Qigong

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What is Qigong?

Qigong is a mindful, meditative practice, encouraging a healthy flow of energy to maintain a healthy mind and body. A sister art, it is an inherent part of Tai Chi that focuses on aligning breath with movement and developing an awareness of your energy flow. Some use Qigong as a stepping stone to Tai Chi.

Why learn Qigong?

If your thoughts are scattered and body tired, Qigong calms and invigorates. It is used to connect body to mind to spirit. It is a worldwide practice, just as popular as Tai Chi. More and more people are recognising the value in this art which has been used by the Taoists for thousands of years for prevention and recovery from illness.

Qigong is an ancient system of exercise created over 3000 years ago by the Taoists in China. Even in those ancient and primitive times, people sought ways to improve their health and longevity. In their observations of life, both on earth and in the heavens above, the Taoists recognised the unending cycle of the seasons, day, night, birth and death, etc, and our dependence on these cycles. They described this constant process of change as “Tao” or “The Way”.

The Taoists recognised that our state of mind and our emotions have a huge influence on our well-being, on how we look after ourselves – or not, depending on how we are feeling. If we are sad, angry, depressed, our bodies will feel the impact. The chi will not flow easily. In fact, the extreme of our emotions, from over-joyed to under-whelmed, and holding on to those emotions for too long, is detrimental to our well-being. Our emotions and our state of mind can physically impede the flow of chi. So creating a happy mindset in a happy body in a happy environment is very important to our health and well-being. Qigong is a part of this system. Its purpose is to unite our mind, body and soul by connecting each through breath, movement and focus.

I was delighted to find Su Rule’s Qigong class in Belgrave. I had enjoyed some Tai Chi training in the past but never found the time or inspiration to commit to a long form and was more interested in Qigong for its direct health benefits. Unable to attend classes for several months, I have been able to continue the Qigong practice at home. I believe it has helped me to remain spiritually centred with good energy and physical flexibility. Su is a wonderfully warm and relaxed person who nevertheless is obviously teaching Qigong and Tai Chi to a high level of professional practice.

Penny Wagstaff

Qigong outside with Su is simply great! The classes are nurturing and taught with experience and detail. I also enjoy the cuppa and socialising afterwards.

Natja Wunsch

A great way to learn Tai Chi and Qigong. Friendly supportive classes for all ages and skill levels. Really glad to be a part of this school. Lots of options and never boring.

Anne Rule (no relation)