Testimonials
Sheng Zhen Meditation has brought
gifts of physical, emotional and
spiritual healing to many…
“…I have more physical and mental energy during Akido practice as well as increased body awareness and a richer sensitivity to my training partners…I was delighted to find that I had a powerful tool in which to face the stresses of life – an ability to experience positive emotions such as love and compassion without any apparent pre-meditation.”— Don Cleur, Aikido Enthusiast, Systems Analyst
“…significant improvement in the quality and length sleep…when I go to bed I am learning to stop thinking about work and or personal issues…I have noticed a calmer and more rational approach to problem solving, allows me to enjoy my work more and also bemore productive…The level of calmness and understanding has also improved in my personal life.” — John Paini Building and Property Developer
“…It has improved my health and stabilized my emotions which is of great benefit as I have many projects and activities…The practice has opened my heart and helped me make decisions and choices with more harmony to myself and those around me…I feel connected with the nature around me and the infinite…It truly has helped me to connect with my own God creator self and brought more joy and abundance to me and my family.” — Yia Alias, Goddess Dance, Women’s Group Facilitator
“…It changed my life, and stepped off into sharing SZ meditation with others.” — Kathy Realph, Sheng Zhen Instructor, Massage Therapist
"...I just started Sheng Zhen meditation 3 weeks ago. These mindful exercises make me relaxed and I am more aware of my stiffness and body movement. I think Sheng Zhen meditation is simple but meaningful exercises are beneficial for all ages."— Mayumi Takahashi, Student
"...The gold program, good program
For relaxation, health and a way of life.
Thanks for(sic) my teachers Elena
How to develop tone inner force (qi)? "
— Donny, Redfern Community Centre class
"...I am a retired solicitor, more than 80 years of age. Longevity is increasing in this country, and I believe what I have to say is important.
I was introduced to Sheng Zhen (a form of meditation) in Redfern, under the guidance of Elena- at the beginning of 2008, and have been attending classes since then as an “irregular regular”. I intend to keep up the practice for the rest of my life.
I must admit that for a long time I found the practice of Healing meditation almost intolerably slow, 90 minutes far too long, the endless repetition boring, the precision of the movements impossible to achieve. I looked with envy those persons in the class who said they came because they loved the practice, because I did not.
But for some reason that I do not understand, I persisted. Gradually I mastered the art of careful movement, of relaxed muscles in combination with mindful concentration, and now I not only enjoy it, I really value it.
I know that Qigong is an excellent physical exercise for old bodies. Old people, that is, aged 80 and beyond, in general do not move much. They do not stretch, or bend, or swivel. I do not accuse them of being lazy, rather, they are afraid of doing some damage to their bodies, and so they become more and more stiff and rigid to the detriment of all their bodily functions.
To an extent, they are right to be careful, old bones become fragile, balance become precarious, sight becomes dimmed. The aged are continually warned not to slip, trip, or fall. But lack of movement becomes self-reinforcing.
Healing Qi Gong cannot possibly do damage to an old body. It does not even involve standing – it is all done slowly in a seated position. And it produces results quite quickly. I have seen a lady older than I am gain mobility in her arms and shoulders after no more than six or eight classes.
But physical exercise is not the only benefit of Sheng Zhen Gong. The teachers place great emphasis on the spiritual benefit conferred by the flowing of Qi through the body. Any physical exercise creates a feeling of well-being, but Sheng Zhen Gong practised properly demands mindfulness about the slow disciplined movements. It quiets the mind, which is the basis of all meditative practice, and thus opens up the possibility of a
wider dimension to the practice.
I am acquainted with two Sheng Zhen Gong teachers and their dedication to the cause is impressive. I wish them well, and am happy to encourage others to take advantage of what they have to offer. " — Anne McDonell, Retired Solicitor, 80 years old
Testimonial from a cancer patient: I was diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancer over six years ago. Cancer was present in my lungs, chest wall and pelvis. Soon after diagnosis I began practising meditation on a regular basis. I have found it hugely beneficial to my health and well being.
I have practised a variety of meditation forms over the years
and found them all enjoyable and restorative. There have
been instances of retardation and reversal in the course
of my illness where I am convinced meditation exercises and
meditation have played a significant part.
Numerous studies (particularly in China) have shown the
potential of regular Qigong practice to influence health
and quality of life. Sometimes referred to as
'acupuncture without the needles' or 'moving
meditation', medical qigong has been shown to promote
relaxation and equanimity, increase energy levels and
flexibility, boost immunity and reduce blood pressure
and pain levels. It also seems to reduce the negative side
effects of chemotherapy.
I only discovered Sheng Zhen Gong a year ago - via
Youtube! I was instantly drawn to the remarkably
soothing and lyrical quality of the movements. The
exercises are gentle and flowing and leave the
practitioner feeling relaxed and energised. Sheng Zhen
Gong forms are also underpinned by an explicitly
spiritual philosophical stance which is both nurturing
and uplifting.
As a cancer patient I have experienced many ups and downs over the years with cancer at various times affecting the lungs, liver, bones, chest wall and lymph glands. Qigong has really helped me to maintain equanimity - to feel both appreciative of the present and hopeful for the future. It has opened my eyes to the immaterial world and to the remarkable healing possibilities within us all.
Conventional medicine, Chinese herbs and acupuncture
have all helped stabilise and control my illness but I am
convinced qigong has played an equally powerful role in this. GIven 2-3 years to live in 2003, I am currently
embarking on my seventh year post diagnosis, not clear
of cancer but feeling incredibly well, pain free, full of
energy and delighting in the daily practice of qigong. — Marian Waller
