Therapeutic KinesioStretch

Therapeutic KinesioStretch THERAPEUTIC KINESIOSTRETCH: WHERE TRADITION MEETS SCIENCE IN MOVEMENT

Therapeutic KinesioStretch – Where Tradition Meets Science In Movement

Therapeutic stretching has a rich history that intertwines with various cultural health practices and scientific understandings over many centuries.

Therapeutic KinesioStretch– Where Tradition Meets Science In Movement

Unveil the Power of Movement with KinesioStretch. Embrace the ancient wisdom of Dao Yin in the modern world Welcome to Therapeutic KinesioStretch, where the timeless art of Dao Yin unfolds into a transformative stretching experience. Our classes are more than just flexibility; they are a journey through the essence of selfcultivation and harmonious living.

Therapeutic KinesioStretch– Where Tradition Meets Science In Movement

Why Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

Ancient Roots, Modern Practice: Drawing from the deep well of Daoist traditions, Therapeutic KinesioStretch offers a unique blend of ancient Dao Yin techniques to guide and lead your body’s energy flow.

Holistic Health: Through Dao Yin we engage in movements that not only stretch and open joints but also balance your chi, enhancing overall vitality and well-being.

Mindful Expansion: Through Dao Yin we experience the tranquility of stretching combined with breath work, cultivating a peaceful mind amidst the chaos of daily life.

Therapeutic KinesioStretch– Where Tradition Meets Science In Movement

What can you expect from Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

Guided Sessions: Expert instructors lead clients through a series of gentle, yet profound stretches that target the connective tissues, encouraging a deeper connection between body and mind.

Personalized Approach: Our classes and sessions cater to all experience levels, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience for everyone.

Therapeutic KinesioStretch– Where Tradition Meets Science In Movement Workshop Highlights:  Understand the rich cultural history behind stretching including an overview of Dao Yin’s history and its significance in traditional Chinese medicine.  Learn the proper and safe way to stretch.  Learn an effective and beneficial stretching protocol.  Learn how to control and regulate your breath to enhance chi flow during stretching and massage.  Learn the proper way to touch and use pressure in stretching and tuina massage methods.  Participate in guided Dao Yin stretching routines designed to improve flexibility and stimulate meridian channels.  Discover tuina massage methods that target acupressure points and promote relaxation and healing.  Engage in exercises that activate and circulate chi, the vital life force, throughout the body.  Explore the connection between physical movements and mental focus to achieve a state of harmony and balance.

Learning About Therapeutic KinesioStretch WHAT, WHEN, HOW, AND WHY?

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

 Therapeutic KinesioStretch is a contemporary investigation of ancient and traditional stretching, breathing, and meditation practices.  Therapeutic KinesioStretch is a holistic fitness discipline that combines the ancient Chinese practice of Dao Yin with contemporary stretching techniques to promote flexibility, wellness, and mind-body harmony. It emphasizes the importance of gentle, flowing movements to enhance chi circulation, leading to improved joint mobility, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Therapeutic KinesioStretch is not just a physical exercise; it’s a meditative practice that encourages practitioners to connect deeply with their bodies, fostering a sense of tranquility and inner balance.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?  The ancient Egyptians practiced stretching exercises. They are known to have engaged in a form of physical activity that resembles modern yoga and stretching practices, known as Kemetic Yoga. This ancient form of exercise, depicted in temple carvings and hieroglyphic texts, included a series of postures and movements designed to align the body with the divine and promote physical and spiritual well-being.  One of the key elements of Kemetic Yoga is the emphasis on controlled breathing and the activation of energy centers in the body, which is thought to lead to enlightenment and a higher state of consciousness1.

The practice also included postures that work the entire body, promoting flexibility and aligning practitioners with ancient deities.  These exercises were not only for physical health but were also deeply intertwined with their spirituality and philosophy, reflecting the holistic approach to life that was central to ancient Egyptian culture.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?  In the early 1960’s when I began my study of Asian healing and martial arts, I was told that this knowledge and practices started in ancient Egypt and move across the middle east to Greece, into India and Tibet, and then arrived in China. From China these practices spread across Asia through Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Korea, and Japan as well as into the Pacific Islands.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

 The original Egytian martial art was called Tahtib. The term Tahtib originally referred to a traditional stick-fighting martial art named fan a’nazaha watahtib, which translates to "the art of being straight and honest through martial training“.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?  The 3000-year-old traditional martial art of India is called Kalaripayattu (Kalari). It is closely related to Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) and uses ancient massage techniques based on knowledge of sensitive points on the human body. Kalaripayattu is considered the oldest surviving martial art on the Indian subcontinent and is still practiced in regions like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Knowledge of Kalaripayattu is thought to have been taught to men and women by the gods.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

The most important ancient Eastern systems of exercise and stretching are:  Yoga: Originating in ancient India, yoga is perhaps the most well-known system that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and a philosophical code of ethics. It aims to unite the body, mind, and spirit for health and well-being.  Dao Yin, Chi Kung, and Tai Chi Chuan: These are traditional Chinese practices involving rhythmic movements, focused breathing, and a mindful state. They are designed to enhance the flow of chi (vital energy) in the body, improve blood circulation, and foster a calm mental state.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

Dao Yin (导引) exercise, collective a branch of Chi Kung, has been widely applied to medical treatment, health, and wellness since ancient times, and it is also acknowledged as an effective traditional rehabilitation therapy by modern Asian medicine. “Dao” (导) means the way to guide chi to promote homeostasis or balance in the body. “Yin” (引) means to gently stretch the body to gain strength and flexibility.

Daoyin Tu The earliest known physical exercise chart is the Daoyin Tu, a silk painting from 168 BC unearthed in Hunan Province, China. It depicts 44 figures in various daoyin exercises, including standing and seated positions.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

 Asian Martial Arts: Many forms of martial arts, such as Kung Fu and Karate, which originated in China and Japan respectively, incorporate stretching and exercise routines that improve flexibility, strength, and discipline.  Traditional Indian Wrestling (Kushti): This ancient form of wrestling, also known as Pehlwani, involves rigorous physical training and stretching exercises to prepare wrestlers for combat.

What is Therapeutic KinesioStretch?

 True traditional Asian healing and martial arts encompasses mindful exercise, breathwork, energy cultivation, contemplation, philosophy, spirituality, literature, art, and finally personal protection.

Our History and Lineage THE TRADITION OF THE HEALING AND MARTIAL ARTS AT THE ACADEMY

Early Beginnings – Kosho Ryu Kenpo Jujitsu Kosho Ryu Kenpo has a history that is deeply connected to Japanese martial traditions and the way of the samurai. The roots of Kosho Ryu Kenpo can be traced back to the 12th century, when it was developed by the Yoshida Clan in Japan. It was originally known as Kosho Shorei Ryu, a name derived from the Kosho Shorei temple complex.

The modern history of Kosho Ryu Kenpo is often associated with James Masayoshi Mitose (1916-1981). Born in Hawaii, Mitose was sent to Japan at a young age to live and study under his grandfather, a master in the art. He trained in a temple on a mountain named Akenkai, where he learned Kenpo as well as various religious and philosophical teachings.

Mitose returned to Hawaii and began teaching Kenpo in 1936. He established a school in 1941.

Early Beginnings – Kosho Ryu Kenpo Jujitsu This temple is believed to be where the Kosho sect of the Yoshida (Urabe) clan taught. The philosophical and spiritual aspects of Kosho Ryu Kenpo were heavily influenced by Mitose’s studies in the temple, especially the edicts to do no harm and to seek knowledge through nature and the environment. This philosophy was later encapsulated in Mitose’s books and teachings. James Masayoshi Mitose was appointed as a tenth dan in Aikido, promoted by O-sensei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido.

Early Beginnings – Kosho Ryu Kenpo Jujitsu The Japanese Yoshida clan was closely associated with the Shinto religion. The Yoshida clan had significant influence over Shinto, which is the indigenous faith of Japan, emphasizing the worship of kami (deities or spirits) and rituals to maintain harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual world1.

The clan’s connection to Shinto is particularly evident through Yoshida Shinto, a school of Shinto that taught the unity of Shinto with Buddhism and Confucianism. This school was named after Yoshida Kanetomo, who systematized teachings that had been transmitted by generations of the Yoshida family. Yoshida Shinto held that Shinto was the primal religion of the world, which in turn gave rise to Buddhism and Confucianism.

Early Beginnings – Yang Tai Chi Chuan The history of Yang family Tai Chi Chuan is a fascinating journey through Chinese martial arts.

The Yang family’s involvement in Tai Chi Chuan began with Yang Lu-chan (1799–1872), who studied under Chen Changxing, the master of Chen-style Tai Chi, starting in 1820.

Yang Lu-chan founded the Yang-style after adapting what he learned from the Chen style.

His style became known for its large, graceful movements and health benefits.

Yang Lu-chan’s sons, Yang Ban Hou and Yang Jian Hou, and his grandsons, Yang Shao Hou and Yang Cheng Fu, continued to develop and refine the style. Each generation made their own contributions, with Yang Cheng Fu being particularly influential in popularizing the style in the early 20th century.

The Yang family opened their doors to teach Tai Chi Chuan to the royal family, the military, and eventually the public, which led to its widespread popularity. Today, Yang-style Tai Chi Chuan is the most practiced form of Tai Chi worldwide.

Yang Secret Family Tai Chi Chuan

Early Beginnings – Yang Tai Chi Chuan

Professor Chi Kwang Huo was a distinguished figure in the Chinese martial arts and cultural community.

He founded the Chinese Cultural Academy in Evanston, Illinois, in the early 1970s. Professor Huo was renowned for his expertise in Tai Chi Chuan, Chinese calligraphy, painting, and poetry. He was also a scholar of Chinese literature, history, and philosophy, and a master in five styles of Chinese calligraphy.

Early Beginnings – Chinese Cultural Academy

Prof. Huo Chi-Kwang, a graduate of Peiping (Beijing) University, was born in the Hopei province in China. He represented 16 generations of calligraphers in his family which has produced noted scholars since the Ming Dynasty. Pro. Huo was a master of calligraphy, painting and poetry; a scholar of Chinese literature, history and philosophy, as well as a great martial artist. He was adept in the eight different styles of Chinese calligraphy, some of which are practiced and read only by scholars. In his native Peiping, Prof. Huo learned first from his mother and then his father, a noted calligrapher. He studied painting and calligraphy under the masters, Yao Mang-fu, Chen Shih-Tseng, Huang Pin-Hung, Wang Chen and Chen Pan-Ting. Under the masters, Wu Ch-ang Shih, Chuang Yun-Kuan, Hu Pu-An and Chang Pin-Lin (Tai-Yen), he studied literature and calligraphy. The Professor was the first elected representative of Taiwan, an advisor to General Chiang Kai-shek, an ambassador to the Vatican and France, and a friend of Pablo Picasso.

Early Beginnings – Professor Chi Kwang Huo Prof. Huo has had complete training in the Chinese Physical disciplines. He is the nephew of the legendary master Huo Yuan Jia. Played by jet Li in the movie “Hero”. He studied Tai Chi Chuan with Yang Shao-Hou, the elder brother and teacher of Yang Chen-Fu. Prof. Huo is of the third generation of Pa Kua Chuan masters. His teacher, Lee Tsun Yi, was a student of Tung HiChuan, the first master of Pa Kua Chuan in China. Tung's instructor was a monk who refused any usage of his name. Lee Tsun Yi was considered the top master of Pa Kua Chuan and Hsing Yi Chuan in China. He taught both disciplines to Prof. Huo. He also was a Pa-Kua Chang student of the legendary Taoist Master Li Chun-Yuen

Professor Chi Kwang Huo Sample of the Professor’s Calligraphy

Contraindications FIRST, DO NO HARM

Contraindications

 Contraindications for exercise are important because they serve as guidelines to ensure the safety of individuals when engaging in physical activity. These contraindications are conditions or factors that increase the risk of adverse events during exercise, and they can be either absolute or relative.

Contraindications, Absolute 

Absolute Contraindications (Situations in which stretching should never be used):

 After serious acute injuries.  Whenever a joint is unstable due to trauma or disease.  Uncontrolled high blood pressure.  Recent stroke.  Open wounds or skin ulcers.  Infectious skin disorders.  Severe osteoporosis.  Serious heart disease and/or congestive heart failure.  High risk pregnancy.  A detached retina.

Contraindications, Relative 

Relative contraindications in Dao Yin and stretching refer to specific conditions or situations where certain postures or breathing exercises should be avoided because they might exacerbate an injury or condition.

Here are some general relative contraindications to be aware of:



High blood pressure: Avoid poses that are increase blood pressure or that place the head below the heart.



Vertigo: Avoid sudden movements and use care with range of motion exercises for the head and neck.



Pregnancy: Avoid deep twists and any poses that compress the abdomen.



Menstruation: Some suggest avoiding inversion postures.



Neck injury: Avoid poses that put pressure on the neck or that hyperextend the neck.



Elderly: Exercise caution and tailor postures and stretches to the condition of the elderly client.



Hernia: Steer clear of poses that strain the abdominal area.



Glaucoma: Inversions can increase pressure around the eyes, so they should be avoided.



Recent surgery: Depending on the type of surgery, certain movements may need to be avoided to allow for proper healing.

Flow, Breath, and Energy THE ART OF MOVEMENT

Flow, Breath, and Energy

 There is no form of exercise that focuses on movement and posture flow, breathwork, and energy (chi) as masterfully as Dao Yin (Chi Kung) and Tai Chi Chuan. Seated Dao Yin, standing Chi Kung, and the practice of Tai Chi Chuan forms and ancillary exercises incorporates flow, breath, and energy throughout every movement and posture.  In essence, Dao Yin and Tai Chi Chuan flow is about connecting movement, breath, and mindfulness to create a holistic and invigorating experience for the body and mind. It’s a versatile practice that can cater to various needs and preferences, making it a vital practice.

Flow, Breath, and Energy

 Movement and Breath: With flow, each movement into or out of a posture is timed with an inhalation or an exhalation, creating a choreographed sequence that feels like a dance.  Meditative State: The continuous flow of movement and breath helps generate a meditative state, encouraging practitioners to focus on the present moment and let go of distracting thoughts.  Variety and Creativity: Unlike some yoga styles with set sequences, Dao Yin flow allows for creativity in sequencing. Teachers may design classes targeting specific body areas, themes, or abilities like strength and balance.

Flow, Breath, and Energy  Adaptability: Dao Yin flow can be adapted to different levels of practice, from gentle to more physically challenging flows. It’s inclusive, allowing modifications for those with injuries or disabilities.  Health Benefits: Practicing Dao Yin flow can improve heart health by reducing arterial stiffness, improve breathing in pulmonary disease, and improve strength and balance in the elderly as well as enhance mood. It also helps in managing stress and reducing anxiety and depression risks.  Flow, Breath, and Energy: However, there is no form of exercise on earth that master’s movement flow as well as Tai Chi Chuan.

Meridian Energy

 Body energy meridians, also known as energy pathways, are a fundamental concept in Traditional Asian Medicine (TAM). They are believed to be channels through which the life force, or Chi flows within the body. This energy circulates through the body along these meridians, reaching various organs and promoting health and vitality.

Meridian Energy  There are 14 main meridians that correspond to different organs and systems in the body. Each meridian has several points, known as acupressure points or acupoints, where pressure can be applied to influence the flow of Chi. The idea is that when Chi is flowing freely and is balanced, the body is in a state of health.

However, if the flow of Qi is blocked or unbalanced, it can lead to health issues.

Yin and Yang Balance The concept of yin and yang is a central pillar in Traditional Asian Medicine and philosophy, representing the duality and interdependence of natural forces. In the human body, yin and yang are seen as complementary energies that need to be in balance for optimal health and wellbeing. It’s important to note that the balance of yin and yang is not static but a dynamic equilibrium that can change with circumstances, time of day, seasons, and overall health.

Achieving and maintaining this balance is believed to be key to a healthy and harmonious life.

Yin and Yang Balance In the context of the body, yin qualities include aspects such as coolness, rest, and inward and downward movements. It’s associated with the body’s structure, like bones and fluids (blood and lymph)Yang qualities involve warmth, activity, outward and upward movements, and functions like digestion and the beating of the heart.

Balancing yin and yang is about ensuring neither energy dominates the other. If one is excessive or deficient, it can lead to various health issues. For example, an excess of yang might manifest as inflammation or hyperactivity, while a deficiency could result in coldness or lethargy.

Conversely, too much yin could lead to sluggishness or fluid retention, and not enough yin might cause dryness or restlessness.

Yin and Yang Balance To balance yin and yang in the body, TCM practitioners may recommend: Dietary adjustments: Eating foods that support the energy that is deficient or avoiding those that exacerbate the excess.

Lifestyle changes: Incorporating practices like meditation or exercise to increase or decrease yin or yang as needed.

TCM treatments: Acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal remedies can help restore balance by targeting specific meridians and acupoints related to yin and yang energies.

REFERENCES 1.

Dao Yin (a.k.a. Qigong): Origin, Development, Potential Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications - This article from Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine provides an in-depth review of the history, development, and scope of Dao Yin, its relationship with Taoist culture and Qigong, and potential health benefits.

2.

Daoyin - Wikipedia - The Wikipedia page on Daoyin offers a summary of the practice’s origins, its development as a form of Daoist neigong, and its role in cultivating internal energy according to traditional Chinese medicine.

3.

Tao - Wikipedia - While not exclusively about Dao Yin, this Wikipedia page provides context on the concept of Tao, which is intrinsically related to the practices of yin and yang, central to Dao Yin exercises.

4.

Historical Development of Daoyin Yangsheng Gong - Taiji Forum presents an article discussing the historical development of Daoyin Yangsheng Gong, detailing how physical movements are guided by the mind to stimulate the internal flow of qi.

5.

Kemetic Yoga & Its Historic Roots In Ancient Egypt - My Vinyasa Practice provides insights into Kemetic Yoga, its resurrection in the 1970s, and its growing popularity, especially among African Americans looking to reconnect with their roots.

6.

Did You Know: Yoga Has Egyptian Roots - Frugivore Magazine discusses the historic roots of yoga in Egypt, indicating that the practice of yoga in Kemet, an ancient kingdom of Egypt, predates its existence in India.

7.

Discovering Ancient Egyptian Yoga - Mindwalk Yoga presents information on the practice of yoga in Ancient Egypt, long before its evidence in India, and the concept of Sema or Smai, which symbolizes the union leading to spiritual enlightenment.

8.

Egyptian Yoga Postures Of The Gods And Goddesses - This document discusses how the mysteries of Ancient Egypt were essentially a yoga tradition that developed into modern-day systems of Yoga technology of India, suggesting that African culture developed Yoga Mysticism earlier than any other civilization.

Therapeutic KinesioStretch THERAPEUTIC KINESIOSTRETCH: WHERE TRADITION MEETS SCIENCE IN MOVEMENT