Qi Gong

I've started taking Qi Gong lessons from Ryan at Wisdom Traditions. Qigong literally means "the skill of moving energy". Practioners of qigong experience their body's energy in a way that they can heal the areas where their energy is blocked. The beauty of qigong lies in the fact that it does not require any special equipment and the movements are gentle so that even patients with severe physical limitations can practice this meditative exercise. There are sitting and even reclining forms that can be undertaken by those with acute physical limitations.
Although the movements appear very simple, a 30 minute qigong session can leave one feeling calm but highly energized. A regular qigong practice will not only have health benefits but will also bring about positive change in many other areas of one's life.

In his latest book, YOU Staying Young, Dr. Mehmet Oz recommends qigong two or more days a week, stating "If you want to live to 100...do qigong." (The Oprah Show 11/1/07)

Health Benefits & Effects:

*Boosts the immune system and enhance the body’s ability to recover from illness and injury
*Lowers blood pressure and increases ability to deal with the effects of stress *Decreases asthma and allergy reactions
*Enhances mental acuity, concentration and ability to focus
*Accelerates the metabolism and decreases need for sleep

New York Times (April 5, 2007) "The face of exercise is changing in America. Instead of relentlessly pursuing a sculptured physique, people are chasing longevity, stress reduction and improved health through mind-body practices like qigong."
Journal of American Geriatric Society concluded (Nov. 1995): “practicing …regularly may delay the decline of cardio-respiratory function in older individuals.”
Men’s Health (Mar/Apr 1993): (Qigong) teaches inner strength while toning muscles, increasing flexibility, and boosting immune power.”
America Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (June 1991) stated that (qigong) is “safe for rheumatoid arthritis patients” and is a weight bearing exercise that “has the potential…of stimulating bone growth and strengthening connective tissue” (preventing osteoporosis).

How often should I practice and how long should a session last?

First thing in the morning for an hour is ideal, but realistically not always possible. A fifteen or twenty minute session in the morning and another like session in the evening is a good compromise on busy days, but some qigong is better than none and even five or ten minutes interspersed at convenient times throughout the day will provide benefit.