Is Shibashi Set 1 the Ultimate Qigong Practice?

As a Tai Chi and Qigong instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve worked with many different forms, but Shibashi Set 1 remains one of my favourites. I now teach it in my new classes in Sherborne, and it's been so well received. People often tell me how much they enjoy the movements and how calm and energised they feel afterward.

Shibashi Set 1 is gentle and accessible, yet it has a remarkable depth. Every movement is designed to strengthen the body, improve posture and balance, and support overall well-being. Just as importantly, it stimulates the major meridians, helping to improve the health of the internal organs and encouraging a smooth, steady flow of Qi.

A Brief History

This set was created in 1979 by Professor Lin Housheng, a respected Tai Chi and Qigong master. He combined the flowing movements of Yang style Tai Chi with principles of Qigong and Traditional Chinese Medicine. The result is a form that is easy to learn, deeply calming, and widely practiced worldwide today.

The 18 Movements of Shibashi Set 1

1. Commencing Form

2. Broadening the Chest

3. Dancing with Rainbows

4. Circling Arms

5. Twisting Waist and Swinging Arms

6. Rowing the Boat

7. Holding a Ball

8. Carrying the Moon

9. Twisting Waist and Pushing Palms

10. Playing with Clouds

11. Scooping from the Sea

12. Playing with the Waves

13. Spreading Wings

14. Punching

15. Flying Like a Wild Goose

16. Spinning Wheels

17. Bouncing a Ball

18. Pressing Palms

    
    

Each movement is performed slowly and smoothly, with attention to breath and body alignment. The full set takes around 15 to 20 minutes and can be done standing or seated.

Benefits of Shibashi Set 1

Regular practice offers a range of physical and emotional benefits:

• Improved balance and coordination

• Better posture and flexibility

• Reduced stress and muscle tension

• Enhanced lung capacity and breath awareness

• Support for organ health through meridian stimulation

• A sense of inner calm and focus

  
  

Shibashi Set 1 is suitable for most people and is often used in community settings, health care, and rehabilitation. Organisations such as Age UK, Versus Arthritis, and many physiotherapists, nurses, and movement specialists use it as part of their work.

So, is Shibashi Set 1 the ultimate Qigong practice? I truly believe it is. This form brings together everything that makes Qigong such a powerful and transformative practice: graceful flowing movement, deep relaxation, mindful breathwork, and a meditative presence. It’s not just a sequence of exercises; it’s a complete system that supports body, mind, and spirit in perfect harmony. In my two decades of teaching, I’ve seen firsthand how it resonates with people of all ages and abilities. Its simplicity hides a profound depth, and its benefits continue to unfold with regular practice. For those seeking one form that encapsulates the essence of Qigong, Shibashi Set 1 is, without a doubt, the ultimate choice.

Interested in Sharing the Benefits of Shibashi?

If you feel drawn to Qigong as a way of helping others improve their health and wellbeing, Shibashi Set 1 offers a solid foundation. The movements are easy to learn, deeply therapeutic, and ideal for a wide range of people.

The instructor course includes information on how to structure a class, warm-ups and cool-downs, access to clear instructional videos, and six one-to-one Zoom sessions with a qualified instructor. You will also gain a working understanding of key Traditional Chinese Medicine principles such as Qi flow, the Dantien, meridian theory, and the concept of Wuji.

Many people from a wide range of backgrounds have already trained in this set, including those working in community health, aged care, fitness, yoga, pilates, and holistic therapies. It is a form now taught in many parts of the UK and continues to grow in popularity.

Whether you're looking to teach professionally or simply deepen your own understanding, Shibashi Set 1 is a natural place to begin.

Check out the course details by clicking on the link: www.taichiandlemons.com

Or for more information, email Tracey at: taichiandlemons@gmail.com