Qigong for Life Blog
Learn all about Qigong for Life practices, perspectives and tips
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Qigong and Guanyin For Turbulent Times
This exquisite wood statue of Guanyin, portrayed in a unique pose, evokes a sense of inquiry, as if she’s contemplating, “What’s next?” Many of us resonate with this question of uncertainty, especially as we navigate current disturbing changes and the barrage of information these days. We often oscillate between resisting the unknown and, at times,
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The Connection Between Qigong and the Vagus Nerve
Even after 30+ years of study, I remain awed by the wisdom of qigong. Today, I’m reflecting on the vagus nerve which is part of the parasympathetic nervous system. It’s gratifying to see modern researchers recommending qigong practices as effective healing modalities for stimulating and regulating the vagus nerve. Ancient Techniques for Modern Healing The
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Qi During Winter
Winter is the most important season to mindfully conserve qi. Understanding qi during winter allows us to better respond and adapt to changing conditions by becoming more aware of the seasonal shifts around us. To best care for ourselves during winter, it is essential to align with the principles of nature that emphasize rest and
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Qigong in Autumn
According to the Traditional Chinese Calendar, which is intricately linked to Daoist cosmology, autumn begins on August 7. This day marks the solar term known as the “Beginning of Autumn.” Unlike a sudden end to summer, this date signifies a symbolic turning point. It indicates that the peak of outward yang energy has passed, making
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Qigong for Travel
Taking Qigong on the Road Traveling can be a joyful, exciting and an adventurous time. It can also be challenging and tiring. Travel can feel nourishing or depleting. Balancing your energy during these extremes can be made easier by incorporating qigong into your travels. Vacations are a time when we are fully immersed in traveling
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Qigong Breathing Exercises
In 2008, I was introduced to a set of unique qigong breathing exercises by Zhineng Qigong teacher Jane Jin. As I started incorporating them into my daily practice the effects were remarkable—I felt more awake, calm, insightful and stronger than ever before. These breathing exercises also helped to deepen and enhance my other qigong practices.
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The Qigong Practice You Should Know for Back Pain Relief
During my studies of Zhineng Qigong in China, a revered teacher once told me that if I could only practice one movement each day, it should be Bend the Body to Open the Spine from the Body Mind Method. Initially, I was surprised; it seemed like a simple stretching exercise. However, after incorporating it into
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Blossoming Qi at Elfin Forest Qigong Studio
Enchanted by Roses This spring, I find myself once again enchanted by the spectacular display of roses blooming abundantly around the Elfin Forest Qigong Studio. There has been a fair amount of research linking intentional qigong practices with improved plant growth and food crops with an eye towards improving yields. For thousands of years, cultures
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A Guide to Qigong Energy Gates, Centers and Acupoints: Part 3
In Part 1 and Part 2 we explored energy centers and gates. Now, let’s delve into some of the acupressure points, also referred to as acupoints. These are frequently recognized in qigong practices. The Importance of Acupoints for Qigong Practitioners Energy gates and centers along with a variety of acupoints are essential to maintaining a
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2025 Lunar New Year: Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake
It is time to bid farewell to the Year of the Wood Dragon and welcome the transformative energy of the Wood Snake. The Lunar New Year begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice. January 29, 2025, kicks off two weeks of festivities for many across China, other Asian countries and around the