What is Qigong?
A first typical visual understanding of Qigong is a person, standing or sitting, with a relaxed and peaceful facial expression, moving his / her arms and torso in a graceful, effortless flowing, and circular way. Just watching a Qigong practitioner draws you into a calm state.
Qi (also spelled chi) in Chinese means “vital energy,” gong (or kung), “practice” or “exercise”.Qigong is therefore the technique that allows one to nourish and circulate vital energy to attain physical and psychic well-being.” – ” (Qigong for Women, Dominique Ferraro)
Qigong is a gentle therapeutic exercise and self-help practice. Over thousands of years, the ancient Qi (chi) masters from the East have developed exercises for maintaining a long and healthy life based on their scientific studies and observation of the human being in relation to the nature and the universe.
This ancient health exercise – consisting of specific movements with conscious breathing, healing sounds, and visualizations – - are applied by the Qigong practitioner / student for body-mind harmony, for enhancing physical fitness, and stimulating repair processes in the body during all phases of life.
What can I expect during / from a Qigong Class?
You are either standing or sitting on a chair – depending on your physical condition, and wearing comfortable clothing – following along easily Antoinette’s calming voice and Qigong instructions. You will feel supported by the other Qigong class participants as well. We conclude the class with a relaxation time sitting on the chair or relaxing on a mat and blanket. Typically students feel a deep sense of peacefulness, aliveness, and wellness during and after class.
What are the benefits of a regular Qigong Practice / Class?
- Anybody at any age and in any physical condition, with any minor or serious ailments can do it!
- A regular Qigong practice empowers the students to recognize and apply their own healing abilities.
- It releases stress – the number one reason for physical ailments!
- It stimulates the body’s self-curative abilities
- It increases physical fitness and flexibility in all phases of life.
- It builds core strength – also good for athletes!
- It stimulates blood circulation – the key for health!
- It fortifies the bones and the joints.
- It enhances the functions of organs and glands.
- It restores mental calmness and clarity – increases your focus and productivity at work!
- It restores your vibrancy and natural beauty at any age!
- It maintains our health and inner happiness from a young to a high age!
- Inspires the artists – creative flow is enhanced!
“The purpose of Qigong exercises is to prevent or dissolve blockages of energy, stimulate the circulation, and correct imbalances. The result is in increased psychic and physical well-being and a marked strengthening of immune defenses. With focused practice , any disturbance can be prevented or cured.” Qigong for Women, D. Ferraro)
Possibly keep: (Extra Space / Side Column)
- “Clinical Research….” by Mingtong Gu
- Dr Oz recommendation
- “Qigong is not mystical …” by Mingtong Gu
COST
Price range for an hour class: $8 – $10 (depending on class location)
For an 1 1/2 hour class: $15
For semi-private (2 students) and private Qigong class (1 student): contact Antoinette
