Meet Qigong: The Movement Trend That’ll Make You Feel Good

Feeling good may sometimes feel like a remote dream. As we explore the wellness arena, eastern medicine is influencing our society. Rising in popularity is the ancient Chinese practice of qigong. “Qi” means life force energy and “gong” means work or cultivation. So qigong means the cultivation of our energy.

Qigong is not considered a religion, but a healthy way of harmonizing the mind and body to create wellness. The ultimate goal is to improve the flow of energy (qi) through the body so you feel better, more balanced and less stressed. It is a preventative and restorative way for you to be empowered to improve your health.

As people discover qigong, they are drawn to the practice and how it makes them feel plus the proven benefits for health and wellness. Qigong uses the basis of meridians, energy flow, self-massage and breath work to keep energy moving and flowing. Qigong is a way for people to integrate and become involved in their health. For example, when I feel run down or like I’m getting a cold, I do qigong to boost my immune system. It’s a great way to be proactive about your health.

It’s easy to learn, can be done by anyone, at any age, anywhere or at any fitness level. There is no special equipment needed. Qigong may be done standing, seated for those that are elderly or have injuries, or in bed or on a mat.

How do you do it? Mainly it consists of slow flowing movements focused on breath, alignment and awareness of what is going on in ours bodies in the current moment. A typical class may start with breathing to calm, awareness of the body and bringing energy to center. Focus on warming up the major joints of body (neck, spine, shoulders, hips, knees, ankles, feet, hands) follows and then practice movements that tonify, purge and strengthen the body while releasing stale, stuck, stagnant energy in the physical body. The ultimate goal is to bring yin and yang energy into balance. During class, students request movements to help if they experience digestive issues, cold symptoms, sadness, tightness in hips, headaches, insomnia etc.

We learn through experiences that we have the potential to heal ourselves by listening to the messages we receive from our bodies. We cultivate qi and feel the impact of tingling, warmth or listen to the sounds of snap, crackle and pop and hear that it’s working. As students race into class feeling harried, tired and weak a common statement is “I really need this today.” As class finishes, these same students, smile, move slowly feeling energized but calm - it’s the best feeling!

In this world, where everyone is stressed and anxious, whether you’re a college student or in your 80’s, qigong is the perfect practice to bring your body and mind into health. Weekly qigong classes are held at the Braintree Community Arts Center, 1969 Washington Street, Braintree, MA 02184

Additionally, Qigong for Inner Peace Teacher Training is scheduled for the Fall for those interested. Visit Yoga Depot’s website for schedule and more information.