Consider Qigong to Calm Your Mind and Increase Your Energy

A few weeks ago I attended a weekend class on Qigong (Chi Kung) in the hopes of learning exercises that could compliment my yoga instruction. I had some past experience with Qigong, and was interested in learning more about this ancient healing practice and its therapeutic benefits for health and wellness.

What I enjoyed most about the class was the use of mindful movements which helped shift my own state of consciousness from a sluggish and preoccupied mind to a more clear and focused state of present moment awareness. After many hours of learning these ancient forms of meditative movements, I felt both still and calm inwardly, yet fueled throughout like a powerhouse of energy. There was a unique sense of Aliveness that came from this practice that left my body humming. I was no longer functioning from a state of separation between mind and body (with my thoughts acting as the leader and my body slowly trying to follow directions). Instead, I was now moving through the world feeling more embodied, whole and integrated.

From the Traditional Chinese Medicine approach, Qigong uses slow, graceful, repeated movements to balance the bioelectrical energy flow in the body and thus improve health. In my studies of yoga, another ancient movement discipline, I know the same to be true of its benefits. Both Qigong and yoga use movement to balance internal energy (known as “qi” in qigong or “prana” in yoga) and aim to enhance the flow of energy, blood and body fluid for optimal wellness (only one of the many benefits of these practices). I can see how the more gentle, fluid movements of qigong may compliment a yoga practice or be used in place of some yoga postures if there are movement limitations. And for anyone looking for stress reduction, Qigong is a natural stress reducer!

Other mindful movement practices can vary in technique yet they ultimately aim to reduce stress and bring balance to both mind and body. Some examples are running, dancing or walking. What is your favorite mindful movement practice?

In health and Qi,

Lori

To learn more about Qigong or to find a Qigong practitioner near you, visit:

The National Qigong Association

http://nqa.org/

The Qigong Institute

http://www.qigonginstitute.org/listing/directory.php

For articles and research on the efficacy of Qigong read:

http://nqa.org/category/articles/

My favorite Qigong teacher in the Bay area:

(Try his 5 Element Qigong Utube video!)

Kaleo Ching

http://www.kaleoching.com/classes.html

*As with any physical activity, people who perform tai chi or qi gong may experience muscle strains or sprains. Gentle stretching before a tai chi or qi gong session can prevent most injuries. In most cases, you can safely use tai chi or qi gong alongside conventional medical treatments. Always tell your doctor if you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining an alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on an alternative therapy.