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Unleash the Spine: Swimming Dragon Body Qigong with Damian Saucedo

  • El Paseo Community Garden 944 West 21st Street Chicago, IL, 60608 United States (map)

Join us for Verde’s inaugural event of the season at El Paseo Community Garden!

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Swimming Dragon Body Qigong is a practice used in many of the internal arts for developing a flexible, supple, strong and powerful spine and body.

A very therapeutic practice, both physically and spiritually, as unlocking and releasing the spine will also help to unlock or release any trauma, physical or emotional tension, that one might be experiencing. The movements are reminiscent of that of a Chinese dragon rolling in the clouds or swimming in the ocean.

FREE (suggested donation $10)

 

About this Event

Many different cultures and traditions emphasize the importance of the spinal region. In Ayurveda, the spine is the Sushumna channel. In East Asian Medicine, the spine is called the Du channel, the Governor Vessel, which is all about Yang qualities (action and movement). The spine houses our central nervous system, connecting our brain to our bodies. Many believe the central nervous system serves as the intersection of our physical and energetic bodies. Thus the spine is the powerhouse for much of our lived experience, including emotion, sensation, energy, and movement. 

Ancient sages developed extensive Qi Gong practices centered on cultivating the unique qualities and gifts of the Dragon. Swimming Dragon Body Qigong practice focuses on understanding the flowing, serpentine-like movements of this mythical creature to promote physical and internal resilience. Join us in practice to discover how we can embody characteristics of the Dragon to cultivate longevity, mobility, and wellness.


What to Expect

Verde’s Qigong Therapist + Teacher, Damian Saucedo, will offer introductory teachings on Internal Martial Arts, the historical context of Swimming Body Qigong, and fundamental beliefs that serve as the foundation for the practice. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the movements of Swimming Body Qigong, with modifications to support any injuries or restrictions.

What You’ll Need

  • Comfortable and loose clothing, a bottle of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat & any other gear you need to keep you cool & protected from the late afternoon sun

  • Yoga mat or blanket (optional)

Swimming Dragon Body Qigong has the ability to: 

  • Cleanse and clear stagnation 

  • Improve mobility and strength

  • Increase longevity 

  • Promote healthy internal energy