Resources - Primordial Chi Gung
Robert: What is special about Primordial Chi Gung?
Sifu Rubbo: In its simplicity Primordial Chi Gung covers the full range of Taoist theory and philosophy in this beautiful set of movements. It begins with emptiness, and from that emptiness is born yin and yang. Practicing this form brings harmony to Heaven, Earth and Man as you move through all of the directions of the Ba Gua, balancing the elements, and reversing the seasons. You are returning back to the beginning. It can be seen as a mystical rebirth, a continuation of the cycle.
The Tao is an empty vessel; It is used but never filled. O, unfathomable source of ten thousand things! Blunt the sharpness, untangle the knot, soften the glare, merge with dust O, hidden deep, but ever present! I do not know from whence it comes, it is the forefathers of the emperors.
-Tao Te Ching
Robert: What is the best way to learn Primordial Chi Gung?
Sifu Rubbo: From my point of view, all high-level chi gung is taught by transmission from a qualified teacher.
Robert: How is Primordial Chi Gung different from other forms of chi gung?
Sifu Rubbo: This form of chi gung is a complete system unto itself, one can attain the highest levels of realization practicing just this form.
Robert: What level of practitioner can benefit from this system?
Sifu Rubbo: All levels of practitioners can benefit. It will help if practitioners have a sense of their own energy bodies so that they can use their intention to control and guide their energies.
Robert: Are there any people who should not practice this system?
Sifu Rubbo: Skeptics, people who do not have an open heart or mind should avoid practicing mystical forms; it can lead them to further obstacles. They should start with externals and build an awareness of their mind/body connection.
Robert: Could someone experience any complications from practicing Primordial Chi Gung, and can it be done at any phase of life?
Sifu Rubbo: Because this system has such gentle movements, there are no precautions needed when performing Primordial Chi Gung. We have students who are in wheelchairs practicing this system; I have found that it is accessible to all. For seniors, this form can help with memory issues, due to the fact that they have to keep track of where they are while counting the repetitions of the sequences. This helps to keep the brain active. For balance issues, the weight shifting is excellent for stimulating and strengthening the muscle/nerve response.
Robert: Will this form of chi gung help to stabilize emotions?
Sifu Rubbo: When one becomes still and empty, there are no thoughts, when there are no thoughts, there can be no emotions. When you are concentrating on counting and keeping track of your position and direction, you can't concern yourself with erratic emotions. So this allows the body and the mind a resting place. Mind you, it will take time to develop the ability to focus this way; with perseverance you will get there. An untrained mind can be like a wild horse: If you are on the back of a wild horse, the horse is going to take you where it wants to go, perhaps to unwanted pastures. A trained mind, on the other hand, is like guiding the horse to your intended destination. I have found that Primordial Chi Gung is an excellent vehicle for training the mind.
Robert: How long does it take to become proficient?
Sifu Rubbo: That depends on the practitioner, and their karma with the practice. It is the journey, not the destination, that is of greater value. Take joy in the practice, and there will be success and your practice will bear fruit.
Robert: What have you, personally, gotten from this practice?
Sifu Rubbo: I have developed a deeper connection to and a greater understanding of the Taoist principles and have cultivated more sensitivity. I've noticed that because the laogong points of my palms pass in front of the point between my eyebrows, which is where the pituitary gland is located, my intuitive abilities have increased. I find that I am able to see more clearly the subtle energy bodies of others. This, in turn, becomes a great diagnostic tool in the treatment of individuals who come to see me. Practicing this form brings me great joy. When my wife and I practice this set with our students, we create a synergy, a beautiful undulating grace. The expanding and absorbing aspect of chi is truly tangible. It is an experience that is almost beyond words; we seem to touch the very edges of the universe.
Master Donald Rubbo teaches this form very rarely. He will only teach Primordial Qigong to qualified students who will commit to serious practice of the form. If you wish to study Primordial Qigong with Master Donald Rubbo, please contact us for an interniew at info@CultivateChi.com or call 415.459.9098.