The Damo Mitchell Podcast

In this episode Damo Mitchell and Adam Mizner once again get together to chat about various topics, including Taiji frames, Bagua mechanics and much more

A more personal podcast by Damo Mitchell reflecting on 20 years of teaching the Lotus Nei Gong School. He discusses the various phases he has been through as a teacher, how Lotus Nei Gong has changed, the conflicts involved in a school and various other topics related to teaching. This episode probably only relevant or of interest to those who are in Lotus Nei Gong itself as it's not an instructional one at all. 

A podcast by Damo Mitchell on the common question of 'should you lift weights alongside practicing internal arts such as Taijiquan or Qigong?' Many past and contemporary masters of Taiji have said that you should lift weights at all when practicing Taiji whilst an equal amount of teachers have said the opposite. This can cause confusion and so Damo attempts to answer this question from his own perspective and experience. 

Damo chatting with his father, Paul Mitchell, in Somerset, UK. They discuss the nature of classical martial arts training, the modern movements towards sports fighting, the history of Japanese Karate and approaches to both learning and teaching these systems. Paul has practiced and taught Japanese and Chinese systems of practice for many years in the South of England. 

Damo Mitchell, an expert in mental health and internal arts, shares his insights from the forests of Sweden. He discusses the surge in mental health issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, linking it to isolation and media influence. Damo explores the tension between sensory experiences and cultivation in Qigong practice, warning against losing touch with reality through extreme visualization. He emphasizes the need for structured learning and genuine human connection to navigate the challenges faced by practitioners and those affected by mental health struggles.

A podcast (as requested) on the topic of Baguazhang and the underlying principles of the system. Damo Mitchell discusses the similarities and differences between Baguazhang and Taijiquan. Further discussion then looks at the following principles of Baguazhang training:- Yi and Qi- The Baguazhang body- Static postures- Circle walking- Common errorsThe discussion covers the theory of developing the body prior to learning any of the forms of palm-changes which are usually what is demonstrated and what most people know as Baguazhgang. 

A very niche podcast here. This one is looking at the quality of touch in Taijiquan pushing hands. Damo discusses the difference between 'grappling' style push hands and 'subtle Qi type' push hands practice. The mechanics behind pushing hands and the internal arts in general are looked at as well as the nature of Qi within these arts, the place of 'somatic empathy' and the problem with 'empty force' style practice. 

Damo Mitchell discussing the phenomenon of 'speaking in tongues' which is commonplace within many Christian traditions but also within Qi Gong and Nei Dan schools. He discusses the nature of religion, his own approach to religious practice, the idea of attachment and the necessity for recognising transience when approaching the spiritual path. Another random chat whilst Damo is on the road in the United States. 

Damo Mitchell discusses the misconception that spiritual awakening is painful, emphasizing the importance of foundation work. He explores shifting from an external to an internal state, finding inner peace across spiritual traditions, and navigating the challenges of awakening, including stress and isolation's impact on mental health and chi deviation.

Dive into the intriguing world of semen retention and sexual Qi Gong. Discover the energetic and psychological impacts of this practice, along with the importance of intention behind it. Learn about the differences in energy dynamics between partner engagement and masturbation. Explore how managing sexual energy can enhance meditation and overall mental clarity. Debunk common myths surrounding these practices and uncover the benefits of a balanced approach to sexual activity.