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WHAT IS QIGONG?
According to Chinese Medical theory Qi is everywhere. It is the animating power that flows through all living things.
Qigong is the art of cultivating and nourishing this energy.
When Qi is blocked, disease or disharmony set in. This can manifest itself either physically or psychologically. The aim of Qigong is to correct the resulting imbalances and restore body and mind to its natural state/equilibrium.
Qigong is easy to learn and the movements are simple, often inspired by the forms of animals or nature. Each movement has an intention of moving chi within our body.
Qigong is an invaluable component of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is linked to Acupuncture and Shiatsu as it uses the same conceptual framework of the meridian system [channels] through which energy flows. Qigong is also associated with Taoist and Buddhist philosophies and practices.
Qigong has many benefits and with regular practice, it
~Helps increase and preserve energy [chi]
~Promotes suppleness and balance
~Develops strength and stamina,
~Is calming and meditative,
~Strengthens the immune system
~Alleviates fatigue
WHAT TO EXPECT IN A CLASS:
Each session will begin with a warm up. This helps to
~open and mobilise joints,
~increase circulation and energy flow, and
~encourage a softening of tension held in the body.
Forms are practiced in a meditative way, helping to calm the body and still the mind. They include:
~Exercises for opening and mobilising the body and joints,
~Slow movement exercises,
~Walking forms,
~Static postures,
~Meditation.
Qigong is open to all levels of fitness as you will determine your own pace in the class.
It is best to wear loose clothing while practicing Qigong.
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