INTRODUCTION
In the realm of healing practices, Immortal Arts Qigong stands out. This profound system, rooted in ancient Taoist traditions, merges Qigong, Taoist philosophy, and meditation. Together, they promote self-healing, energy development, and spiritual awakening. This article explores its origins, guiding philosophies, practices, and transformative power. The system, as taught by Jesse Lee Parker, is designed for those on a path of self-discovery. Jesse, a dedicated practitioner, has over 25 years of experience.
THE JOURNEY OF JESSE LEE PARKER
Jesse’s journey into Taoist Healing Arts began in 1985. He was introduced to these teachings at his father’s studio, the Third Coast Center for the Healing Arts in Austin, Texas. From a young age, he felt drawn to Taoist traditions. His pursuit of these teachings has taken him to many spiritually enriching places, including Hawaii, China, and Taiwan.
Now residing in Kamakura, Japan, Jesse embodies the principles of Tao in his life. He has trained extensively in China’s sacred mountains under the guidance of modern Taoist Adepts. This journey empowered him to teach a traditional system of Taoist Inner Alchemy. Additionally, he is certified in Qigong through the Kong Ran Healing Qigong Institute. Furthermore, he holds a license as a TuiNa massage therapist under the Taoist Traditional Therapy Association of Taiwan.
Through profound personal experiences—including recovering from a severe spinal cord injury and a broken leg—Jesse gained unique insights into self-healing and inner energy. His experiences ultimately shaped the Immortal Arts Qigong system. This comprehensive approach to Taoist practice draws from ancient Taoist inner alchemy meditation, Qigong, and philosophy.
THE PHILOSOPHY OF IMMORTAL ARTS QIGONG
At the core of Immortal Arts Qigong is the philosophy of Balance & Harmony. It emphasizes harmony within oneself and with nature. Jesse teaches that balance with nature naturally cultivates self-healing, wisdom, and spiritual insight.
The mission of Immortal Arts Qigong is to empower people. Its tools for energy development and self-healing are rooted in the Taoist tradition. In time, practitioners experience vital health, rejuvenation, self-awakening, and spiritual independence.
TAOIST PRACTICE AND INNER ALCHEMY
Immortal Arts Qigong is often called Tan Tao, or “the Way of Developing the Inner Elixir.” The practice embodies Taoist Inner Alchemy principles. Today, many view it as a precursor to modern forms of Qigong and Neigong.
Understanding Yin Yang is essential to Immortal Arts Qigong. This principle, representing existence’s duality, is fundamental to energy transformation and balance. Jesse emphasizes that Yin and Yang manifest in all aspects of life. Therefore, harmonizing these energies is crucial for personal growth and transformation.
STAGES OF TRANSFORMATION IN IMMORTAL ARTS QIGONG
The Immortal Arts Qigong system guides practitioners through three transformation stages: Body, Energy, and Spirit. This approach ensures that participants engage with all parts of themselves, fostering well-rounded growth.
Additionally, practitioners experience the Five Gates of Change. This structured framework supports self-transformation and development. By following it, students navigate their journey toward self-discovery and healing.
EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Jesse’s years of experience have shaped Immortal Arts Qigong into a modern, systematic Taoist practice. After over nine years of teaching in Japan, he has witnessed its transformative effects on students from diverse backgrounds.
To foster community engagement, Jesse offers monthly workshops on inner alchemy meditation. These workshops guide participants through foundational stages, promoting health, healing, and inner peace.
A UNIQUE JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY
Jesse’s quest for wisdom began in his teens, driving him to seek out mentors across the globe. His path led him to American and Hawaiian shores, the spiritual terrain of Taiwan, and remote regions of China. Under the guidance of modern Taoist masters, Jesse studied authentic Taoist practices, uncovering the essence of Inner Alchemy that he now imparts through the Immortal Arts Qigong system.
This rich journey has shaped a unique approach to teaching, where Jesse distills the essence of Taoist philosophy, guiding others toward lasting health, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection to life itself.
THE ROLE OF A MENTOR
In our increasingly connected world, Jesse believes in the importance of building genuine relationships with his students. His role as a mentor transcends traditional hierarchies, as he considers himself a friend and guide, rather than an authoritarian figure. By fostering a bond grounded in equality, Jesse empowers his students to grow through their own experiences, offering Taoist wisdom as a support on their individual paths.
THE ESSENCE OF IMMORTAL ARTS QIGONG
The roots of Immortal Arts Qigong trace back to the ancient traditions of mountain Taoists, mystics who lived in communion with nature and sought immortality through esoteric practices. These early sages developed unique techniques for cultivating Qi energy, mastering breathwork, and strengthening the Dantian—the core energy center.
Today, these teachings are preserved as Nei Dan or Inner Alchemy. Through Immortal Arts Qigong, Jesse imparts a structured system designed to awaken Qi, guiding practitioners toward vital health, healing, and enhanced spiritual awareness.
UNDERSTANDING QI ENERGY AND THE TAO
Qi, the life force of all living beings, is the fundamental energy of the universe. Immortal Arts Qigong fosters a smooth, harmonious flow of Qi, which helps to revitalize the body, strengthen immunity, and support mental clarity. Practicing Taoist Qigong enables individuals to attune to the Tao, the ultimate source and flow of natural energy, promoting a deepened sense of inner calm and awareness of life’s interconnectedness.
By aligning with Qi and the Tao, practitioners find balance, resilience, and profound inner peace, allowing them to live with greater mindfulness and harmony.
IMMORTAL ARTS QIGONG: A HOLISTIC APPROACH
The Taoist tradition has long been dedicated to uncovering humanity’s highest potential. Immortal Arts Qigong reflects this ancient wisdom through a systematic approach, beginning with Taoist Longevity Breath Work, which prepares the body and mind for energy cultivation.
Participants learn traditional practices such as Qigong, Neigong, and TaoYin, advancing toward the more intricate practices of Taoist Inner Alchemy. This progressive approach fosters lasting transformation, guiding practitioners toward health, clarity, and connection with nature.
THE THREE TREASURES OF TAOIST PRACTICE
The Immortal Arts Qigong system is founded upon the Taoist concept of the Three Treasures, which encompass Physical, Energetic, and Spiritual development. This holistic model integrates the body, Qi energy, and spiritual consciousness, offering a path toward comprehensive well-being.
Training focuses on the Dantian Center, the primary energy reservoir. Through dedicated practice, the physical body and energetic system are harmonized, resulting in a transformative journey that enhances longevity, vitality, and self-awareness.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE DANTIAN CENTER
Known as the “elixir field,” the Dantian represents the center of Qi cultivation in Taoist practice. Within Immortal Arts Qigong, specific exercises activate and nourish this vital energy hub, facilitating self-healing and deeper self-awareness.
Through cultivating the Dantian, practitioners unlock a world of inner strength and spiritual insight, fostering a harmonious relationship with themselves and the universe.
FOUNDATIONAL PRACTICES IN IMMORTAL ARTS QIGONG
The Immortal Arts Qigong system begins with three foundational forms: Golden Lotus Neigong, Marrow Washing Qigong, and Iron Turtle.
- Golden Lotus Neigong: A seated practice that opens the meridians, transforms fascia, and strengthens tendons, positively affecting overall health and metabolism.
- Marrow Washing Qigong: Designed to purify and rejuvenate bone marrow, this form supports vitality and immune resilience.
- Iron Turtle TaoYin: This practice enhances flexibility, integrates movement with breath, and develops physical strength.
These foundational forms introduce key aspects of Qigong, granting practitioners benefits that range from physical wellness to inner tranquility and awakening. Through these practices, Immortal Arts Qigong offers a path toward health, spiritual insight, and self-transformation that aligns with the timeless wisdom of the Tao.
A LEGACY OF TRANSFORMATION AT MINDBODYINMOTION
At MindBodyInMotion, we are deeply honored to share the Immortal Arts Qigong system with our clients, witnessing remarkable improvements in their well-being, vitality, and inner peace. Over time, we’ve seen how Immortal Arts Qigong can create lasting, positive changes that extend far beyond physical health—instilling a sense of balance, emotional resilience, and spiritual clarity. Each session brings forward the ancient Taoist wisdom that supports our clients in cultivating inner strength and reconnecting with their own innate healing abilities.
Bastiaan Groen, a certified teacher in the Immortal Arts system, is passionate about guiding others along their unique paths to health and self-discovery. His journey is one of lifelong learning and dedication, as he continues his studies with Sifu Jesse Lee Parker. This commitment to ongoing growth and self-refinement enhances his ability to bring authentic Taoist teachings into every class and consultation, creating a meaningful and transformative experience for each participant. Through MindBodyInMotion, Bastiaan seeks to teach and inspire. This vision aligns closely with the principles of the Immortal Arts. Whether clients are new to Qigong or seasoned practitioners, we provide valuable tools for self-healing. Our focus is on energy development and personal transformation.
The Immortal Arts system offers a journey of discovery. We are grateful to be part of this path. Each individual is supported as they unlock new layers of health. They cultivate harmony and fulfillment in their lives.
