I practiced standing meditation with a group of foreigners and Americans in Central Park West during the late 90's.
The public library here in New York has several books on Falun Gong under that title.
SFQ movements and Falun Gong are similar, the movements are slow, visualizations are on the universe, no emphasis on breathing however!
The group dismantled as reporters started taking photos of us and PRC(Peoples Republic of China) officials started making arrests of Falun Gong prationers. There was no leader in our group, the most experienced person would stand out front and do the movements one day the next day someone else would should the new student. One student would bring the masters tape recorded voice, and another student the cassette player, later they would discuss principles. I never had time to stay for that but as in the book they probably discussed whats similar to being a good Christian. So the cultural and religious perspective is included.
The was a claim made that if you listen to the masters voice and think of him when you are in danger or trouble his energy will be with you!!!!!!!
The effects were also similar to what actually, all chi gong masters claim, I did enjoy practicing it. I did feel very relax, calm, serene. And I actually did look forward to practicing unlike with other systems I've studied.
Uhm, the reason I stopped was because of the ramifications that were espoused by the leader in his book if you weren't obedient to the religious principles and the threat of not divine retribution, but of his.
I couldn't meet the challenge, I don't smoke, drink, do drugs, steal, but, I may tell a lie, keep a quarter I find and well any dishonesty isn't tolerated!
Basically, the last time I checked I'd say in 1999 the group wasn't there and I remember the most experienced FLG practioner was jittery about reporter, unknown photograpers spying, and worldwide attention the PRC was attracting to that group.
There were a number of articles printed on that group here in N.Y.C. in various spiritual neighborhood pamphlets, newsletters etc.
Spring Forest Qigong's founder can espouse a particular belief system but to westerns as you can see he has left it out, however the cultural aspects are, paying homage and giving reverence to your ancestors and master.
Well, since you mentioned them maybe I'll check the newsletter to see if they have a new practicing location.
Also, we use to practice outdoors in the wind and cold. You learn to concentrate and amazingly, in a city with strangers walking by, talking, yelling, dogs barking, taxis, buses, cars honking there horns, you reach your peaceful level and are still.
So, I'll practice Spring Forest QiGong anywhere, with practice the surrounding won't matter, not flashing camaera, tourists, staring inquistive onlookers, your calm.
Okay, find your peace!
Kandle!
