 DATES OF 2011 RETREATS TBC Chi Kung Retreat Normandy, France Intermediate Level
3rd to 10th July 2010 WHEN AND WHEREThe College of Elemental Chi Kung is running an Intermediate level retreat from 3 - 10 July 2010. The venue is a converted farmhouse in the secluded hamlet of Beauval en Caux (Normandy, France) which is surrounded by scenic and peaceful farmland just 30mins drive from the port of Dieppe (or a 2.5hr drive from the port of Calais). TUITIONThe theme of the retreat is Stillness in Movement & Movement in Stillness. The first half of the retreat will focus on realising true stillness in the body and being present with stillness when moving. This will be achieved by visualisation and gentle movement. The second half of the retreat will focus on internal and external stillness using breath, meditation and Nei Kung forms. This week is designed to give students the ability to be present and maintain the Chi state when practicing. The week will include daily practice at regular intervals, periods of silence and directed contemplation. The venue will provide an ayurvedic detoxifying diet. The food is designed to complement the nature of the retreat. The first evening will be an introduction to the programme, practice and evening meal. The retreat will be led by Thalbert Allen and Dan Brierley. | COSTThe cost of the retreat is £570 which includes tuition, shared accommodation, food, and transport to and from the port of Dieppe. Please note that transport to and from France is not included in the price and needs to be organised by participants. A deposit of £150 is required when booking to secure your place. The retreat will finish on the afternoon of the 10 July and participants should be ready to leave the retreat centre then. For further information or to book a place contact the College - info2@elementalchikung.com Chi Kung Retreat Tuscany All Levels
1st to 7th August 2010 WHEN AND WHEREThis year the College of Elemental Chi Kung is running a retreat open to all levels in Italy, at Montespertoli in Tuscany. The venue is an old farmhouse situated in the village of "I tre Santi" near the town of Montespertoli. The centre "I tre Santi" is situated on the summit of a hill from which there are stunning views on all sides. Surrounded by 4 hectares of olive trees and vines, there is a salt swimming pool and beautiful terraces. The airport is 1 hour away in Florence, Sienna and Pisa and the railway station, Castelfiorentino, is 10 minutes away. TUITIONThe theme of the retreat will be the Five Animals. The Five Animal exercises are some of the oldest known Chi Kungs. They are an excellent way to balance the Five Elements in the body. The Five Animals consist of the Bird, representing Fire; The Monkey, representing Earth; the Tiger, representing Metal; the Bear, representing Water; and the Deer, representing Wood. These Chi Kungs are very good for strengthening and revitalising the body. They are also very good for improving health around Five Element imbalances. These Chi Kungs can be interesting, fun, graceful and provide a sense of whole body integration. | The week will include daily practice at regular intervals, periods of silence and directed contemplation. The venue will provide a healthy diet with much of the produce home or locally grown. The first evening will be an introduction to the programme, practice and evening meal. The retreat will end at lunchtime on 7th August and participants should be ready to leave the retreat centre then. The retreat will be led by Thalbert Allen with Sue Reed assisting and translating. COSTThe cost of the retreat is 730euros which includes tuition, accommodation and food. Please note that transport to and from Italy is not included in the price and needs to be organised by participants. For photos of the Italian retreat please click here For further information or to book a place please contact Sue Reed at info@ilrespirodellavita.it Chi Kung is an ancient Chinese form of movement exercise that promotes the flow of Chi (vital energy) through the body. It translates as ‘energy work’ in English and comprises exercises for stretching and mobilising the body and joints, breathing techniques, slow movement exercises, static postures, special walking methods and meditation.
Chi is the body’s vital energy which Chi Kung builds up to establish a physiological and psychological harmony.
Most of the theory behind Chi Kung is common to Chinese Medicine with which it has a traditional link. Chi Kung is also associated with Taoist and Buddhist philosophies and practices. |
