade

• Tuesdays at 9am, beginning June 28, 2024
• In person and online
• Instructor Bill Buckley; Assistant Instructor:  Rebecca Gould
• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels

Taught in combination with Taiji Ball Qigong

The practice of Qigong (Chinese energy work) includes many "sets" of exercises developed over many centuries. The 8 Pieces of Brocade is one of the oldest and most widely practiced sets.  The first 30 minutes of this class will focus on the standing movements in the 8 Pieces of Brocade.  The second half of the class will be devoted to Taiji Ball Qigong, a foundational practice for anyone learning and practicing Taiji.

The 8 Pieces of Brocade involves breathing techniques and simple movements that exercise the body and bring focus to key energy centers. The exercises are deeply rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, emphasizing the regulation of Qi (life energy) through the body's meridians to improve physical and mental health.

Research and practice have highlighted several health benefits of Qigong.  Regular practice can enhance cardiovascular health, improve respiratory function, and strengthen muscles and joints. The gentle, flowing movements of the exercises help improve flexibility, balance, and coordination; reduce stress; enhance mental clarity; and promote relaxation by balancing the body's energy systems.

Historical Roots

The 8 Pieces of Brocade set is over 1000 years old. It is part of the medical canon of Qigong, created by Marshal Yeuh Fei for his troops in China during the Sung Dynasty, 1127-1279 AD. While not a doctor, the Marshal knew that his troop’s health was paramount in holding off the Mongolian invaders. In fact, during Yeuh Fei’s time, while the Mongolians conquered much of the world, they left the south of China and the Sung dynasty alone because they found the weather and illness not worth the fight! Marshal Yeuh Fei attributed much of the health of his troops to the daily regimen of the “8 Pieces.”