What is Nei Gong?Nei Gong, meaning “Internal Skill,” is the process of developing deep, internal change through disciplined practice of internal arts. Rather than being a single set of exercises, Nei Gong is a long-term process that integrates Qi Gong, Dao Yin, proper body alignment, breath regulation, and mental stillness to cultivate internal energy and balance.
Qi Gong: Cultivating Energy
Qi Gong translates to “The Skill of Qi” and consists of structured, controlled movements designed to nourish and move energy (Qi) through the body. The movements are deliberate, often gentle, and help improve circulation, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
Dao Yin: Strength and Purification
Dao Yin, meaning “leading and guiding”, is more physically demanding than Qi Gong. These exercises focus on purging stagnation and clearing obstructions in the body’s energy system. The movements involve deep stretches and strong physical engagement to ensure that Qi can move freely—similar to untangling a blocked hose to restore proper water flow.
Wuji: Foundational Stillness
At the core of Nei Gong training is Wuji standing posture, which translates to “without extremities.” This practice establishes a neutral, aligned position for the body, allowing the nervous system to settle and energy to consolidate. Wuji helps train both the physical structure and the mind, creating the conditions necessary to engage in deeper internal work.
The Lower Dan Tian: The Center of Internal Energy
In internal arts, Qi is the essential fuel for development. Without it, the practice remains hollow—similar to trying to paint without paint. While the human body naturally generates enough Qi for basic functions, deeper internal work requires an additional reserve of energy.
The Lower Dan Tian, located in the lower abdomen, serves as the primary storage center for cultivated Qi. Before Qi can be effectively built, the Dan Tian must first be developed and strengthened. This is done through Wuji standing practice and Dan Tian Gong exercises, which condition the body to hold and circulate greater amounts of energy over time.
Why Practice Nei Gong?
Nei Gong is a complex and demanding art, requiring years—if not a lifetime—of dedicated practice. However, even those engaging with it on a basic level can experience significant benefits:
Improved physical strength, balance, and movement efficiency
Greater breath control and nervous system regulation
Enhanced mental clarity, emotional stability, and resilience
Nei Gong is not a quick or casual practice, but one that gradually reshapes the body and mind from within. The results come from consistent effort and deep internal engagement—offering a path to long-term physical, mental, and energetic refinement.
Eligibility
Participants must be 18 years or older.
PREGNANT WOMEN
While Nei Gong is generally safe, pregnancy involves significant energetic changes in the body. Practicing Nei Gong during this time may interfere with these processes and could pose risks to the pregnancy.
MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
If you have a diagnosed chronic mental illness, we advise against engaging in these practices as they may exacerbate your condition.
OTHER HEALTH CONCERNS
• Individuals with severe heart disorders should exercise caution.
• Those with certain cancers, particularly lymphatic cancers, should not practice Nei Gong as it may accelerate the spread of the condition.
• For other health concerns, please contact us if you’re unsure about your ability to participate.
RECREATIONAL DRUGS
Practicing Nei Gong while using recreational or hallucinogenic drugs is strongly discouraged, as it can lead to disturbances with the Shen. Never practice while intoxicated.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
By participating in this workshop, you acknowledge that you are doing so voluntarily and at your own risk. If you have concerns about your ability to safely engage in these practices, please don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance.
Event Venue
Inner Space Des Moines, 1251 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines, IA 50309-1013, United States,Des Moines, Iowa
Tickets
