We all know that exercise is beneficial for optimal health but even the thought of doing cardio or aerobics can be daunting if you have health issues. Exercise can feel impossible for people with chronic pain or serious health conditions. How can one find an exercise routine that doesn’t make them feel worse?
The modern-day concept of exercise tends to make us think of running on a treadmill, sweating profusely, and gasping for breath. Society preaches, “No pain, no gain” and promotes the idea that if you are not absolutely falling over after a workout, you didn’t push your body hard enough. This all or nothing mentality is difficult to maintain long-term and can even exacerbate health issues for people with chronic conditions.
Fortunately, ancient healing wisdom has provided a solution for this. Holistic medicine teaches us that optimal health involves allowing the body to rest and repair itself. Finding balance in mind, body and spirit will not happen if you are stressing your body and staying in toxic mental patterns. This is one reason why holistic healers recommend exercise practices such as Qigong.
What is Qigong?
Qigong is an ancient Chinese system of meditative movements that combine breathing techniques, slowly flowing body movements and practicing a mindset of serenity and balance. It is a relaxing exercise style designed to soothe the body and calm the mind. Unlike most cardio packed popular American exercise routines, participating in a session of Qigong can actually lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
One of the biggest risks with chronic health conditions and exercise is overexertion, which can render a chronic illness patient bedridden or hospitalized. Qigong is especially beneficial for people with chronic health conditions who struggle with exercise intolerance. The movements, breathing techniques and mindfulness practices do not put the body into a stress response like most exercise regiments do. On the contrary, Qigong allows the body to enter a state of restorative repair. It is low impact, does not induce excess sweating or cause an excessive elevation in heart rate. The movements can be practiced sitting in a chair, standing, and can be modified to a person’s physical ability level. Mindfulness and breathing techniques can even be performed lying down comfortably.
What health conditions can benefit from Qigong?
Research has shown it can have a profoundly beneficial impact on people with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. The Department of Health and Behavior Studies at Columbia University reported the following research findings,
“Qigong practice may specifically help arthritics who suffer from excess muscle tension that can cause pain and possible excess joint compression, as well as fostering a state of reduced anxiety and depression, while heightening peace of mind and life quality.”
Most patients with respiratory conditions can also perform Qigong. Many people with conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema or asthma reported their breathing actually improved after consistent practice.
The Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine in Beijing, China published a study on Qigong’s benefits for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that concluded, “In our meta-analysis, we found that over a period of 6 months, Qigong resulted in an improvement in lung function, exercise capacity, and patients’ quality of life.”
Research also suggests that Qigong may be potentially useful for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infections. Qigong helps the body exit the fight or flight state, which reduces the production of stress hormones which inhibit the immune system. Out of the fight or flight state, the body is then able to restore itself and fight off infections easier.
What to expect at a Qigong Class?
Qigong classes are typically very laid back and taught by a well-mannered, skillfully trained teacher. Here at Lotus Blossom Clinic, our Qigong instructor Jaysun is a kind soul who will slowly guide you through the breathing techniques, mindfulness exercises and meditative movements.
When you walk into Lotus Blossom’s Qigong Session, you will hear the calming, ambient music and be greeted warmly by Jaysun!
JaySun is a teacher, an energy healer, an instructor of Tai Chi and Qigong, and a Synergy coach. He is a certified Psychosynthesis Coach from the Psychospiritual Institute. He is a certified Tai Chi instructor from the Stone Monkey school of Tai Chi.
JaySun’s mission is to see everyone living at their highest and best state through realizing their own “synergy”. This Synergy is found when we realize the innate beauty and power that already reside within us. They are unlocked through a process of self-awareness and understanding, conscious breath, and movement. JaySun acts as your guide and advocate, to support and welcome you to a new state of being where you live your highest and best potential, your own synergy!
Where to take a Qigong Class?
Our classes are held in Suite 3 at 6710 Winkler Rd in Fort Myers, Florida,
In 2023, classes are offered on Wednesdays from 1:00pm-2:00pm. Cost is $15 per session.
Full class details available HERE
What do I wear to a Qigong Class?
Lose fitting, comfortable clothing. Some people prefer to practice Qigong barefoot or with yoga shoes/slippers.
For a more detailed explanation of Qigong, check out the video below from our Weekday Wellness LIVE show on our facebook page!
We invite you to come try a Qigong session with Lotus Blossom Clinic!
This post has been brought to you by Lotus Blossom Clinic and is not a replacement for medical care or advice. Do not start any exercise regiment without first consulting your healthcare provider.
