Chairing: Ron Timm.
From a Qi Gong perspective, a flexible, upright and strong spine promotes a harmonious and organised flow of Qi, provides a basis for spiritual work and provides access to higher levels of consciousness.
For these reasons, a correctly aligned and upright spine is fundamental in all inner practices. Many traditional spiritual methods, as well as traditional religions, know methods to connect the human being with Heaven and Earth.
Most often, these simple sequences consist of descending and ascending movements with different names. In ancient China, Kotau meant a respectful greeting, in Buddhism the bowing is known as Apacāyana, in yoga the Sun Salutation (Sanskrit: Surya Namaskar) is practised, in Zen the practice is called Sampai. Also in the Christian tradition (Prostratio) or in Islam (Sadschda) this form of showing respect is well known.
The spine is central to both the physical and energetic body. As an expression of the midline and central channel, its health and flexibility are crucial to the overall wellbeing and effectiveness of Qi Gong practice.

In addition to their ritual meaning, these gestures or sequences of movements contain all the elements of Spinal Qi Gong. We find in them bending and straightening movements that generate a rhythmic opening and closing of the joints. In this way, the dynamics of rising and falling are created. The body's pumps are activated and synchronised, resulting in a brisk and powerful flow of blood, Qi and fluids - the basis and prerequisite for inner work, the practice of tranquillity
and meditation. This refers to traditional spiritual practices, where this practice is not only to show respect, but also to prepare the body, facilitating inner work
and enabling practitioners to reach higher states of consciousness.
When all the joints are open, the body becomes flexible, the tissues supple and soft. This allows us to 'go deep'. In this sense, flexibility and suppleness simultaneously signify humility and acceptance, willingness and readiness to work and meditate more deeply.
Through the constant repetition of movement sequences, endurance is developed. To support the practice of tranquillity, this kind of strength and endurance is needed, as is flexibility and openness. The bowing practice taught in the Path of Dao system consists of 13 Qi Gong exercises. In this workshop, we will learn all the individual parts, exercises and contents of the 'Kotau' to eventually combine them together in a flowing sequence.
The workshop will benefit your back, strengthen the correct alignment of your body and musculoskeletal system. You will become more aware of your spine and posture and feel more alive and vital.
This workshop is designed not only for beginners but also for advanced practitioners who have back problems or are interested in preventing them. Together, we will focus on strengthening the spine, improving flexibility and cultivating awareness, all of which are essential for grounding, centering and maintaining health. Whether you are new to Qi Gong or have experience, this workshop will provide valuable tools to improve your practice and achieve deeper results.
Daoist Qi Gong offers a holistic approach, integrating physical practice with spiritual development to promote overall wellbeing. Simple Qi Gong exercises enhance both physical health and inner peace.
Daoism is one of the last spiritual traditions to reach the West, for it remains deeply rooted in nature and, by extension, the body. In Daoism, the body is seen as an integral part of nature, embodying the principles of life. Unlike many other religions that have detached themselves from the physical form, daoism retains this connection, offering us a variety of physical practices that are particularly valuable in today's world.
Qi Gong, a key aspect of the Daoist tradition, supports the health of the body - from joint and spinal care to the nurturing of the internal organs - while promoting metaphysical and spiritual development.

Path of Dao is a school of Qi Gong and Daoist (Taoist) arts - with many years of experience. Since 2015, it has been supporting the development of the body and mind of its students. In Warsaw, it offers a comprehensive programme of classes that combines tradition with a modern approach to help achieve harmony, balance and inner peace. Thanks to the teachers' experience and great teaching method, students can deeply immerse themselves in Daoist arts, developing their skills and discovering new layers of energy. Path of Dao is a space where everyone, regardless of level, can find their path towards health and transformation.