2020/09/29

Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change - Kindle edition by Mitchell, Damo, Engel, Cindy. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change - Kindle edition by Mitchell, Damo, Engel, Cindy. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.



Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change Kindle Edition

by Damo Mitchell  (Author), Cindy Engel (Foreword)  Format: Kindle Edition

4.6 out of 5 stars    120 ratings

Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change by [Damo Mitchell, Cindy Engel]



Nei Gong has been a well-kept secret within the Daoist sects of China for centuries. Based upon the original teachings of the great sage Laozi, it has only ever been taught to close students of the masters chosen as the heads of the ancient orders.



This book provides a breakdown of the entire Nei Gong process, and explains in plain English the philosophy which underpins Nei Gong practice, and which is based on the original teachings of the ancient Daoist priests.

 The methodology of Sung breathing, an advanced meditative practice which has until now been reserved for 'inner-door' students is described, and the book contains an entire set of Qigong exercises accompanied by instructional photographs and drawings.



This book will be of interest to all practitioners of Qi Gong, martial arts and meditation, and will be a rewarding read for anyone interested in Eastern philosophy.



Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Damo Mitchell has studied the martial, medical and spiritual arts of Asia since the age of four. His studies have taken him across the planet in search of authentic masters. He is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong School of Daoist Arts, and teaches Nei Gong in the UK and Sweden. --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



Review

'The author suggests that the "Dao is accessible by everyone in one way or another. The form it takes only depends upon how much you are willing to put in." As with any worthwhile goal in life, it takes patience, diligent practice, good teaching and persistence to get the maximum benefits. So it is with Nei Gong. This book will give the reader enough insights to persue the study of Nei Gong further. 



The practices of Sung breathing and the Ji Ben Qigong set are bound to be of value to all who read this book. -- Yang-Sheng Online Journal 



This book drills down into the golden core of the ancient Chinese art and science of internal self-cultivation known as "Chi Gung" or "energy work", and after reading it, you'll understand why Chi Gung is the best way on earth to protect your health, prolong your life, and clarify your awareness of both aspects of the "Three Treasures" of life - mortal body, breath, and mind; and immortal essence, energy, and spirit. Known simply as "Nei Gung", or "internal work", this inner alchemy may be learned and practiced by anyone



Written by a dedicated practitioner who verifies scholarly research with personal experience and illustrates ancient theory with contemporary practice, this book provides the Western mind with a clear-cut introduction to Chi Gung that informs as well as inspires the reader to practice. -- Daniel Reid 



This is one of the best if not the best book on Daoist internal arts that I've ever read... Many books give practices but you don't understand the principles and reasons for doing them. This book is written so that you can understand the principles behind the practices. It is soundly based on the simple teachings of Lao Tze... I would recommend anyone interested in qigong and nei gong to get this book. -- Qigong Healing.co.uk 



--This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



From the Author

Damo Mitchell has studied the martial, medical and spiritual arts of Asia since the age of four. His studies have taken him across the planet in search of authentic masters. He is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong School of Daoist Arts, and teaches Nei Gong in the UK and Sweden. --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



Review

'The author suggests that the "Dao is accessible by everyone in one way or another. The form it takes only depends upon how much you are willing to put in." As with any worthwhile goal in life, it takes patience, diligent practice, good teaching and persistence to get the maximum benefits. So it is with Nei Gong. This book will give the reader enough insights to persue the study of Nei Gong further. The practices of Sung breathing and the Ji Ben Qigong set are bound to be of value to all who read this book. (Yang-Sheng Online Journal)



This book drills down into the golden core of the ancient Chinese art and science of internal self-cultivation known as "Chi Gung" or "energy work", and after reading it, you'll understand why Chi Gung is the best way on earth to protect your health, prolong your life, and clarify your awareness of both aspects of the "Three Treasures" of life - mortal body, breath, and mind; and immortal essence, energy, and spirit. Known simply as "Nei Gung", or "internal work", this inner alchemy may be learned and practiced by anyone. Written by a dedicated practitioner who verifies scholarly research with personal experience and illustrates ancient theory with contemporary practice, this book provides the Western mind with a clear-cut introduction to Chi Gung that informs as well as inspires the reader to practice. (Daniel Reid)



This is one of the best if not the best book on Daoist internal arts that I've ever read... Many books give practices but you don't understand the principles and reasons for doing them. This book is written so that you can understand the principles behind the practices. It is soundly based on the simple teachings of Lao Tze... I would recommend anyone interested in qigong and nei gong to get this book. (Qigong Healing.co.uk) --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



Book Description

The entire Nei Gong process in a clear and readable form --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.

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Product details

File Size : 3774 KB

ASIN : B00E3F13TU

Publication Date : August 15, 2011

Print Length : 242 pages



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Damo Mitchell

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Biography

Damo Mitchell began his training in the Eastern arts in 1984 and has spent his entire life studying the martial, medical and spiritual teachings of China, India and South-East Asia. His travels have taken him high into the mountains of the Far East as well as through jungles, into temple complexes and on searches for masters through the smoggy cities of China, Thailand and Malaysia. His time is spent between Europe, America and Asia where he continues to travel and study as well as teach and write books on Daoism and the internal arts.



Damo is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong International School of Internal Arts as well as the head of the Xian Tian College of Chinese Medicine. He can be found through his main website which is: http://www.lotusneigong.com

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4.6 out of 5 stars



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nei gong damo mitchell martial arts internal arts internal martial tai chi western reader awesome book recommend this book gong practice good book excellent book book is well great book teacher qigong taoist clearly theory topic

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Top reviews from the United States

Taiji on Maui

4.0 out of 5 stars Finally, a simple Way that can be followed

Reviewed in the United States on August 29, 2017

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Very good work. This is the book I would have written if I had thought about it. Damo very much demystifies Nei Gong so that it can be approached in a simple matter. I teach Nei Gong and have recommended this book to all of my students. I have learned to decipher all the "code "words used by the old masters. it is very difficult to read all the old classics and do that, so this book helps. At first I didn't like the book because maybe I was jealous! I have to give the author a lot of credit. This is the only book I have found ( I have a HUGE library of Tao books) that can help a lay person get a grip on one of the most complex of all the Taoist arts.

9 people found this helpful

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Erehwon

5.0 out of 5 stars Real information clearly presented

Reviewed in the United States on November 14, 2014

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Most books on the Chinese internal arts are either very simplistic works for absolute beginners or are written in an abstract and obscure style. Practical information of a higher level that is presented clearly is extraordinarily difficult to find in print. Those who don't have practical knowledge write in the most obscure fashion possible to disguise their lack of practical knowledge. Those who possess practical knowledge seem to fear revealing their secrets--though they do want you to spend money on their books. 



Damo Mitchell possesses real knowledge and has the gift of expressing difficult concepts clearly and in a manner that is accessible to the Western reader. Of course, no book on Nei Gong is a substitute for personal instruction. But, for those who already have a base of knowledge, this volume will be an invaluable asset to their development.

12 people found this helpful

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C. Thompson

5.0 out of 5 stars Good Stuff

Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2020

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a good book. if you know what to look for your find it in this book, related to nei gong.

in the meantime keep kicking the trees and scratching your balls while I'm behind them laughing at your punk ass...lol

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Brandon Pearce

5.0 out of 5 stars Thorough and clear

Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2019

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Having studied taiji and qigong for several years, this book clarified my understanding of the processes of internal change that can result from a serious practice beyond just the dynamic forms.

One person found this helpful

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Mathieu Goodwin

5.0 out of 5 stars Both intelligent and practical.

Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2014

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I have been involved in the internal and martial arts for the greater portion of my entire life. This book is absolutely one of the most valuable books I have ever read on the topic of Taoist practice. It is clear, concise, usable and reasonable.



Damo speaks from a place of authority not derived out of static and ossified traditions but out of a clear grasp and application of Taoist technology, philosophy and metaphysics.



I have begun integrating Nei Gong into my practices using the information in the book and am very pleased with the early results.

8 people found this helpful

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Leonard Foote

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2017

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I love his read, book was very good.

One person found this helpful

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B. T.

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2017

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I read it, and reread

2 people found this helpful

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Happy Gaby

5.0 out of 5 stars Damo is an advanced teacher displaying great compassion and sincerity

Reviewed in the United States on December 31, 2016

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I appreciate this book for its clear content, it helps one understand some internal changes happening during Nei Gong practice and it includes the cautions on needs to take while practicing. Damo is an advanced teacher displaying great compassion and sincerity, he truly wants to help others advance faster and expand their awareness. I do recommend this book for anyone sincere in their spiritual path. Thank you, Damo.

4 people found this helpful

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van hove fred

2.0 out of 5 stars not what I expected

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 15, 2020

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After reading the reviews from other readers, my expectations where probably to high, I was disappointed.

I hoped to find clear answers about what Nei gong is, and how to develop. I hoped to find a well researched work on Nei gong. this book is neither? There are no footnotes, never tells the writer where he learned or received his information, who where his teachers or in what lineage to they practice what he says. There are only a few references at the end of the book. We have to take his word that things are what they are because he says so.

I never met the writer, maybe he is as developed and good as he implies in his writhing. There are much better books out there for people who want to develop themself.



Sorry, not my cup of tea.

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paul godfrey

5.0 out of 5 stars nei gong

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 19, 2020

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useful book to do more research on the variations of daoist nei gong

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PATRICK REES

5.0 out of 5 stars Should be in everybody's book case.

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 1, 2019

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Had me engaged from the beginning...... still reading it. Undoubtedly, useful and interesting.

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Marco

5.0 out of 5 stars Please buy

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 1, 2018

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You must buy this book! Changed my life. Thank you Damo!!! A must have any one practicing and spiritual acts. It flows perfectly with all of them. Marcus Borg

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Cherry

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 8, 2017

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just love everything Damo writes. deep sound knowledge.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Daoist Nei Gong by Damo Mitchell

 


A Comprehensive Guide to Daoist Nei Gong by [Damo Mitchell]

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A Comprehensive Guide to Daoist Nei Gong 
Kindle Edition
by Damo Mitchell (Author) Format: Kindle Edition


4.8 out of 5 stars 73 ratings


A complete and detailed explanation of the Nei Gong process. Explaining the philosophy at the core of Daoist Nei Gong, and illustrated with detailed figures throughout, this fascinating text will be of interest to practitioners of Qi Gong, martial arts and practitioners, and to anyone interested in Eastern philosophy.

Editorial Reviews

Review

I urge anyone interested in the internal arts to read this book. You won't get standard regurgitated descriptions of Qi or Qi gong. Nor will you get exotic tales of secret rituals in dark caverns. What you will get is a truly comprehensive sharing of profound information in an accessible format. Damo has not only dedicated his life to cultivating 'gong' but also to understanding the processes involved (somatically and intellectually) so that others can benefit. -- Dr Cindy Engel, Associate Lecturer, The Open University, U.K


I really don't know of anyone else who has written about the nei gong process in the depth and detail in which Damo has. He clearly writes from a depth of experience in the nei gong tradition. He has a unique ability to explain nei gong in a clear and logical way that anyone can understand if prepared to make the effort. The diagrams in the books are especially helpful in making concepts clear. -- Kenneth Morgan, Medical Qigong Education Centre --This text refers to the paperback edition.

About the Author

Damo Mitchell has studied the martial, medical and spiritual arts of Asia since the age of four. His studies have taken him across the planet in search of authentic masters. He is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong School of Daoist Arts, and teaches Nei Gong in the UK, Sweden and the USA. --This text refers to the paperback edition.

Book Description

A comprehensive explanation of the philosophy and process of Nei Gong, the Daoist path to transformation --This text refers to the paperback edition.

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Product details

File Size : 9810 KB

Publisher : Singing Dragon (August 21, 2018)

Publication Date : August 21, 2018

Print Length : 570 pages

Word Wise : Enabled

Language: : English

ASIN : B07GNLWWTJ

Enhanced Typesetting : Enabled

Text-to-Speech : Not enabled

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Customer Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars    73 ratings

Damo Mitchell

Biography

Damo Mitchell began his training in the Eastern arts in 1984 and has spent his entire life studying the martial, medical and spiritual teachings of China, India and South-East Asia. His travels have taken him high into the mountains of the Far East as well as through jungles, into temple complexes and on searches for masters through the smoggy cities of China, Thailand and Malaysia. His time is spent between Europe, America and Asia where he continues to travel and study as well as teach and write books on Daoism and the internal arts.


Damo is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong International School of Internal Arts as well as the head of the Xian Tian College of Chinese Medicine. He can be found through his main website which is: http://www.lotusneigong.com

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Customer reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars

4.8 out of 5


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Top reviews from the United States

Jbuyer

5.0 out of 5 stars Clear, practical, sincere, and essential

Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2018

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I believe this to be the best practical guide to the internal arts written in the English language to date. What Damo Mitchell has accomplished here is to take complex and esoteric information and make it practical. A discerning reader will see that Damo covers many small (and important) details that other guides leave out. Those people lucky enough to encounter this book early in their practices will save themselves from many frustrating and potentially even dangerous mistakes. In addition, Damo writes in an accessible, conversational style, giving concrete, practical tools on a subject that often seems abstract and inaccessible. This book is a true gift to any practitioner of the internal arts, whether advanced or beginner.

13 people found this helpful

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TAMAR A.

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read!

Reviewed in the United States on August 27, 2018

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For those of you interested in qi gong/nei gong, this is the book for you. This Is hands down the most comprehensive book available on this topic! Damo Mitchell has put years of training, research, and study into one concise manual. If you are looking for an overarching study on nei gong , you will not be disappointed!

17 people found this helpful

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Russ McW.

5.0 out of 5 stars Truly a Comprehensive Guide

Reviewed in the United States on March 14, 2019

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This book delivers on its title--it is COMPREHENSIVE! It had everything I was looking for on the topic and more. The book is well-written in a way that the layperson can understand this complex subject. Damo Mitchell's writing style flows and it reads easily throughout the book, and the material is presented in a progressive order. It helped me because it explained several things that I had experienced in my own practice, as well as giving me new material that advanced my practice in ways for which I am grateful. Recommend!

8 people found this helpful

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Avi Nash

5.0 out of 5 stars Best Book on the topic

Reviewed in the United States on October 12, 2018

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Having read several books on Qigong and eastern energetic practices, I can honestly say that Damo's latest book on Neigong (the internal art of change) is hands down my favorite book on the topic. It’s certainly an extraordinary gift to the internal arts community, but an even greater boon to students in the Lotus Neigong community. To especially the latter, this is a book to be savored, and I cannot recommend it more highly. So very many questions are answered on topics that a student would be curious about, or should be curious about. Happy reading!

9 people found this helpful

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Joe Randall

5.0 out of 5 stars Damo Mitchell nails it with this book!

Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2018

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This is a truly excellent book on the subject of Nei Gong. Damo Mitchell has a depth and breadth of knowledge, based on many years of high quality experience in the Daoist Arts, that is profound. He makes an appropriate amount of that accessible to us in this book. If you have a practice, especially in Qi Gong/Nei Gong, this book will be a real boon to you. If not, it may help lead you to a valid instructor. At the least, it will give you an insight into why those of us with a practice do so.

8 people found this helpful

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Joseph

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books I have ever read

Reviewed in the United States on January 14, 2019

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This is an dense information rich guide into the mysterious and endlessly interesting world of Nei Gong. It is among very very few books that I have finished and immediately wanted to read again in order to digest all of the information at least once more. Top three most insightful books I have ready in my life! Two thumbs up!

7 people found this helpful

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Loi

5.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive book on Nei Gong

Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2019

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I went to Damo's seminar before. He's a great teacher and practices or more than his students. Must have for serious practitioners.

4 people found this helpful

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G

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent and comprehensive Guide

Reviewed in the United States on June 14, 2019

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Rarely you find books on this subject that are so clear and well written. I found that every page was a treasure of knowledge, I would highly recommend it to anyone who is in the qi-gong, nei-gong or any internal martial art. It is comprehensive of many details and shows the depth of the knowledge Mr. Mitchell acquired in his training. Excellent job!

One person found this helpful

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Anna

5.0 out of 5 stars A Comprehensive Guide to Daoist Nei Gong

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 28, 2018

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This book is exactly what the title says!

Most books about Qi Gong describe exercise sets. They may be somewhat useful and doing the exercises may bring some benefits. However, the benefits are probably comparable to what walking in nature or some similar light activity might bring (i.e. some health benefits, temporary relaxation etc.).

What this book describes is something completely different. Nei Gong can cause really big changes in a person, not just in the body and health but also in the personality, behavior etc. I have been practicing with Damo for four years and I have already changed in many ways. My health has improved and I can move much better. But more importantly, I feel so much more relaxed and free now, as my mind has been able to let go of many of the old thought patterns and unnecessary fears and fixations that it used to hold on to. And this is only the beginning of the Nei Gong process.

This is the best book about Nei Gong that I know of. It gives comprehensive overview of the Nei Gong process and additionally very detailed and practical instructions for the beginning stages of the practice. It is an honest description of the process, not making empty promises about quick or easy results. Progress in the Nei Gong process requires consistent practice. With the process Damo describes, the progress and benefits are real, but the required effort is very real too.

I think this book is very helpful especially for students of Lotus Nei Gong or any other teacher/school teaching similar system. Information in the book helps students to finetune the beginning stages of the practice (Wuji posture for example) and to remember to include all the aspects of the practice that should be there to make it work (there are so many details that it is easy to miss or forget something essential).

This book is also useful for anyone wanting to get an overview and general understanding about Nei Gong. I love the way Damo demystifies the subject and makes it easier to understand for someone with a contemporary western mind.

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7 people found this helpful

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L. J. Griffiths

5.0 out of 5 stars My favourite book

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 12, 2018

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If I could only have one book, this would be it! Despite it being a complicated subject Damo Mitchell makes neigong understandable and straight forward. Concepts are carefully explained with plentiful diagrams which is helpful when the reader has a visual memory. Thank goodness it's available in Kindle format too (I have both!) as the paperback is a weighty tome. I feel that in the years to come this will be THE standard reference work on the subject.

6 people found this helpful

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David Austin

5.0 out of 5 stars Essential reading for all Qi Gong practitioners.

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 21, 2019

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An incredible book that very clearly describes and explains many aspects of authentic internal cultivation that really are very hard to find normally. There are so many dead ends out there due to misunderstanding of classical texts or errors in other authors' practice (or worse yet, they don't actually cultivate and are writing from a purely academic stand point).


The author writes from an experiential point of view and in a very clear and accessible manner. Nothing is lost in translation!


If you are interested in self cultivation or are currently practising Qi Gong/Nei Gong or even Taiji, then this book is essential.

3 people found this helpful

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matty

5.0 out of 5 stars Essential reading !!

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 29, 2018

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Quite simply the best book on the subject you will find. Damo has a unique ability in taking something as complicated and confusing as Daoist philiosophy and explains it in an ordered, succinct and comperhensible manner. I have studied the Chinese arts for many years but the way it is explained here in this book gives rise to an "ah ha" or "of course" moment nearly on every page. If you really want to get to the how's and why's of Nei gong and Qi gong, then this book is essential reading.

5 people found this helpful

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Marc B.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Well defined Clear and concise journey along the Daoists internal cultivation path.

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 8, 2020

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I have been practicing qi gong for many years and have had several teachers (of varying effectivity) in different schools and from different countries along the way. I can safely say that for myself none have come close or compare to the authentic clarity and insight we can gain from Damo's writing- The western qi gong world has been waiting for this kind of material put together holistically as he has done here, for a long time. In this book especially, Damo has managed to take the flowery metaphor and often convoluted complexity out of much of the Daoist 'secret ways' and convey a relatively safe and definately effective method to progress along the path of Neigong (as long as the student is dedicated, sticks to the program and gets at least occasional instruction from a bonafide and experienced teacher) one will be able to open the channels, develope the dantien (and other centres) expereince significant health benefits (physical, mental and emotional) and ultimately become more at one with the cosmos. What more can the western aspirant ask for? if you are a qi gong practioner looking for "The Book" then this may well be it for you. Certainly i use it as a reference continually, it is my primary go to, at home font of Neigong wisdom.



内功 - Wikipedia

内功 - Wikipedia



内功

出典: フリー百科事典『ウィキペディア(Wikipedia)』

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ポータル 文学 ポータル 文学

内功(ないこう)は、中国の大衆小説である武俠小説において使われる言葉で、内家功夫、いわゆる気功とチャクラなどを指す。攻撃、防御、治療など様々な用途に用いられ、武術の基礎をなすものと位置づけられている。対義語としては外功がある。



内功は、体内から生み出される気である内力(内勁ともいう)を使う技で、呼吸、血流など、身体の内部機能を鍛錬し、全身の経絡を巡る内息(真気、気)を自在に操るもの。これを体外に放出することで、攻撃や治療などに用いることができる。点穴の技はその応用である。「柔よく剛に克ち、静よく動を制す」を要諦とし、比較的現実に即した、一般的な武術の技である外功より一段高く位置づけられる傾向があり、内功の裏打ちがなければ十分な威力が発揮できないとされることが多い。



内功を強化するためには通常は修行によってしか方法はないが、武俠小説では霊薬や特殊な動物の血を飲むなどするシーンが描かれている。



内功が至高の境地に達すれば、いかなる攻撃にも傷つかず、素手で岩を割ったり、木剣で鉄を貫き、更には毒の解毒までが可能とされる。このような物理学を無視した摩訶不思議な効力を持つ内功は、武俠小説における荒唐無稽な武術の説明に用いられ、独自の武学理論を形成している。

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Neigong
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Neigong
Chinese name
Traditional Chinese 內功
Literal meaning "internal skill"

showTranscriptions

Vietnamese name
Vietnamese nội công
Hán-Nôm 內功
Korean name
Hangul 내공
Hanja 內功

showTranscriptions

Japanese name
Kanji 内功
Hiragana ないこう
---

Neigong, also spelled nei kung, neigung, or nae gong, refers to any of a set of Chinese breathing, meditation and spiritual practice disciplines associated with Daoism and especially the Chinese martial arts. Neigong practice is normally associated with the so-called "soft style", "internal" or neijia 內家 Chinese martial arts, as opposed to the category known as waigong 外功 or "external skill" which is historically associated with shaolinquan or the so-called "hard style", "external" or wàijiā 外家 Chinese martial arts. Both have many different schools, disciplines and practices and historically there has been mutual influence between the two and distinguishing precisely between them differs from school to school.

There is both martial and non-martial neigong. Well known examples of martial neigong are the various breathing and focus trainings taught in some traditional Taijiquan, Baguazhang Xingyiquan and Liuhebafa schools. An example of non-martial neigong is the discipline known as Daoyin.


Contents
1Neigong and the internal martial arts
2Neigong and meditation
3See also
4References
5Further reading
6External links

Neigong and the internal martial arts[edit]

The Neijing Tu (simplified Chinese: 內经图; traditional Chinese: 內經圖; pinyin: Nèijīng tú) is a Daoist "inner landscape" diagram of the human body illustrating Neidan "Internal alchemy", Wu Xing, Yin and Yang, and Chinese mythology.

The martial art school of neigong emphasises training the coordination of the individual's body with the breath, known as the harmonisation of the inner and outer energy (內外合一), creating a basis for a particular school's method of utilising power and technique.

Neigong exercises that are part of the neijia tradition involve cultivating physical stillness and or conscious (deliberate) movement, designed to produce relaxation or releasing of muscular tension combined with special breathing techniques such as the "tortoise" or "reverse" methods. The fundamental purpose of this process is to develop a high level of coordination, concentration and technical skill that is known in the martial arts world as neijin (內勁). The ultimate purpose of this practice is for the individual to become at one with heaven or the Dao (天人合一). As Zhuangzi stated, "Heaven, earth and I are born of one, and I am at one with all that exists (天地與我並生, 萬物與我唯一)".

Martial Nei Gung is about developing internal power. One way to possibly achieve this is to train particular exercises regularly where the breath is matched with movements of blood or to effect the movement of blood throughout the body. Through these exercises it can be possible to move the blood to a particular area during a particular movement to have a particular result. One of the benefits of martial nei gung exercises is the relaxation of blood vessels, nerves, muscles and sinews to help the body move more freely. With the body moving freely and an excess of blood moving to a particular area with little or no effort, the practitioner can possibly develop many benefits. These benefits may include:
faster recovery from injury to the hands
an ability to hit with more force
an ability to move faster (speed is crucial in martial arts)
the health benefits of being relaxed
an increase in connection to your legs, spine, arms and head
increased stamina
increased athletic ability and health
regulation of blood pressure
actually experiencing the channels of the body as they truly are, which can possibly be different from the books
developing an authentic dan tien that is consciously nourished and deliberately formed which is not defined in the books
greater sensitivity for sparring and fighting

It is important to understand that anyone looking to learn Nei Gung sincerely, is more likely to learn it from a good teacher of internal martial arts like Hsing-Yi (one of the easiest and most powerful forms of martial cultivation). It is rare to learn authentic Daoist practices from a true master of the subject as quite a lot of the Nei Gung skills are an essential part of a complete system of martial arts. Nei Gung is not a philosophy, but a technique and an art of inner cultivation. There are intellectual guidelines to the practice of Nei Gung, but it is 'Inner Work' which means effort has to be put in to develop real, substantial and testable skills. This is not something that can be imagined or talked about, only from direct experience and hard effort can an understanding of Nei Gung develop. A true practitioner and teacher will take you on a journey growing your inner-world and showing you how to demonstrate the skills you are developing.

Neigong and meditation[edit]

This type of practice is said to require concentration and internal reflection which results in a heightened self-awareness that increases over time with continued practice. Neigong practitioners report awareness of the mechanics of their blood circulation, peristalsis, muscular movement, skeletal alignment, balance, etc.

What is said to be occurring as the result of continual practice is a type of internal alchemy, that is a refinement and transmutation of the "Three Treasures" or San Bao (三寳), in Chinese. The Three Treasures are known as Jing (精), Qi (氣) and Shen (神) and can be loosely translated as Essence, Vitality and Spirit.

According to Daoist doctrine the Three Treasures can be described as three types of energy available to humans. The Dao De Jing purported to be written by Lao zi states in chapter 42 that "The Dao (道) gives birth to the One, the One gives birth to the Two (Taiji (太極) or Yin and Yang (陰陽)) and the Two gives birth to the Three (which some interpret to mean Jing 精, Qi 氣 and Shen 神, or sometimes Heaven Tian 天, Earth Di 地 and Man Ren 人) and Three gives birth to the Four direction's, North, South, East, and West and so on to the 10,000 Things (Wanwu 萬物); which is all that exists between heaven and earth.

Neigong training follows therefore the classical Daoist developmental stages and regards the first two stages as a preparation for the last and final stage:[1]
Physical body (Jing) -> Energy body (Qi) -> Divine Consciousness (Shen)

References[edit]
^ Damo Mitchell: Daoist Nei Gong - The Philosophical Art of Change, Singing Dragon, 2011, ISBN 9780857010339, page 19
Further reading[edit]

  1. Blofeld, J. Taoism, The Quest for Immortality, Mandala-Unwin Paperbacks London, 1989. ISBN 0-04-299008-4
  2. Cheng, Tinhung. Tai Chi Transcendent Art, The Hong Kong Tai Chi Association Press Hong Kong, 1976. (only available in Chinese)
  3. Wile, Douglas Lost T'ai-chi Classics from the late Ch'ing Dynasty State University of New York Press, Albany, 1996. ISBN 0-7914-2653-X
  4. Wu Gongzao. Wu Family T'ai Chi Ch'uan (吳家太極拳), Hong Kong, 1980, Toronto 2006, ISBN 0-9780499-0-X
  5. Keen, Thomas. Iron Vest Qigong. ISBN 978-1-60243-000-6
  6. Danaos, Kosta, Nei Kung, The Secret Teachings of the Warrior Sage, Inner traditions, 2002, ISBN 0-89281-907-3
  7. Chen Kaiguo and Zheng Shunchao, Opening the Dragon Gate. The Making of a Modern Taoist Wizard.. ISBN 0-8048-3185-8
  8. Miller, Dan and Cartmell, Tim "Xing Yi Nei Gong: Xing Yi Health Maintenance and Internal Strength Development", Unique Publications, North Hollywood, 1999. ISBN 0-86568-174-0

Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change - Kindle edition by Mitchell, Damo, Engel, Cindy. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change - Kindle edition by Mitchell, Damo, Engel, Cindy. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.









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Length: 242 pages

Nei Gong has been a well-kept secret within the Daoist sects of China for centuries. Based upon the original teachings of the great sage Laozi, it has only ever been taught to close students of the masters chosen as the heads of the ancient orders.



This book provides a breakdown of the entire Nei Gong process, and explains in plain English the philosophy which underpins Nei Gong practice, and which is based on the original teachings of the ancient Daoist priests. The methodology of Sung breathing, an advanced meditative practice which has until now been reserved for 'inner-door' students is described, and the book contains an entire set of Qigong exercises accompanied by instructional photographs and drawings.





This book will be of interest to all practitioners of Qi Gong, martial arts and meditation, and will be a rewarding read for anyone interested in Eastern philosophy.







Editorial Reviews

Review

'The author suggests that the "Dao is accessible by everyone in one way or another. The form it takes only depends upon how much you are willing to put in." As with any worthwhile goal in life, it takes patience, diligent practice, good teaching and persistence to get the maximum benefits. So it is with Nei Gong. This book will give the reader enough insights to persue the study of Nei Gong further. The practices of Sung breathing and the Ji Ben Qigong set are bound to be of value to all who read this book. -- Yang-Sheng Online Journal This book drills down into the golden core of the ancient Chinese art and science of internal self-cultivation known as "Chi Gung" or "energy work", and after reading it, you'll understand why Chi Gung is the best way on earth to protect your health, prolong your life, and clarify your awareness of both aspects of the "Three Treasures" of life - mortal body, breath, and mind; and immortal essence, energy, and spirit. Known simply as "Nei Gung", or "internal work", this inner alchemy may be learned and practiced by anyone. Written by a dedicated practitioner who verifies scholarly research with personal experience and illustrates ancient theory with contemporary practice, this book provides the Western mind with a clear-cut introduction to Chi Gung that informs as well as inspires the reader to practice. -- Daniel Reid This is one of the best if not the best book on Daoist internal arts that I've ever read... Many books give practices but you don't understand the principles and reasons for doing them. This book is written so that you can understand the principles behind the practices. It is soundly based on the simple teachings of Lao Tze... I would recommend anyone interested in qigong and nei gong to get this book. -- Qigong Healing.co.uk --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.





Review

'The author suggests that the "Dao is accessible by everyone in one way or another. The form it takes only depends upon how much you are willing to put in." As with any worthwhile goal in life, it takes patience, diligent practice, good teaching and persistence to get the maximum benefits. So it is with Nei Gong. This book will give the reader enough insights to persue the study of Nei Gong further. The practices of Sung breathing and the Ji Ben Qigong set are bound to be of value to all who read this book. (Yang-Sheng Online Journal)



This book drills down into the golden core of the ancient Chinese art and science of internal self-cultivation known as "Chi Gung" or "energy work", and after reading it, you'll understand why Chi Gung is the best way on earth to protect your health, prolong your life, and clarify your awareness of both aspects of the "Three Treasures" of life - mortal body, breath, and mind; and immortal essence, energy, and spirit. Known simply as "Nei Gung", or "internal work", this inner alchemy may be learned and practiced by anyone. Written by a dedicated practitioner who verifies scholarly research with personal experience and illustrates ancient theory with contemporary practice, this book provides the Western mind with a clear-cut introduction to Chi Gung that informs as well as inspires the reader to practice. (Daniel Reid)



This is one of the best if not the best book on Daoist internal arts that I've ever read... Many books give practices but you don't understand the principles and reasons for doing them. This book is written so that you can understand the principles behind the practices. It is soundly based on the simple teachings of Lao Tze... I would recommend anyone interested in qigong and nei gong to get this book. (Qigong Healing.co.uk) --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



Book Description



The entire Nei Gong process in a clear and readable form --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



From the Author

Damo Mitchell has studied the martial, medical and spiritual arts of Asia since the age of four. His studies have taken him across the planet in search of authentic masters. He is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong School of Daoist Arts, and teaches Nei Gong in the UK and Sweden. --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



About the Author

Damo Mitchell has studied the martial, medical and spiritual arts of Asia since the age of four. His studies have taken him across the planet in search of authentic masters. He is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong School of Daoist Arts, and teaches Nei Gong in the UK and Sweden. --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.



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Product details

File Size : 3774 KB

Language: : English

Publication Date : August 15, 2011

Print Length : 242 pages

Word Wise : Enabled

Publisher : Singing Dragon; Illustrated Edition (August 15, 2011)



More about the author

› Visit Amazon's Damo Mitchell Page

Damo Mitchell

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Biography

Damo Mitchell began his training in the Eastern arts in 1984 and has spent his entire life studying the martial, medical and spiritual teachings of China, India and South-East Asia. His travels have taken him high into the mountains of the Far East as well as through jungles, into temple complexes and on searches for masters through the smoggy cities of China, Thailand and Malaysia. His time is spent between Europe, America and Asia where he continues to travel and study as well as teach and write books on Daoism and the internal arts.



Damo is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong International School of Internal Arts as well as the head of the Xian Tian College of Chinese Medicine. He can be found through his main website which is: http://www.lotusneigong.com

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Top reviews from the United States

Taiji on Maui

4.0 out of 5 stars Finally, a simple Way that can be followed

Reviewed in the United States on August 29, 2017

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Very good work. This is the book I would have written if I had thought about it. Damo very much demystifies Nei Gong so that it can be approached in a simple matter. I teach Nei Gong and have recommended this book to all of my students. I have learned to decipher all the "code "words used by the old masters. it is very difficult to read all the old classics and do that, so this book helps. At first I didn't like the book because maybe I was jealous! I have to give the author a lot of credit. This is the only book I have found ( I have a HUGE library of Tao books) that can help a lay person get a grip on one of the most complex of all the Taoist arts.

9 people found this helpful

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Erehwon

5.0 out of 5 stars Real information clearly presented

Reviewed in the United States on November 14, 2014

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Most books on the Chinese internal arts are either very simplistic works for absolute beginners or are written in an abstract and obscure style. Practical information of a higher level that is presented clearly is extraordinarily difficult to find in print. Those who don't have practical knowledge write in the most obscure fashion possible to disguise their lack of practical knowledge. Those who possess practical knowledge seem to fear revealing their secrets--though they do want you to spend money on their books. Damo Mitchell possesses real knowledge and has the gift of expressing difficult concepts clearly and in a manner that is accessible to the Western reader. Of course, no book on Nei Gong is a substitute for personal instruction. But, for those who already have a base of knowledge, this volume will be an invaluable asset to their development.

12 people found this helpful

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C. Thompson

5.0 out of 5 stars Good Stuff

Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2020

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a good book. if you know what to look for your find it in this book, related to nei gong.

in the meantime keep kicking the trees and scratching your balls while I'm behind them laughing at your punk ass...lol

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Brandon Pearce

5.0 out of 5 stars Thorough and clear

Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2019

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Having studied taiji and qigong for several years, this book clarified my understanding of the processes of internal change that can result from a serious practice beyond just the dynamic forms.

One person found this helpful

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Mathieu Goodwin

5.0 out of 5 stars Both intelligent and practical.

Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2014

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I have been involved in the internal and martial arts for the greater portion of my entire life. This book is absolutely one of the most valuable books I have ever read on the topic of Taoist practice. It is clear, concise, usable and reasonable.



Damo speaks from a place of authority not derived out of static and ossified traditions but out of a clear grasp and application of Taoist technology, philosophy and metaphysics.



I have begun integrating Nei Gong into my practices using the information in the book and am very pleased with the early results.

8 people found this helpful

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Leonard Foote

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2017

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I love his read, book was very good.

One person found this helpful

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B. T.

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2017

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I read it, and reread

2 people found this helpful

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Happy Gaby

5.0 out of 5 stars Damo is an advanced teacher displaying great compassion and sincerity

Reviewed in the United States on December 31, 2016

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I appreciate this book for its clear content, it helps one understand some internal changes happening during Nei Gong practice and it includes the cautions on needs to take while practicing. Damo is an advanced teacher displaying great compassion and sincerity, he truly wants to help others advance faster and expand their awareness. I do recommend this book for anyone sincere in their spiritual path. Thank you, Damo.

4 people found this helpful

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van hove fred

2.0 out of 5 stars not what I expected

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 15, 2020

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After reading the reviews from other readers, my expectations where probably to high, I was disappointed.

I hoped to find clear answers about what Nei gong is, and how to develop. I hoped to find a well researched work on Nei gong. this book is neither? There are no footnotes, never tells the writer where he learned or received his information, who where his teachers or in what lineage to they practice what he says. There are only a few references at the end of the book. We have to take his word that things are what they are because he says so.

I never met the writer, maybe he is as developed and good as he implies in his writhing. There are much better books out there for people who want to develop themself.



Sorry, not my cup of tea.

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paul godfrey

5.0 out of 5 stars nei gong

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 19, 2020

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useful book to do more research on the variations of daoist nei gong

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PATRICK REES

5.0 out of 5 stars Should be in everybody's book case.

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 1, 2019

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Had me engaged from the beginning...... still reading it. Undoubtedly, useful and interesting.

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Marco

5.0 out of 5 stars Please buy

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 1, 2018

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You must buy this book! Changed my life. Thank you Damo!!! A must have any one practicing and spiritual acts. It flows perfectly with all of them. Marcus Borg

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Cherry

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 8, 2017

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just love everything Damo writes. deep sound knowledge.



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