Shibashi Set 3

Set 3 is a really well-balanced set of 18 Qigong exercises and, true to its subtitle of ‘Taiji Qigong’, includes the classic Tai Chi move ‘Part the Horse’s Mane’ modified for Qigong purposes although arguably it remains the most complex of the 18 exercises. Only 3 exercises require a 2-breath pattern and the remainder are low in complexity making them easy to learn.
 
Throughout the set there are exercises to work each of the 3 axes of movement; flexion-extension (Gather in the Good Energy…, Pointing to Needles at the Bottom of the Sea), rotation (Point to the Setting Sun, Thrusting the Fist with Inner Power) and lateral flexion (Sway with Prayer-Like Palms).
 
There are exercises for building lower-body strength (The Lotus Blossoms, Open Heaven and Earth) and for improving dynamic balance (Swing to the Left and Right, Point to the Setting Sun) and subtle variations of Balancing the Qi to open and close the set (Stretch to the Sky, Push Palms Down). Plus, the quirky Feel Happiness showing the playful side of Qigong.
 
Transitions from one exercise to the next are fairly straightforward so the whole set works as a continuous workout of 18 – 20 minutes that leaves you relaxed and energised.
 
The video below runs through the full sequence with commentary on the exercises. A more detailed breakdown of the individual exercises is also available. Shibashi 3 – Video Tutorials

List of Exercises