Meditation and Qi Gong for Health 

Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese exercise system to maintain a balance of health physically, emotional and spiritually. Based upon Traditional Chinese Medicine, it has the power to improve our mood and outlook on life, help improve joint flexibility reducing pain, increase muscle strength, range of motion and overall balance. It is also a great tool in fighting stress and anxiety. In this class various Qi Gong exercises are explored including Animal Frolics (Crane, Bear, Tiger, Monkey, Deer), The Swimming Dragon, Eight Pieces of Brocade, Tai Chi Ruler, and Seasonal Qi Gong.  Various forms of standing meditation are also introduced which include still and moving meditations that conform to the principles of Yi Chuan.

The Swimming Dragon 

The Swimming Dragon is an ancient Taoist Qi Gong that has the power to improve our health, fitness level and promote general wellbeing. It is practiced by repeating a short cycle of movements specifically designed as a comprehensive care system for the internal organs. The benefits of this movement are improvements in the digestive system and the ability to eliminate waste, improve the breathing process, fortifies the kidneys, relieves neck, shoulder, low back and hip pain by benefitting the spine, nervous system and meridians. Lastly it greatly enhances the body’s ability to relax, reducing stress and the associated ailments. No special equipment is required, just loose comfortable clothes and footwear.

Eight Pieces of Brocade 

An ancient Chinese exercise and fitness system used as an alternate healing therapy (AKA medical Qi Gong). It consists of a series of eight exercises that follow the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is one of the most gentle and effective ways of working with the body, calming the nervous system, healing body, mind and spirit. Eight Pieces of Brocade enables the student to correct physical and energetic imbalances, releases emotions and stress. It is a simple and effective way of directing Qi (life energy) throughout the body and remove blockages that can cause sickness or disease without acupuncture, herbs or massage. No special equipment is required, just loose comfortable clothes and footwear.

Liangong Series 1: Stress, Strains & Sprains

Liangong is a health exercise system that combines orthopedic science and sports medicine.  It was developed in the 1970’s by Dr. Zhuang, one of the top 100 orthopedic physicians in China and a Master of Chinese Martial Arts.   The entire Liangong system is comprised of 3 series of 18 specially designed exercises to enable the practitioner to develop the ability to self heal the body (joints, limbs, organs and bodily functions).

Discomfort or pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, waist, legs and feet are very common.  Whether caused by injury or occupational related hazards or just middle age, it has become something to be tolerated more than addressed.

This class introduces the first series of 18 Liangong exercises to address chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, back, hips, knees, and feet.  The first 6 exercises are for preventing and relieving aching neck and shoulders.  Exercises 7-12 prevent and relieve backache, and the last 6 exercises prevent and relieve hip and leg pain.

Liangong Series 2: Joints & Internal Organs

Liangong series 2 addresses pains in the joints and limbs (arthralgia), inflammation of the tendon sheath where muscle connects to bone (tenosynovitis), tennis elbow, and dysfunction of the internal organs (high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders,  neurosis and emotional distress).

Series 1 is concerned with developing control of the limbs and joints of the limbs, and using them to address pain or injury in the neck, shoulders, back, legs, ankles and feet.  Liangong series 2 goes deeper to address issues in the connective tissue and strengthen the functionality of the internal organs with exercise and self massage.

The first 6 exercises are designed for the joints of the limbs.  Exercises 7-12 are for preventing and healing tendonitis, and the last 6 exercises are for healing and preventing disorders of the internal organs.

Liangong Series 3: Yi Chi Kung 

Liangong series 3 uses the theory and principles of Chi Kung, where breath is matched with specialized movement.  This method of breathing employs deep abdominal breaths while lifting the chest slowly during an inhalation and releasing the lower abdomen while slowly exhaling.   This type of breathing coupled with large and distinct arm movements, helps to expand the intercostal muscles, strengthens the thoracic vertebra and abdominal muscles, increases lung metabolism, and helps promote the recovery of and/or improvement of lung and cardiovascular function.

The 18 exercises that comprise Liangong series 3 Yi Chi Kung are not broken down into sections like the previous 2 series.  While all 18 exercises should be performed for the most effective results, you may pick and choose the ones that work well for you or address a specific need or concern.

Tai Chi Qi Gong 

Would you like to reduce stress while improving your balance and core strength? Tai Chi Qi Gong is an exercise system based upon Traditional Chinese Medicine which is practiced by millions daily for physical, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. It is one of the most gentle and effective ways of working with the body, calming the nervous system, and healing body, mind, and spirit. This class will introduce standing meditation, various qi gong exercises (basic and advanced) and the Yang Style Simplified Tai Chi form, also known as the 24 form or short form. No special equipment is required, just wear loose comfortable clothing and footwear.  Suitable for all especially beginners.

Tai Chi Quan 

Tai Chi Quan is a fist system (Chinese boxing) that blends softness with energetic movement in accordance with the theory of Yin and Yang energies. It is practiced for its power to prevent and cure many diseases and ailments. The slow gradual movements are rooted in ancient traditional Chinese Medicine to help reduce stress, increase balance, core strength and greatly improve overall health. Classes will explore the Relaxed and Calm Standing Meditation form, Qi Gong for strength, balance and flexibility, the Wu Style Tai Chi forms, and 2-person Push Hands drills.  Suitable for everyone regardless of age, gender and even physical condition.

Private Lessons 

Private lessons are available for singles and/or couples who prefer individualized instruction in Qigong and/or Tai Chi Quan. Classes can be tailored to meet your needs.  This type of class setting is also suitable for individuals who are suffering from specific ailments or have specific needs.  Such as those who are struggling with balance issues, recovering from surgery or cancer treatments, and those dealing with Parkinson’s disease or MS.