Transmute energy with Qigong
I am always eager to explore new meditative techniques and yoga practices that elevate my spirit, enhance my serenity, and help me navigate the turbulence of everyday life.. During the pandemic, I discovered Kundalini yoga and committed to a 60-day practice for mental clarity. This journey proved transformative, helping me stay grounded and cultivate patience.
Recently, I came across another fascinating practice, Qigong, through my favorite yoga platform, Glo. Qigong is an ancient Chinese discipline rooted in the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which translates to “life force” or energy. Combined with “Gong,” meaning “mastery,” Qigong represents the mastery of life force energy as it moves through the body’s 12 meridians.
The primary goal of Qigong is to unlock trapped or stagnant energy within these meridians, allowing it to flow freely. This practice can bring a sense of calm and mental clarity while promoting overall wellness and potentially preventing illnesses. Qigong achieves this through slow, controlled movements, stillness, and focused breathwork.
You may have seen groups of people practicing Qigong in parks or outdoor spaces, performing what looks like slow, deliberate movements as if moving the air. While Qigong can be practiced anywhere, doing it outdoors—barefoot on grass—offers the added benefit of grounding. However, practicing indoors on any surface is equally effective.
Qigong works by prompting stagnant energy to flow through the body.
Active and Passive Qigong
Qigong practice can be categorized into two types: active and passive.
Active Qigong: This type leverages the Yang, or active energy. It involves repeating gentle, flowing movements while synchronizing them with breathwork. These movements stimulate blood flow, release stagnant energy, and return it to the earth, which is believed to have cleansing properties. Active Qigong also enhances muscle strength, balance, and spatial awareness.
Passive Qigong: Rooted in Yin, or passive energy, passive Qigong focuses on stillness and breathwork. This type emphasizes maintaining a good upright posture while using traditional meditation techniques to guide energy throughout the body. All the work is internal, fostering deep calm and focus.
Both types of Qigong promote relaxation, mental clarity, and focus. They may also help reduce inflammation and support overall health, although more scientific research is needed to validate these benefits. Like any practice requiring mental discipline, the key to unlocking Qigong’s full potential lies in regular and consistent practice.
After engaging in practices like Qigong or meditation, I often enjoy a warm cup of herbal tea, such as lavender tea, or a calming latte like Tusol’s blend with cocoa, reishi, and ashwagandha. This ritual complements the serenity and focus cultivated during these sessions, leaving me refreshed and centered.
If you’re seeking a way to enhance your mental clarity, reduce stress, and connect with your inner energy, Qigong might be the perfect addition to your wellness routine. Give it a try and experience the harmony it can bring to your mind, body, and spirit.
Try it and let us know what you think!
