Taiji Shibashi

Shi Ba Shi

Shi Ba Shi (Shibashi) is a Qi Gong created in 1979 by the renowned Professor Lin Housheng, former director of the Shanghai Qigong Research Institute (Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine). The 1st and 2nd sets are most commonly practised, however, there are 8 sets altogether. Taiji Qigong Shibashi combines the beauty of Taiji (Tai Chi) movements with the healing effect of Qigong and Meditation. It places emphasis on synchronizing the 18 movements with proper breathing techniques. It is a gentle, flowing Qi Gong exercise routine that is also deeply relaxing.

Tai Chi Qi Gong Shibashi is designed to improve the internal and external health and well-being of the practitioner. The gentle rocking motions and stretching movements improve circulation and digestion. The chest exercises and controlled breathing are good for lung conditions and asthma. The body and arm movements aid in improving posture and balance. The overall effect of the exercise is to reduce mental stress and physical tension carried in the body's muscles. This Qigong is very effective and easy to learn.
Each movement is performed in multiple repetitions.

In our U3A Shibashi classes, we practise the first 2 sets.
Below are the written instructions for Parts 1 and 2. Further down are instruction videos of Master Gary Khor performing Shibasi One and Two at a slow even pace.

(Click on the written instructions below to see a video clip of the individual moves.)

Part 1, Eighteen Movements (Shibashi) Qigong, Tai Chi Qigong

1. Raising the arms.
2. Expanding the Chest.
3. Painting a Rainbow.
4. Separating the Clouds.
5. Rolling the Arms.
6. Rowing a Boat.
7. Supporting a ball.
8. Gazing at the Moon.
9. Turning Waist and Pushing Palm.
10. Cloud Hands.
11. Scooping the Sea.
12. Pushing the Waves.
13. Flying Dove.
14. Punching.
15. Flying Wild Goose
16. Rotating the  Flywheel.
17. Bounce a Ball.
18. Balancing Qi.


Part 2, Eighteen Movements (Shibashi) Qigong, Tai Chi Qigong

1. Peacock unfolds Tail.
2. Small Heavenly Roll.
3. Needle at Seabottom.
4. Willows Flutter in the Breeze.
5. Fisherman Casts the Net.
6. Farmer grinds the Corn.
7. Buddha in meditation.
8. Dragon circles mountain.
9. Lohan Focus Chi.
10. Hit the tiger's ears.
11. Monkey offers peach.
12. Warrior draws bow.
13. Crane in flight.
14. Maiden weaves cloth.
15. Cross hands and separate legs.
16. Circulate energy in Tan Tien.
17. Embrace the morning sun.
18. Standing Zen.