Moving Harmony blog

Just back from the National Qigong Association Annual Conference, which I’ve decided to call “Qigong Central.”  I feel inspired and energized from playing Qigong with some of the world’s best teachers.

One of my favorites was Chungliang Al Huang.  In his electrifying presentation, he said that he never does the same Tai Chi (or Qigong) twice.  So each day, he varies his routine and forms so his practice stays fresh and alive.  Another presenter, William Ting, emphasized the importance of focusing on the details of Qigong forms, such as keeping your shoulders level when moving right or left.  Also presenting was Daisy Lee, who taught me “Lotus Rises from the Water,” which may turn out to be my favorite form!

By the end of the 3 day event, my head was spinning but my body, mind and soul felt charged up with chi.  During the coming weeks I’ll be channeling some of that chi and sharing fresh ideas with folks in my classes.

The Three Intentful Corrections – correct alignment, breath and mind – can be applied to everyday life as well as Qigong practice.  You have probably noticed that taking some deep breaths when stressed makes you feel more relaxed.  Likewise, straightening the posture – especially after sitting or slouching for a long time – can relieve stiffness and fatigue.

Applying mindfulness, the third intentful correction, is a powerful way to get better results from your Qigong and improve everyday life.   When we do Qigong mindfully, we stay focused on the present moment and allow any thoughts that come up to pass through our minds like clouds drifting across the sky.  Mindfulness induces a deep sense of calm and opens the gates to feeling chi.

Without mindfulness, Qigong would be, well,  just another form of exercise.

For more information about Qigong and Tai Chi, and a schedule of local classes, log on to www.MovingHarmony.com.

The “Three Intentful Corrections,” mentioned in my last post, are an essential starting point for every Qigong practice session.

We align ourselves with the forces of heaven and earth, take some deep abdominal breaths and stay present with whatever arises in the present moment.

Proper alignment means having spine erect but relaxed, knees slightly bent, head centered, and shoulders straight but relaxed. The theory is that energy flows more smoothly in a straight line, so the better your posture, the more efficient your chi flow.

Good posture may not be a cure all, but it does help correct bad habits that often lead to chronic aches, pains and fatigue.