Yi Jin Jing (Shaolin Qi Gong)

Yi Jin Jing, also known as Muscle and Tendon Strengthening, is a traditional Shaolin Qigong practice dating back to the Liang Dynasty (502-557 AD). It is attributed to Bodhidharma, the legendary monk who introduced Chan Buddhism to China.

According to legend, upon arriving at the Shaolin Temple, Bodhidharma found the monks physically weak and unable to maintain their rigorous meditation practices. To strengthen their bodies and minds, he developed Yi Jin Jing. This practice not only enhanced their physical resilience but also improved their concentration and overall well-being. Yi Jin Jing remains a cornerstone of Shaolin training,

This powerful form of exercise combines dynamic stretching, deep breathing, and slow, deliberate movements to enhance muscle and tendon resilience. Yi Jin Jing focuses on developing strength, flexibility, and coordination, while also promoting the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body. The practice is known for its effectiveness in improving physical strength, enhancing joint mobility, and fostering overall well-being. Mentally, it boosts concentration, reduces stress, and cultivates inner peace. Yi Jin Jing is particularly noted for its benefits in preventing injuries, speeding up recovery, and maintaining peak physical condition. Its holistic approach makes it a valuable addition to any fitness routine, suitable for practitioners of all ages and skill levels.

Shaolin Grand Master Shi Yan Liang

Grandmaster Shi Yan Liang was born in June 1978 in Yingshang, Anhui Province, into a Buddhist family. At the age of 4, he began to train Kung Fu under the guidance of his uncle, who himself lived in the Shaolin Temple. At 15, he came to the monastery. However, it was not easy to be taken in. After two rejections, he had the courage to ask again. He was then asked to demonstrate his Kung Fu skills to the Abbot, and was finally admitted to the Shaolin Temple. He received the Buddhist name Shi Yan Liang as a student from the venerable Abbot Shi Yong Xin.

In the monastery, Shi Yan Liang embraced a disciplined life, training rigorously from dawn until dusk. From 2000 to 2004 he was appointed as leader of the show group.

In 2004, Shi Yan Liang traveled to the Shaolin Temple Germany for half a year to teach as a trainer. He then returned to China. In 2005, he was sent back to Germany to work as a monk and as the lead training coach. In May 2007 he was sent to Austria to found a Shaolin Temple in Vienna.

In 2010, Master Shi Yan Liang passed the Grand Master examination in China.

On the 1st In October 2011, Grandmaster Shi Yan Liang founded the Shaolin Cultural Center in Vienna, where he still is in charge today.

Shaolin Cultural Centre

Ba Duan Jin (Shaolin Qi Gong)

Ba Duan Jin, also known as Eight Pieces of Brocade or Eight Silken Movements, is an ancient Chinese Qi Gong exercise dating back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD). This series of eight gentle, flowing movements combines stretching, breathing, and meditation to promote overall health and well-being. Unlike more complex martial arts, Ba Duan Jin is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Each movement targets specific body parts and organ systems, aiming to balance Qi (vital energy) flow throughout the body. The practice is known for its effectiveness in improving flexibility, strengthening muscles, and enhancing organ function. Mentally, it cultivates mindfulness, reduces stress, and improves concentration. Ba Duan Jin is particularly noted for its benefits to the respiratory system, digestive health, and spine alignment. Its simplicity and comprehensive health benefits have made it a popular daily practice in China and increasingly around the world, both as a standalone exercise and as a complement to more rigorous physical activities.

Rou Quan (Shaolin Tai Chi)

Shaolin Rou Quan, or "soft fist", is a form of Shaolin Kung Fu attributed to Hui Ke, the 2nd Patriarch of the Shaolin Temple (487-593 AD). It uniquely blends flowing, gentle movements with sudden explosive techniques, creating a dynamic practice that cultivates both softness and power. Unlike traditional Shaolin Kung Fu which emphasizes external strength, Rou Quan focuses on developing inner strength and energy flow. Its slow, rhythmic sequences are interspersed with quick, forceful actions that "discharge" energy, believed to cleanse the body of stagnant Qi. Physically, it strengthens the back, improves spinal health, and enhances balance and flexibility. Mentally, it sharpens focus, reduces stress, and boosts self-confidence. The practice's deep abdominal breathing techniques are particularly noted for improving circulation and calming the nervous system. Through its holistic approach, Shaolin Rou Quan offers a comprehensive path for physical conditioning, mental clarity, and spiritual growth, distinguishing it from more combat-oriented martial arts.

Gabi

Location: F1043
Schedule: Thursday 13:00 - 14:00
Cost: contact Gabi for details

Advanced Tai Chi class. You must already be proficient in the 24 forms to join.

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