Health Exercises of the Celestial Animal The Phoenix

These are good exercises, developed by the Shaolin and Tai Chi masters to maintain a
balanced physical and emotional state. They are especially useful during this time when many of us remain stuck in our homes.

The Flying Phoenix

This exercise fights depression and cheers your soul. Be aware of the chi moving as you do this exercise.

1. Imagine yourself as a Phoenix.  Stand still and keep your spine straight and tailbone tucked in.  Your feel should be apart, about the same width as your shoulders with knees slightly bent.
2. Extend your arms horizontally as if spreading your wings.  Keep your arms flexed straight, then gently bring your palms upright, like wingtips. Keep your arms facing outward absorbing the chi.
3. Let your tongue rest gently at the top of your mouth.  Hold this pose for as long as you can.  

You will feel your palms tingling.  This is the chi gathering energy slowly before moving inward and filling you with a sense of well-being. Do this pose for 15 minutes every morning if you can

The Happy Phoenix

This exercise is believed to be amazingly beneficial for good health and it is said that those who do it faithfully will live long and healthy lives.

1. Stand straight with your left leg half a step in front.  Feet should be shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent, spine straight and tailbone tucked in.
2. Extend both arms straight in front, palms down.  Bend from the waist, keeping the spine straight, forward and down, slowly to about 20 degrees, spine still straight. At the same time as you are bending forward, let your arms swing back as if you are about to dive.
3. Look down as you bend forward, then straighten up.  Repeat this movement 9 times.

Lillian