This article is a foundation for a series of lessons that focuses on a 4000 year old technique called Chi Gung.  The exercises will help you gather energy from all elements of the universe and store it into your body for later usage.  Most martial artists use this technique and many martial art masters swear by it.  The balancing of the body's nervous system and electromagnetic energy is the key to these exercises.

Today the lesson is a technique called "Hugging a tree" which is posture that will help the body generate "chi" and get the readers to understand what it feels like.  The primary body part to focus on in this exercise is the navel, and even more specific than that, an area about 2 inches below the navel called the Dan Tien.  Also make sure before you begin the exercise that you have not eaten anything for at least 45 min to 1 hour to maximize the benefits.  Make sure that your clothes a loose fitted and comfortable, and last but not least try to get the most natural environment as possible although a quiet room will do.  Now you are ready to train!

1.  Stand with you feet shoulder width apart with knees slightly bent.

2.  Slowly raise hands to shoulder level with palms in as if you were hugging a tree.

3.  Focus completely on you navel and inhale and exhale on a count of 4 seconds each.  As you inhale slowly pull your navel in and push it out as you exhale.  This is called Buddhist Breathing for later articles.

4.hold this position as long as you can, at first you may last 5 minutes.  After your arms are down take the rest of your time performing Buddhist Breathing with yours arms down.  Eventually with practice you will be able to hold it for the whole 20 minutes.

Below are links that will enhance your training with demonstrations from various instructors.

If you would like lessons on this type of training, Urban Active located on Murfressboro offers this personal training service.  Also,  Shiolin Concepts School of Martial Arts located at 3117 Gallatin Pike Nashville, Tn.37216 offers acupressure techniques starting at $65.