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It is best to get referrals from people whose judgment you have confidence
in. Check the yellow pages under categories such as Tai Chi, Acupuncture,
or Martial Arts. The National Qigong Association (NQA)
directory is an excellent source for finding instructors.
Keep in mind the following criteria for choosing a qualified instructor: what is their background and experience; are they of good character; do they treat everyone fairly and with respect; and do they live what they teach; do they refrain from making wild, unsubstantiated claims; do they encourage and bring out a student's highest potential? While keeping these points in mind, remember to trust your intuition in finding an instructor who is right for you. The best way to answer these questions and select a teacher is to visit local classes. Talk to the local students not only about the teacher and class content but also to ensure your compatible with the group.
If there are not instructors in your area, many teachers regularly travel to give workshops in all regions of the country. And while not a substitute for a personal instructor and meeting with a group there are now many excellent instructional books and videos are also available.
Note: While the term Master and Grandmaster historically have meaning, currently in the U.S. these terms are used for marketing purposes. many American teachers avoid the titles because of the relaxed student teacher relationship we enjoy in this country, and the fact that these tittles have been exploited.
Some questions you may want to ask when seeking an instructor:
What is their teaching style?
Do they teach by lecture, example, or through experiential learning?
Do they teach theory and history as well as the techniques?
Some teachers just teach the method and not the rich history or theory behind it.
What styles do they teach?
Not that one form is better than another but some are more demanding than others; movements and postures that may not be compatible with your health and or physical limitations.
Do they incorporate religion in their teaching?
Qigong is not a religion but it has a rich history in Daoist and Buddhist traditions. Some teachers like to incorporate this into their teaching. Others may weave their own beliefs into their teaching. If you have strong religious beliefs this is an important subject to discuss to ensure you and your instructor will be compatible.
* Some of the above content above has been adapted from an out of print
brochure created by the National Qigong Association years ago.
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