Mantak Chia, best known for his books and teachings on Taoism and Qigong

Published: April 2, 2009, midnight

b'Mantak Chia is an author, teacher and self-described healer. He is best known for his books and teachings on Taoism and qigong. Mantak Chia is a controversial figure in Taoism, alternately praised for public disclosure of long-held secrets and criticised for such a heavy focus on Taoist sexual practices. Mantak Chia claims to make esoteric Taoist practices more accessible to a modern Western audience. What is taught is a variety of qigong and neigong practices. Fusion of the Five Elements is a central neidan practice that are intended to balance qi or chi, a universal energy that all humans can access. The microcosmic orbit, or "waterwheel" exercise, is a central technique used to channel and circulate qi in many other exercises. The principal aim of most practices Chia advocates is the balancing of energy and the creation of spiritual alchemical "inner elixirs. In a world that is increasingly challenged by ecological, financial and intensifying social forces, the imperative is to function at our highest level of health and wellbeing, both in our inner world and our outer world. By being acutely aware of our energy levels, as well as being present in the now, certain Taost practices as taught by Mantak Chia, can assist us as we both navigate life and instigate positive change in our community and our daily life. \\u201cA perfect blend of Western and Eastern fitness to jump-start your day and help you relax at night.\\u201d-Deepak Chopra'