Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change Paperback – August 15, 2011

I have been involved in the internal and martial arts for the greater portion of my entire life. This book is absolutely one of the most valuable books I have ever read on the topic of Taoist practice. It is clear, concise, usable and reasonable.Damo speaks from a place of authority not derived out of static and ossified traditions but out of a clear grasp and application of Taoist technology, philosophy and metaphysics.I have begun integrating Nei Gong into my practices using the information in the book and am very pleased with the early results.

Most books on the Chinese internal arts are either very simplistic works for absolute beginners or are written in an abstract and obscure style. Practical information of a higher level that is presented clearly is extraordinarily difficult to find in print. Those who don't have practical knowledge write in the most obscure fashion possible to disguise their lack of practical knowledge. Those who possess practical knowledge seem to fear revealing their secrets--though they do want you to spend money on their books. Damo Mitchell possesses real knowledge and has the gift of expressing difficult concepts clearly and in a manner that is accessible to the Western reader. Of course, no book on Nei Gong is a substitute for personal instruction. But, for those who already have a base of knowledge, this volume will be an invaluable asset to their development.

This is an excellent book that contains information on how to start a process of transformation for individuals seeking it. Speaking through the language and tradition of Daoism, Damo Mitchell gives access and insight to the nei gong process in a clear and comprehendable way for readers to understand. I find incredible value in this book as it also includes experience from the author, not just fluffy information or mental exercises. I still continue to find more layers after each read. I highly recommend it. =)

a good book. if you know what to look for your find it in this book, related to nei gong.in the meantime keep kicking the trees and scratching your balls while I'm behind them laughing at your punk ass...lol

What I found most valuable in the book is Mitchell talking through advanced stages of Nei Gong training that he himself has experienced, such as transmuting qi to shen. Plus he gives clear explanations of earlier stages and is specific about what to do and signs to look for (though I wonder if people vary and some are bound to experience a different sign here or there). In no other book have I found these aspects so clearly laid out, and that's what makes this book quite valuable to me. He's a Westerner and plainly knows how to write to the linear-thinking Western reader. Though at times I felt he took that a bit too far. Unlike other reviewers here, I didn't appreciate as much the first half of the book, which goes over Daoist theory as it pertains to the body, qi, five elements, etc. Much of it is critical foundational info, but some of it was extraneous (e.g. the five elements), and I cringe a bit inside when these theories - and they are indeed theories - are presented as fact rather than interpretations of a body of experience. Yes, qi sensations are real and can be cultivated, but talking about things like negative and positive vibration waves in a manner that would probably run crosswise with physics is, I feel, trying to be too concrete with something that is ultimately unprovable, highly subjective, and interpreted differently in other cultures. To paraphrase the Tao Te Ching, "The Way that can be categorized neatly is not the true Way." So while I admire the breadth of what Mitchell has assimilated and presented (particularly at such a young age), I take some of it with a grain of salt. And that's fine, really not a big deal. I appreciated the few times in the book when Mitchell mentioned aspects of practice that he openly said he had not experienced. That sort of honesty is important in a book that is like a map charting unknown territory for followers.I can imagine people who are new to Nei Gong getting very excited after reading this book, and being eager to start practicing. I would add two caveats. First, much of Nei Gong advancement is done through meditation, something I don't think Mitchell emphasized enough. The book has a lot of great theory, but is rightly loose on practice, since there are various movement exercises that could be used in Nei Gong. However, I can't imagine one advancing far without a strong foundation in meditation, and more space could be spent in the book on his views about meditation techniques, experiences, pitfalls, etc. Secondly, people need a qualified teacher to put all this theory into effective practice. I've never heard of anyone advancing far without roadblocks requiring a teacher's help. Mitchell advises people to seek out teachers for this or that aspect, but really everyone needs a teacher, often more than one. Even the Taoist classics state that, specifying that books are not enough.Overall though, a very impressive book. Mitchell has outlined a process and levels of achievement that takes many dedicated practitioners 10 or more years, which makes this a great reference as we work our paths.

I appreciate this book for its clear content, it helps one understand some internal changes happening during Nei Gong practice and it includes the cautions on needs to take while practicing. Damo is an advanced teacher displaying great compassion and sincerity, he truly wants to help others advance faster and expand their awareness. I do recommend this book for anyone sincere in their spiritual path. Thank you, Damo.

After the first 50 pages it has given me a better understanding of the concepts every book on chi talks about and tries to explain. Not filled with "look how great I am" or "I'm great because I learned from these guys" just what he knows and it seems to me like it's more than almost any one else that's written on Daoist philosophy. No contradicting other things I've read, just making them make more sense. I can't say enough how much I'm loving this book.

Nei gong is a very difficult topic and this book delivers clear language and a teacher who clearly understands the topic. If you are a tai chi practitioner (or any other internal martial arts) and you want to explore the deeper aspects, this would be a terrific starting point.The author makes very esoteric concepts understandable, which is a pretty great achievement.

This book is the best, if you're an internal martial arts practitioner or thinking of becoming one then read this, I spent loads of money on lessons in wing chun, I just wish id read this first, so much knowledge is shared in this book most of which is hidden by others or sometimes not even known by many self appointed teachers. some weird things have happened to me and this book confirms them all and lets you know you're on the right path.

A very good description of Sung breathing and a path to follow.

this book gives generously precise, original, deep and right knowledges about daoist philosophy and internal practices. There are good and interesting explanations about anatomy and energetical body which help to progress in the postures and the sensations.The Ji Ben Qi Gong presented in the chapter 4 are very good exercices and can be seen in youtube with the author. Thank you Damo Mitchell for all these researches.

This is one of my most favorite books.

I liked the many details the book provide. I could feel the results of the practices.This book is a must for all interested in energy work at internal level.