Shan Shui: Mountains and Water Qigong and Meditation Workshop

Shan Shui: Mountains and Water – a qigong and meditation workshop

The ancient Chinese revered mountains as enduring, sacred places whose peaks towered into the domain of spirit and sky. Likewise, water was seen as fluid and ever-changing, a humble yet strong source of soft power and nourishment that is closest to Dao. These concepts informed the artistic tradition known as Mountains and Water, or Shan Shui (山水), that began in the 5th Century Ad, and is still popular today. Though predominantly a form of landscape painting and later a popular poetic form, Mountains and Water has also inspired the way practitioners of Chinese energy, movement and meditation arts can cultivate enduring health, harmony and balance.

This workshop will introduce the principles of the Shan Shui tradition and how it can inspire deeper embodiment. Through qigong forms and contemplative, meditative awareness, we will explore ways we can access the strength, steadiness and endurance of mountains alongside the fluid, changing experience of water.

A short talk will be followed by a gentle qigong practice and mediation. All levels are welcome, and options will be offered for those who prefer a seated practice.