Nourishing Life Classes @ Felek Acupuncture Clinic in Albany, CA

Aug-11, Sep-11, Oct-9, Nov-8, Dec-7. Class from 7-8pm. Register for the Nourishing Life class here.

Longevity and Mindfulness: Techniques from the Nourishing-Life Tradition

‘A superior physician treats a patient before he is sick’ – Yellow Emperor.

The Nourishing-Life tradition is a little known but central aspect of Chinese medicine called Yang sheng. It fosters health by nurturing body, mind and spirit. About prevention rather than cure, this approach to wellness addresses small health problems at root level to limit the chance of illness getting a foothold in the body. The practices in this tradition develop a conscious approach towards oneself, a mechanism of self-support.

Longevity techniques encompass the methods to develop and maintain physical function. These include breathing techniques to optimize mechanical ventilation, enabling the lungs to receive abundant air for respiration and giving the spine and vital organs a massage with the pumping action of each breath. Longevity techniques include any and all stretching and muscle toning exercises. Massage therapy is also included, as skilled hands can augment and enhance the other longevity related work. Beyond making the physical body healthy and strong, longevity techniques may improve quality of life by reducing aches and pains. By reducing the gross physical static which distracts the mind, a healthy physical body provides the foundation and support for the ability to develop awareness of subtle sensation.

Mindfulness techniques develop continuity of awareness. Very often, practitioners begin by observation of the breath as it enters and exits the body through the nose. Incoming breath is cool, outgoing breath is relatively warmer, and no two breaths are ever the same, presenting an ideal opportunity to develop consciousness of the now-moment. Other techniques include scanning the body for sensations, then relaxing into any found sensation until its energy naturally unwinds, dissolves and reintegrates. The eyes are considered “windows to the spirit” that look out, as well as in. Tension in the eyes changes the way one sees the world as well as the way one is seen by the world. Eye methods include softening the gaze while retaining visual focus and creating neutrality that neither bulges out or draws in. Mindfulness techniques guide one on a path towards emotional maturity, and diligent practice may lead to a profound sense of inner stillness and peace.

This Nourishing Life class is suited for all ages and fitness levels. Be aware that the mindfulness techniques are generally healthy and helpful for anyone, but not specifically appropriate for everyone. Individuals self-aware of having a mental ailment are better served by a therapist or psychologist.

Aug-11, Sep-11, Oct-9, Nov-8, Dec-7. Class from 7-8pm. Register for the Nourishing Life class here.