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Neigong and Alchemical Arts
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The Principle of Mentalism: Mind as the Foundation of Alchemical Practice
In this second article of our series exploring the Seven Hermetic Principles, we begin with the first—and most fundamental—of them all: The Principle of Mentalism . This principle is placed first for a reason. It establishes the very ground upon which all other principles rest and defines our understanding of reality itself. Without grasping Mentalism, the deeper logic of alchemy, internal martial arts, and internal cultivation remains fragmented or mysterious. At its essence
Josh Goheen
Jan 305 min read
Against the Quick Path: Why Internal Cultivation Requires Time, Effort, and Depth
Practitioners of meditation, qigong, and Taijiquan face a challenge that is uniquely modern. We live in a culture increasingly shaped by speed, convenience, and immediacy. Information is compressed into fragments. Attention is fragmented into seconds. The slow processes of reading, contemplation, and deep analysis have been steadily displaced by short-form videos, oversimplified explanations, and the pervasive attitude summarized by the now-common phrase “tl;dr.” The integrit
Josh Goheen
Jan 234 min read
Entering the Alchemical Worldview: A Foundation for Internal Cultivation
As students step onto the path of Taijiquan, Qigong, Neigong, meditation, yoga, or related internal arts, one of the greatest challenges they encounter is not physical—it is conceptual. These arts did not arise merely as systems of movement or exercise. They were born within complete worldviews: living cosmologies that describe how the universe functions, how human beings participate in that functioning, and how conscious cultivation can transform both health and spirit. In t
Josh Goheen
Jan 163 min read
The Importance of Willpower and Discipline
Now and then I like to share material from other teachers, authors, and thinkers that I find to be valuable for students and for people in general. This is one such piece of material. While approached from the practical perspective of a former Navy Seal, Jocko Willink, this book perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Alchemical path. That essence is Will. In Chinese this is known as Zhi, one of the Wu Shen (Five Spirits) which resides in the kidneys. It is the source of ou
Josh Goheen
Jan 22 min read
Beyond Relaxation: The Alchemical Depth of Qigong and Taijiquan
In the modern world, qigong and Taijiquan are most commonly understood as gentle movement practices—slow, graceful exercises performed in parks, community centers, and rehabilitation clinics. They are widely promoted for improving balance, reducing stress, and supporting relaxation, especially among elderly or injured populations. This image is not incorrect, but it is profoundly incomplete. The majority of contemporary instruction does indeed emphasize soft choreography, mi
Josh Goheen
Dec 26, 20253 min read
🥋 Understanding Taijiquan: The Art of Supreme Polarity
What Is Taijiquan? Taijiquan (太極拳), often simply known as Tai Chi , is a traditional Chinese martial art that embodies the principles of...
Josh Goheen
Aug 8, 202513 min read
The Heart of Stillness: An Introduction to Meditation
What Is Meditation? Meditation is the ancient art of stilling the mind , refining awareness , and returning to one’s original nature ....
Josh Goheen
Jun 20, 202515 min read
An Introduction to Qigong
What Is Qigong? Qigong (氣功, also spelled "Chi Kung") is an ancient Chinese practice that integrates breath regulation , gentle movement ,...
Josh Goheen
Jun 6, 202518 min read
🌿 An Introduction to Taijiquan: History, Philosophy, Styles & Key Figures 🌿
What is Taijiquan? Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan), frequently abbreviated to "Tai Chi," is a time-honored traditional Chinese martial art that...
Josh Goheen
May 9, 202511 min read
Understanding the 16 Neigong: Foundations of Internal Taijiquan
In Taijiquan (Tai Chi), we often speak of "softness overcoming hardness," of "rooting like a tree" and "moving like clouds." But how do...
Josh Goheen
Apr 25, 202521 min read
Understanding Song (鬆): The Gateway to True Internal Power in Taijiquan
In the practice of Taijiquan and other internal martial arts, there is a word that often eludes easy definition yet sits at the heart of...
Josh Goheen
Apr 18, 202510 min read
Lower Leg Dysfunction: Causes, Impacts, and Effective Solutions
Lower leg dysfunction, a term encompassing various issues related to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints in the lower leg, is an...
Josh Goheen
Nov 22, 202413 min read
Upper Body Dysfunction: Causes, Health Impacts, and Effective Solutions
Upper body dysfunction is a common issue that affects millions, causing pain, restricted movement, and postural imbalances. Many people...
Josh Goheen
Nov 18, 202414 min read
Understanding Internally Rotated Shoulders: Causes, Health Impact, and Effective Correction Strategies
Internally rotated shoulders—a condition characterized by a forward rotation of the shoulder joint—are increasingly common in today’s...
Josh Goheen
Nov 15, 202415 min read
Understanding Lumbopelvic Hip Complex Dysfunction: Causes, Health Implications, and Corrective Strategies
The lumbopelvic hip complex (LPHC) is a crucial area of the body that plays a central role in posture, movement, and overall stability....
Josh Goheen
Nov 12, 202413 min read
Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Health Impacts, and Key Exercises for Relief
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common yet debilitating condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the...
Josh Goheen
Nov 8, 202412 min read
Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries: Causes, Impact, and Effective Rehabilitation Strategies
What is a Rotator Cuff Injury? The rotator cuff is a complex and vital structure in the human body, consisting of a group of four muscles...
Josh Goheen
Nov 5, 202412 min read
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Impact, and Corrective Strategies
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects many individuals, particularly those who are active or on their feet for long...
Josh Goheen
Nov 1, 202413 min read
Understanding Anterior Pelvic Tilt: Causes, Impact on Health, and Corrective Strategies
Anterior pelvic tilt (APT) is a common postural imbalance that occurs when the pelvis tilts forward, causing an exaggerated arch in the...
Josh Goheen
Oct 29, 202411 min read
Understanding Forward Head Posture: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a common postural deviation where the head juts forward, putting strain on the neck, shoulders, and upper...
Josh Goheen
Oct 25, 202414 min read
DISCLAIMER:
As with any diet or exercise program, always consult a qualified physician prior to beginning any new routine, especially if you have any health issues. The training and information provided on this site and in person is for educational consideration only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease, nor is it to take the place of any qualified medical treatment.
All original material presented represents the thoughts, opinions, and experiences of the author and is intended to be taken as such. All quoted or shared material is the property and responsibility of the original author/source.
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