Gateway Bodyworks and Wellness Center will host a workshop on GiCheon, an ancient Korean mind-body practice for strengthening the body’s healing power, on Tuesday, September 25th from 6 to 9 p.m. The cost is $60. This class is appropriate for all ages and no experience is necessary.
GiCheon is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice aimed at directing and strengthening the body’s “Ki” – healing life energy. Unlike TaiChi or QiGong, the primary poses are static and aimed at maximum flexion of the joints, allowing Ki to flow more freely, through a technique called “YeokGeon.” GiCheon exercises are especially effective for joint pain, spinal problems (scoliosis, slipped discs, arthritis, rheumatism, etc.), but are appropriate for anyone.
Master KiTae Lee, a native of South Korea and one of only a few people teaching GiCheon abroad, will lead the workshop. “GiCheon originated in the mountains of South Korea hundreds of years ago and remained obscure until the 1960’s,” he explains. “GiCheon is brand new to Western countries - it’s only in the past year or two that word has spread. What makes this practice unique is the way the poses develop strength and flexibility at the same time.”
The 3-hour introductory workshop will introduce practitioners to the origins of GiCheon; the six primary poses; and potential health benefits of practice, which include, increase in stamina and strength; release of physical/emotional blockages; and healing traumas. Master Lee has spent the past two decades practicing and teaching GiCheon to curious, health-minded individuals all over the world – Spain, Portugal, Russia, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Uzbekistan, Israel, Greece, Sweden, Finland and Ireland. He has conducted workshops for staff at the Korean Broadcasting System and the Korean Export-Import Bank, as well as at several respected universities. Lee holds a degree in Astronomy and Space Science from Chungnam National University. For more information, visit www.gicheon.org.
