Master martial arts trainer Matthew Cohen—once a self-described “little white Jewish kid in Inglewood learning kung fu”—provides instruction in this nicely-produced two-part compilation that includes an explanatory introduction and tension-releasing warm-up. The “Tai Chi” segment features three practices: one exploring the seven essential poses (such as “White Crane Spreads Wings”); the second repeating each pose three times in a moving meditation; and the last a demonstration of the forms in a continuous seamless flow. Set in a picaresque outdoor venue, the “Qi Gong” segment combines elements of “standing, breathing, clearing” techniques with moves such as twists, leg pulses, moon circles, forward folds, and standing poses. Concluding with a seated meditation, the program also includes a Q&A with Cohen. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)
Tai Chi & Qi Gong Basics with Matthew Cohen
(2010) 70 min. DVD: $19.99. Acacia (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-1-59828-612-0. Volume 26, Issue 3
Tai Chi & Qi Gong Basics with Matthew Cohen
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