Qigong encompasses a diverse range of exercises and techniques designed to enhance the flow of qi throughout the body’s energy pathways. Practitioners engage in gentle, flowing movements that can be tailored to various levels of fitness and mobility, making Qigong accessible to individuals of all ages and physical conditions. These movements are coupled with focused breathing and mindfulness, creating a synergy that promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Whether you’re seeking stress relief, physical fitness, or a deeper connection with your inner self, Qigong offers a time-tested path to achieving balance and vitality.
Integrating the practices of Qigong, breathwork, and meditation can create a synergistic effect that amplifies their individual benefits, leading to a profound enhancement of mind-body wellness.
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How Qigong is done:
Body Postures and Movements: Qigong involves a series of gentle, flowing movements and postures. These movements are designed to stimulate the flow of qi throughout the body’s energy pathways (meridians). Each movement is performed slowly and with focused intention.
Breathing Techniques: Proper breathing is essential in Qigong. Practitioners learn specific breathing patterns that synchronize with their movements. Deep, diaphragmatic breathing is often emphasized to help oxygenate the body and enhance the circulation of qi.
Mindful Focus: While performing the movements and breathing, practitioners maintain a state of mindful awareness. This involves concentrating the mind on the present moment, the breath, and the sensations within the body. This aspect of Qigong is akin to meditation.
Visualization and Intent: Visualization is often used in Qigong to guide the flow of qi. Practitioners visualize the movement of energy along specific pathways or within specific areas of the body. This combines the power of focused intention with the movement and breath.
Qigong, Breathwork, and Meditation Classes
I am now teaching regular weekly classes near Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire
Friday classes in Blackwell are 60 minutes:
- Â Qigong-style warm up and exercises (standing and seated options)
- Â Seated breathing exercises
- Â Seated meditation
Classes are open to all abilities as various options will be given for each exercise. No experience required. Classes are a mix of styles including Qigong (rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and philosophy), Pranayama (ancient breath techniques originating from yogic practices in India), and Meditation (primarily a combination of mindfulness and passage meditation).
Tuesday classes in Tredington are 40 minutes long and are Qigong only, with some standing meditation.
Class attendees should bring water and wear loose, comfortable clothing and trainers (bare feet and rubberised pilates socks are also fine).
