Qi is the energy or lifeforce that flows throughout the body. Gong is work or discipline. Qigong is a method to move the qi and enhance one's health and emotional state.

The turtle has been revered since Ancient China and has served as a model for long life, modesty and perseverance. Turtle Longevity Qigong is easy to learn and relaxing to practice. The form emulates the slow, methodical movements of the turtle, and uses visualization to invoke the turtle's virtues.

Turtle Longevity Qigong is currently taught in China by Grand Master Wang, Zhe zhong, the nineteenth generation lineage holder. Originally developed by a Wang ancestor over 400 years ago, this qigong grew out of his fascination in observing the movements made by an old turtle that repeatedly came to his home.

A small family whose male members had a life span of only 40 years, the succeeding nineteen generations, who practiced qigong, lived in good health into their 80's and even to 108 years old. Their qigong form was considered an heirloom, not to be shared with anyone outside the family.

Following the Cultural Revolution in China, Master Wang, Zhe zhong was so moved by the poor health of the Chinese people, that he joined other qigong masters who brought their family traditions out to the general public. Thus, he became the first in the Wang family's long lineage to bring forth the family treasure.

Master Wang was given permission by the Beijing Qigong Research Institute to teach Turtle Longevity Qigong throughout China. And he was very well received while teaching in Japan and Canada. In the United States; his students have realized powerful healings through their practice.

• Saturday, Dec. 5th from 1-6 pm & Sunday, Dec. 6th from 9-5 pm
• Level I instruction includes a dynamic standing form for cleansing and opening the body's acupuncture channels. A powerful sitting meditation energizes each of the 5 major internal organs. Qigong theories are given on how to build & conserve your qi. Turtle-like movements are slow and continuous, and visualizations are meditative and effective.
• Tuition (includes book): $190 if postmarked before 11/27/09, and $215 after 11/27/09.
• Location: Feminist Karate Union, International District 1426 S. Jackson, Seattle, WA 98144
• Download a registration form. Pre-registration required.

Those who have consistently practiced Turtle Longevity Qigong report health benefits such as normalized blood pressure, relief from back pain, reduction in diabetic symptoms, increased physical energy and flexibility, stronger immune function, stress reduction, moods stabilized, gradual weight loss, improved sexual function, enhanced intuition, and overall improvement in quality of life.