Everyone is aware that exercise is both physically and mentally helpful but, in consideration of our unique health condition and needs, some exercises can be beneficial and others downright detrimental. For example, for a thin-bodied person, it is better to refrain from overly rigorous exercise. In essence, thin people need exercise that will replenish their energy, while people with larger frames need exercise that will consume calories.

In Dahn Yoga, even with the same exercise, it is possible to effect diverse changes that are appropriate for a variety of physical conditions and individual goals. Because it helps people lose or gain weight, Dahn Yoga is right for any body type. Whether the ki energy condition is one of excess or deficiency, both create discomfort; therefore, it is necessary to remove energy that is unfit and replenish energy where it is deficient. For example, unfit energy clumped in the shoulder prevents the fluid circulation of energy and blood, blood that has grown stale becomes increasingly stagnant, and the shoulder becomes stiff and sore. When that happens, removing unfit energy from the shoulder facilitates improved energy and blood circulation.

In considering the same exercise for two different people: if one who has excessive energy or is a larger frame makes longer exhalations and exercises strongly, that person can experience effectiveness equivalent to that of aerobics. Those who are thin and have an energy deficiency should take longer inhalations, and those with illness can strengthen the flow of ki energy through their meridians even by simply rubbing their whole body lightly along the meridians. People with high blood pressure should make longer exhalations, and those with low blood pressure should make shorter ones.

All it takes is adjusting the strength and gentleness of the breathing and movement to fit your personal condition. With Dahn Yoga practice, you’ll surely obtain the results that you want regardless of where you start.

— Lynn Moon