Over the past few weeks, I have been immersing myself in Shibashi Set 2, dedicating time each day to its practice. My motivation has been twofold: a personal exploration of this beautiful qigong form and a desire to deepen my understanding as I guide students through it in their own practice. What I’ve discovered has been both surprising and deeply rewarding.
Shibashi Set 2 initially felt less intuitive than Set 1. The movements, while graceful, didn’t flow as naturally for me at first. However, with consistent practice, something shifted. The flow began to emerge, and I noticed how my body responded. Shibashi Set 2 has become my favourite practice, and I find myself looking forward to it each day.
One of the most striking aspects of Shibashi Set 2 is how it activates and moves qi in the lower half of the body. As I practiced, I began to feel the energy rising from the Yangquan Point, also known as the Bubbling Spring. This point, located on the soles of the feet, is the first point of the Kidney meridian and is considered the body’s connection to the earth. In traditional Chinese medicine, the Yangquan point plays a vital role in grounding and drawing energy from the earth, nourishing the body, and replenishing its vital energy.
For the first time in my practice, I felt the distinct sensation of energy rising through the Yangquan point, traveling up through my legs, and collecting in my lower Dantian. The lower Dantian, located just below the navel, is often referred to as the body’s energy center. Feeling this connection, this upward flow of energy from the earth into my body has been a profound and grounding experience.
What I also love about Shibashi Set 2 is its impact on the legs. The gentle yet deliberate movements encourage the legs to move more than in Set 1. This is particularly beneficial for older adults, as our legs naturally weaken and lose muscle mass as we age. Engaging the legs in this way helps to build strength, improve balance, and promote better circulation. Studies have shown that maintaining leg strength is crucial for healthy aging, as it supports mobility, stability, and overall vitality. Shibashi Set 2 provides a gentle yet effective way to address these challenges.
Through this practice, I have come to appreciate the way Shibashi Set 2 integrates physical movement with the flow of qi. It is a powerful reminder that qigong is not only about energy but also about the body’s physical well-being. As my movements became smoother, the connection between my breath, body, and qi deepened, and I felt my whole body working together in harmony.
Shibashi Set 2 is a beautiful practice that has opened new doors for me in my understanding of qigong. It offers so much for practitioners of all levels, especially older adults who want to stay active and connected to their energy. The combination of movement, breath, and intention makes it a practice that benefits both body and mind.
As I continue to practice and share Shibashi Set 2 with my students, I am reminded of the simple yet profound power of qigong. It is a practice that meets you where you are and offers endless opportunities for growth and discovery. Shibashi Set 2 has become a cherished part of my routine, and I look forward to continuing this journey with others who are eager to explore its beauty and benefits.
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