8 Steps to Living a Long Life

A guide to healthy and happy longevity based on the wisdom of ancient Chinese sages • Shares an eight-step process based on the life-prolonging and health-enhancing methodology of the Earth Path of Taoism • Includes practices focused on posture, breathing, mental health, energy flow, and meditation, as well as eight mind-body Daoyin longevity exercises, complete with illustrated instructions • Explores what causes premature aging and how to avoid it, along with longevity secrets of the legendary Eight Immortals According to the ancient Chinese sages, the most achievable way to health, longevity, and enlightenment starts with the Earth Path of Taoism, which guides people to physically nurture the body, calm the mind, and stir the spirit. In this practical guide, Sifu Peter Newton explains the principles and practices underlying the life-prolonging and health-enhancing methodology of the Earth Path and provides an easy-to-follow eight-step process to integrate this longevity wisdom into daily life. Sharing clear illustrations and instructions, Peter explores each of the eight steps in detail: Step one focuses on learning what causes premature aging and how to avoid it, sharing wisdom from Tai Chi and Qi Gong. Step two explores the importance of erect posture and the importance of thinking with a long perspective and flexibility. Step three looks at profound breathing to nourish the system with oxygen and movement. Step four reveals the secrets of longevity icons, including legendary Chinese figures and deities who grew old living according to Taoist doctrine. In step five, the author explores the rhythms of yin and yang, including how to work with their energies. Step six offers thoughts on “how to sit quietly,” looking at the benefits of sitting and standing meditation. Step seven, “stirring the shen,” introduces the notion of primordial shen, the root of life, which resides in the heart and can be circulated through the body to stabilize and center the mind. The final eighth step consists of eight mind-body Daoyin longevity exercises, which help you redirect and refine qi, the internal energy of the body. Revealing how the Earth Path of longevity is accessible to everyone, regardless of your physical ability or age, this guide shows how each of us has the ability to live a long and healthy life.