There are so many benefits to moving the body slowly and practicing Qi Gong is a wonderful way to do this.
The movements are slow and gentle and while it might look like not much is happening, there’s a lot going on.
Not only are we working the body, without stress or strain, we are working the mind too.
It takes a lot of focus to slow the breath and move slowly with control. A lot of movements cross the midline which can be very challenging and a great work out for the brain.
There are so many benefits from this practice and I’m just going to list a few:
• Enhanced mind/body connection
• Improved posture and balance
• Strong immunity system
• Better sleep
• Increased strength and power
• More energy and less stress
Most importantly, moving in this way increases our Qi (Chi).
Qi is a mysterious thing and hard to explain. Qi is our lifeforce, it is the mysterious vital energy that keeps the heart beating and the lungs breathing.
Qi is like the wind, we can feel it, but we can’t see it. I like to think of it as the Wi-Fi of the body and we want our body and mind to be in a place that receives optimal signal, all the time.
Practicing the beautiful slow movements of Qi Gong, that mirror nature, is the best way to keep the Qi flowing.
There are very few injuries associated with Qi Gong and everyone can do it.
Think of a cat grooming itself, focused slow, controlled and purposeful with the outcome of good health and wellbeing.
Image Nishaan Ahmed - Unsplash