Workshops offer us the luxury of extended time for delving deeper into the nuances of the qigong theories and practices. Our recent Lift Qi Up Pour Qi Down Immersion Workshop was no exception with several conversations about not only the nuances of the movements but also the history and intent of the form. This extended time…
Qigong study and practice inherently supports us in activating an inner awareness of our deep connection to the natural world. By nurturing this connection we naturally cultivate a holistic view of our surroundings, our selves and of all living beings. With that often comes a greater sense of kindness and compassion. My earliest memories are…
Practitioners can easily and quickly sense the beneficial effects of qigong during and after practice. We can also gain valuable insight into the myriad of benefits through becoming familiar with results of scientific qigong studies. This extensive article on the medical applications of qigong reviews several studies. I encourage you to absorb this information to further support…
Have you felt like slowing down a bit and not taking on new projects or adventures? If yes, then you are in tune with the energies associated with the upcoming year of the Yin Wood Sheep. February 19, 2015 marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year, which coincides with the second new moon after…
As the calendar year comes to an end, it is a time when it feels natural to reflect on the past. While reflecting I was particularly struck by the unexpected gifts qigong has brought to my life. Over the years of practicing and teaching, I’ve become aware that the unexpected gifts of qigong often make…
For this last part in our series about our weekend with Teacher Jianshe, I will endeavor to explain the basic concepts of Yi Yuan Ti (YYT). On a bright morning during the workshop we settled in comfortably to listen to Jianshe talk on the subject. YYT is perhaps the most important theory associated with Dr.…
During the August workshop Teacher Jianshe focused an afternoon on the subject of happiness. When he introduced this subject the studio felt full of subtle energy and due to our deep relaxation and expanded awareness it felt effortless to absorb this wisdom: “Happiness from nothing lasts forever.” –Teacher Jianshe Jianshe went on to describe that…
Our recent weekend with Zhineng Qigong Teacher Jianshe provided a unique opportunity for us to be taught by a Chinese teacher who spent many years at the Huaxia Zhineng Qigong Center in China. Teacher Jianshe helped us create a subtle, relaxed and rich qi field, which evolved over the weekend through stories, movement and meditation.…
Many of you are immersed in summer travels, enjoying life with friends and family. These idyllic long days are prized for deepening connections with loved ones, this vibrant earth and ourselves. Our vacation travels need not interrupt our qigong practice as we can include time for qigong while on the road. Before I address ways…
It is common for students to practice different forms and movements of qigong without remembering to focus the mind into the physical body. Additionally, our minds can wander away from our intention and may forget to focus on integrating healing information. While this is not a problem as the original intent is still alive and…