A discipline dating back more than 4,000 years, the meditation technique of Zhan Zhuang involves standing upright while allowing chi, the "energy of life," the opportunity to tune the body to a fine point of clarity.
Identification
Zhan Zhuang, translated as "standing like a tree," is an ancient Chinese exercise practiced in a motionless, balanced position to promote the development of internal energy and strength, both mentally and physically.
Significance
Also called "standing meditation," the technique builds strength for the various disciplines of martial arts while also promoting self-healing, relaxation, lowering of blood pressure, minimization of stress and pressure, improved alertness and a growth of overall health and energy.
Effects
In his book "The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing," author Ken Cohen writes of Zhan Zhuang: "It is a way of developing better alignment and balance, stronger legs and waist, deeper respiration, accurate body awareness, and a tranquil mind."
Benefits
Growing scientific evidence points to meditation as a proven method of quieting the mind while relieving some forms of depression, anxiety and mental illness.
Research
A 2008 study by scientists at Emory University concluded that meditation offers an element of protection for the brain while the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center offers meditation-focused therapy for the treatment of depression and other disorders.
Tags: Zhan Zhuang, meditation technique