The Spine - Pillar of Heaven

脊椎‐天柱‐

Tao Foundation practice is very unique - in the way the Taoist Movements and exercises are designed to open up the spine, and joints in the body. The spine is a very important and unique structure in the human body - the Taoists refer to the Spine as the Pillar of Heaven. There are many nerves which reach out from the spine and literally connect to every organ in the body - when the spine is open - it benefits all aspects of health. We can also understand the spine itself is like a conductor of life energy - this life energy is conducted through what is called - cerebrospinal fluid - the movements we learn in Tao Foundation Training literally open the spine, and move it like a pump - allowing the smooth movement of cerebrospinal fluid which nourishes the brain, tissues and cells - and also conducts energy smoothly through the spine - bringing enhanced health and healing.

 Open the Energy Gates

氣門（エネルギーゲート）の開通

In Taoist Practice we are taught one aspect of the Energy Body which are termed the 'Energy Gates'. The Energy Gates are the places where meridians connect in the body, and move from one area to another - for example for energy to pass from the arm into the torso, the meridians must pass through the Energy Gate located in the Shoulder Joint. Energy Gates are usually located in the major joint spaces - or more specifically in the 'Empty Space' between the bones of a joint. The Energy Gates often become blocked, and this causes stagnant energy, and limits the movent of Energy through the Meridian system. Tao Foundation training uses specialised movement to physically open these areas so that the Energy may run smoothly through the whole system. Opening the Energy Gates is a very special aspect of Tao Foundation Training - and the Golden Lotus and 8 Immortal Forms are used to Open the Energy Gates.

When our Energy can run smoothly - with no blockage in the Energy Gates - we gain vital health, healing, have more energy, feel young & full of natural joy.

Tao Foundation program

Tao Foundation program is a wonderful and detailed journey into the authentic way of Taoist Practice. Learning begins with 3 Foundation forms - Golden Lotus / 8 Immortal / Iron Turtle. The Golden Lotus form is a comprehensive seated form which works to open the meridian system and transform the fascia and tendon network. Golden Lotus is amazing in its design, and brings one to a great state of health and inner peace. One special benefit of the Golden Lotus practice is the effect on the hormone systems and the metabolism - the practice balances the hormone system and brings one back to a youthful, refreshed and balanced state.

Some sections of our Golden Lotus form are demonstrated below by our Certified Teacher Ayumi Sensei of TaoYoga Hokkaido - the complete form takes about 75 min to perform - and these are just the few sections - one unique aspect of Taoist Yoga is the use of the principle of Yin Yang - Stillness & Motion - Up & Down Movement - Meditation & Activity - by following these principles of Yin Yang in their practice - the Taoists create a harmony of the Ki Energy, experience healing and preserve health - 

returning one to a state of Youth.  

Iron Turtle Form - a rare practice

Iron Turtle Form is a wonderful and rare practice from the Immortal Mountain Tradition - in Chinese this is often classified as an Ancient TaoYin.  The Iron Turtle practice is very unique in the focus on opening the spinal cord, and creating increased flexibility.  The exercises nourish the energy in the Dantian Center, and deeply open the energy meridians which connect to the kidney - thus bringing more energy to nourish the kidney - which results in greater health, longevity and rejuvenation.  

When students view the Iron Turtle practice they often compare it to a form of 'Taoist Pilates'.  It truly is an amazing practice which has a wonderful rejuvenating effect.