Tai Chi Qi Gong

“ Focus and Unwind “

Qi Gong is a holistic powerful discipline that combines slow and flowing movements with deep breathing and attention focused on restoring energy balance in the body. This ancient practice of Chinese origin involves cultivating the body’s vital energy, known as Qi, through various exercises and postures. It improves the flow of energy liberally throughout your body system and releases blockages and stagnant energy for a much improved, dynamic circulation. This promotes increased vitality and oxygenation, with improved energy levels and rejuvenation, regeneration and deep relaxation. It inspires self-confidence, uplifts the mind, releases “feel good endorphins” and can lead to finding a balance, plus stability in the body, which is achieved through strengthening the core muscles and focusing on proper alignment and posture. With its gentle and graceful movements, Qi Gong, based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, offers a unique blend of physical exercise, mental focus and spiritual connection. The harmonization of energy is believed to promote a greater sense of overall well-being, longevity and inner peace.

“ Internal energy is the essence of life ”

Core-Centering : The slow and controlled movements require a strong and stable foundation which is developed through proper alignment and posture. By focusing on maintaining a stable core, you improve your balance, coordination and overall physical stability. This stability extends beyond the physical realm and may also contribute to a sense of emotional and mental stability and integrity. Tai Chi and Qi Gong provide a solid base to feel firmly grounded and connected to the here and now. Through various stances and postures, you learn to establish a solid foundation and a deep-rooted sense of awareness in both physical and mental aspects of life.

The lower Dan Tian is situated about two inches below the navel and a couple of inches inward. It is the primary reservoir of internal energy, associated with physical vitality, stamina, and foundational energy. It serves as a centre for grounding and stability, the centre of gravity. It houses your internal power, essence and your reserve of prenatal Qi. Developing a strong Lower Dan Tian can provide an anchor to help you remain less affected and less emotionally reactive by life’s challenges and fluctuations by responding rather than reacting thus restoring and providing a sense of balance amid chaos. By anchoring yourself, you can foster resilience and core strength, leading to a more centered and resourceful approach to living.

Posture Alignment : Tai Chi and Qi Gong improve your posture and alignment. The spinal column plays a crucial role in transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The exercises focus on loosening and relaxing the spine and the vertebrae which can help improve communication between the brain and body. Deep diaphragmatic breathing with awareness improves focus and relaxation.

The Present Moment : Being in the moment is emphasized by focusing on the present moment, you can let go of worries about the past or future and fully immerse yourself in the present experience. Through consistent practice and meditation, you will enhance your mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall cognitive function and activate and rebalance both hemispheres of the brain.

“ Qi Gong is a way of Being “

In Traditional Chinese Medicine “TCM”, the human body has 12 primary meridians or channels, that correspond to specific organs and functions. This energetic network is a transport system of your vitality, strength, dynamism. The practice of Qi Gong helps to balance energies : filling deficiencies and removing excess. Imbalances occur from deep seated emotions like fear, sadness, anger, anxiety, grief, etc., stress, trauma or injury, organ deficiency or malfunction, diseases, improper diet, lack of exercise, inactivity or can be caused externally such as climate or living conditions. In addition to the 12 regular meridians, there are 8 extraordinary meridians in TCM. These deep channels carry a powerful current and have unique functions. The proper flow of Qi is vital for healthful nourishment.

The idea of “positive” and “negative” poles can be related to the concept of Balance and Harmony : Positive Pole : Represents active, dynamic energy, heat, and outward action. It is often associated with energizing practices or movements, concepts or items that are bright, warm and in motion. Negative Pole : Represents passive, receptive energy, coolness, and inward contemplation. It is often associated with relaxation and restorative practices and concepts that are dark, still and cold. Any given frame of reference can be divided into opposite poles, i.e. a positive pole and a negative pole. This is a foundational concept in Chinese philosophy that describes how seemingly opposite forces are interconnected and interdependent. In TCM, this balance is crucial for health. Benefits :

• Enhances respiratory function and proper oxygenation of the body.
• Increases energy, blood circulation and boosts the immune response.
• It revitalizes body cells, producing a rejuvenating and anti-aging effect.
• Gives strength and flexibility to muscles, joints, tendons and reinforces the bones.
• Improves posture, body alignment, strength and enhances balance and coordination.
• Low-impact movements and contributes to better overall mobility.
• Encouraging cardiovascular fitness and recovers and nourishes the core.
• Strengthens the nervous system and deeply tones and relaxes the entire body.
• Enhances cognitive function, mental clarity, emotional regulation and focus.
• Favors the connection with the present and a joyful attitude towards life.

It is important to note that Tai Chi and Qi Gong practice is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. You should always consult your healthcare professional and medical doctor regarding any specific health concerns or conditions.

Music : All our classes and practice sessions are conducted to the background of relaxing music such as classical music from piano, cello, violin, guitar…and indigenous flute music. It promotes an atmosphere with positive vibes and harmonic frequencies enabling you to unwind.

Classes/ Workshops/ Sessions : Weekly Tai Chi Qi Gong classes are held every Monday from 4pm till 5.30pm. We practice many different movements, postures, Qi Gong sequences and Tai Chi forms. Self-Care Qi Gong workshops : more details regarding these workshops will be provided later. Energy Rebalancing sessions are available at my home in a quiet serene space or remote at your own home, where you may feel more comfortable to receive and benefit from induced, deeply relaxation.

In our school we have 2 spaces to practice. A very quiet outdoor space surrounded by nature and a beautiful serene indoor room.