THE MANY BENEFITS OF QI GONG & SELF CARE

The Many Benefits of Qi Gong and Self Care
 
 Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines movement, meditation, and breathing to improve physical and mental health. Translated from Chinese, qi (pronounced chee) means energy, and gong means cultivation or discipline.
 
 Gentle movement, combined with breath and intention designed to improve the over function and well being of the body and mind. It can help with many facet of the mind/body including but not limited to; calming the mind, reducing stress, increased balance in physical body as well as emotions, improves vitality and memory, helps with strength and stamina, lowers heart rate, improves circulation, strengthens nerves and reduces free radicals in the body.
 
 We explored guided meditation and breathwork known as the microcosmic breath. This is the practice of following the rhythm of the breath starting at the root of the spine and breathing up the back of the body to the crown of the head at the height of the inhale. Then a slight pause and with the exhale the focus moves down the front side of the torso from crown back the root. A slight pause and then the breath and cycle begins again. It is encouraged to visualize the breath as light energy moving up the spine and back down the front side almost in a circular flow around the back and front of the torso from the root of the seat to the crown of the head.
 
 We moved through a simple Qi Gong flow for restoration and vitality. This practice guides us deeper into our self care as we learn that true self care is listening to our body, flowing with its natural cycles and giving it what it needs, especially in times of big transitions or emotional times.
 
 True self care is being present with one’s self and our needs and giving ourselves the grace and love that we so naturally give others. Qi Gong is a practice that helps us be present with and get to know ourselves on a deeper level. These moments of self care, whether big or small, are moments of presence and connection with yourself, truly make all the difference. Prioritizing moments where you put your needs first. This creates connection, flow, stability and safety in your body and your nervous system. It can create peace, magic and joy!