Abstract

Within the context of a larger discussion of Dao Yin, Damo Mitchell teaches and explains the Dragon Dao Yin exercises, a set of four short sequences designed to work with the subtle energies of the spine and lead pathogenic energies out of the body.

More 'Yang' in nature than Qi Gong, Dao Yin focuses on outwards movements and strong internal cleansing. The book highlights this important distinction and covers the theory, history and development of Dao Yin exercises, as well as the relationship between Chinese medical theory and Dao Yin training. One chapter is devoted to problems related to stagnation and the flow of Qi, and explains the different causes and forms of stagnation. Later chapters look at breathing patterns and the extension of Yi, opening the joints, and rotating the bones and spine. Damo Mitchell also discusses stillness as the source of movement, the philosophical significance of the Dragon and the pearl, and the means of hardwiring Dao Yin exercises into the energetic body. Central to the discussion is the concept of the spine, and how to wake it up.

For the first time in the English language, the Dragon exercises – Awakening, Swimming, Soaring and Drunken – are described in detail, with photographs and step-by-step instructions on each of the exercises as individual therapeutic exercises and as a form.

The Four Dragons completes a trilogy of plain English Daoist Nei Gong titles setting out a methodology which has proven so successful at Damo Mitchell's courses in Europe, the USA, and Asia. Damo's structured approach to physical health and energetic purging has connected a current generation of students to the energetic realm and prepared them for the next proposition in the Daoist Arts - nei dan.
Steve Galloway, practising Nei Gong teacher and owner of www.taiji-online.co.uk
The Four Dragons brilliantly conveys, with ease, clarity, and a refreshing sense of humor, ancient Daoist principles and teachings of Qi Gong, Dao Yin and Nei Dan. Until now this information has been shrouded in mystery and secrecy, behind monastery walls, for millennia. With practice, both the beginner and the advanced student will benefit greatly by the reading of this book, experiencing rapid improvements in health and wellbeing. One who cultivates further will be guided to the deepest levels of inner consciousness.
Barbara Abrams, L.Ac., Acupuncturist, and Faculty, Maryland University of Integrative Health
Damo Mitchell has studied the martial, medical and spiritual arts of Asia since the age of four. His studies have taken him across the planet in search of authentic masters. He is the technical director of the Lotus Nei Gong School of Daoist Arts, and teaches Nei Gong in the UK, Sweden and the USA. He is the author of Heavenly Streams: Meridian Theory in Nei Gong and Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change, also published by Singing Dragon.