Program Listings

  • Lodge: Single Occupancy Room – CAD $420.00
  • Lodge: Double Occupancy – CAD $320.00
  • Drala Cabin: Single Occupancy – CAD $400.00
  • Drala Cabin: Double Occupancy – CAD $310.00
  • Large White Tent: Single Occupancy – CAD $380.00
  • Large White Tent: Double Occupancy – CAD $290.00
  • Wood Cabin: Single Occupancy – CAD $380.00
  • Wood Cabin: Double Occupancy – CAD $290.00
  • Live or Staying Locally – CAD $200.00

Date & Time Details: Arrival Friday before 5 pm. Dinner is at 6:30. Departure Sunday, late afternoon, after tea.

Location: Dorje Denma Ling

Address: 2280 Balmoral Road, The Falls, NS B0K 1V0, Canada

Contact: Karen Porterfield
[email protected]
902 657 9085 x 14

Email us about program

Peaceful Body, Peaceful Mind: Qigong Levels 1 and 2

with Donna MacKenzie

July 21 - 23, 2023

When body is relaxed and peaceful, energy will flow. When mind is still, it will embrace qi and strengthen the body. In the Chinese arts of health and longevity, qigong simultaneously cultivates a peaceful body and a peaceful mind.

Physical health and mental well-being are closely aligned. Qigong is designed to cultivate strength of body and calmness of mind through Taoist practices that integrate movement, breath, and qi, or internal energy, to promote health and longevity. A form of gentle, relaxing exercise, qigong strengthens joints, muscles, tendons, and bones, increases flexibility, stimulates the circulation of energy in our body, and enhances mental clarity.

There are no requirements. If you wish to get started on improving your physical health and mental well-being, this program is for you.

This weekend is a rare opportunity to receive instruction in two unique qigong lineages, the Pre-Celestial Limitless Gate School (Xiantianwujimen) and the Yiquan School. Xiantianwujimen was founded in the Song dynasty (circa 10th to 12th centuries) by Daoist sage Chen Xiyi, who is recognized as “the father of qigong.”

These uninterrupted lineages have been handed down to Dr. Eva Wong. Donna MacKenzie has received these practices directly from Dr. Wong. There are 5 introductory levels; this weekend covers Levels 1 & 2.

Levels 1 & 2

Begin your journey of health and well-being:

  • In Qigong 1, learn six classic techniques that relax the body and two postures of standing qigong that gather internal energy.
  • Continue in Qigong 2 to learn how to guide energy through the body using the Nine Self-Massage.
  • Complete the program by learning Twelve Devas Tendon Changing — the most effective form of qigong used in repairing physical injuries and enhancing muscular-skeletal strength.

Levels 1 & 2 are always taught together. It is not possible to take just Level 1.

Who Should Attend

This retreat is open to everyone who is interested in experiencing the benefits of Qigong practice.

Graduates of Levels 1 and 2 may continue their journey with Level 3 – 5, which are offered regularly at various practice centres. However, there is no need to continue through the levels: Levels 1 and 2 provide significant health benefits if practised on a regular basis.

Costs

Tuition: $160
Meals: $40
Lodging: Varies by type. Please see the registration page for information on options.

Generosity Policy: If you need financial assistance in order to attend, please email our Finance Manager, Suzy Ulrich, at [email protected].

Covid Considerations

Please read the full details of our Covid policy here.

Useful Links

What to Bring & Expect at DDL
How to Get Here

Leader

Donna MacKenzie
Donna began studying with Dr. Eva Wong in 2010 and was authorized to teach Qigong Levels 1 and 2 in 2022. She is a Zen Buddhist practitioner, taught yoga for 14 years, currently works as an ecologist and a cook, plays music, and spends her time between Southern Ontario and Nova Scotia.
Learn more about Donna MacKenzie