Qigong

What is Qigong?

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Qigong was founded in China and first heard of around 4000 years ago. Qigong is often called Tai Chi for health in the west, partly because people recognise the term 'Tai Chi' and so have an understanding of what it is. One of my teachers described it to me as the 'mother of Tai chi', which has always stayed with me.

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Shibashi Qigong that you will be learning and developing here, draws from the Yang style of Tai Chi and uses the narrower Wu stance for its health benefits. As a Chen Tai Chi student and a Qigong student, I will also incorporate other sets for diversity.

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Qigong is a way of encouraging the energy flow around our system and improving balance and vitality.In the west we tend to grow up in an individualised society that celebrates independence and material success. As a result over time for many of us, this sense of connection has depleted and many find that something is lacking in their life. This loss of connection leads to a depletion in Qi-life force energy.

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Through Qigong we can re-cultivate this Qi energy flow in our system, and feel more connected to the body and wider Universal energy, which in turn can help us feel more connected in our daily life. 

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As we are often told, we cannot flow from an empty cup. So, Qigong is one way to fill your cup so that you can be present in the world as a truer version of yourself!

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What does Qigong involve? 

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It is a standing mindful practice, like a moving meditation. Through breath and gentle upper body movement, we circulate energy and find grounding and relaxation. No Yoga mat is needed and it can be done seated with slight adjustments. In Qigong we are NOT pushing the body, we are meeting it as it is. 

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In Shibashi we say, if the body can do 100%, bring it back and do 70%. This is a very different approach to the Western exercise culture. It is all about slowing down, and finding your own roots in the world, so you are empowered to cultivate more peace and flow. 

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The key thing to know is that my classes are very accessible and are appropriate for all ages, experience levels and mobility levels. The classes in nature may be less accessible, and I advise reaching out first if you have any concerns. 

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