Is it appropriate for all fitness levels?

Due to the fact that Qigong can be performed standing or sitting, it is a physical conditioning program that is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The soft, slow, gentle movements of Qigong practice stimulate the body to increase muscular stability, flexibility and range of motion around all joints of the body. One of the many physical benefits of Qigong is the dynamic range of motion that is incorporated into many of the movements. Most of us move through very small ranges of motion throughout our day, and when it comes to R.O.M., “If you don’t use it, you loose it!” The dynamic movements also serve to promote better balance by stimulating the vestibular system of the brain. As we age, joint stability and balance are two of the most important factors in maintaining health and mobility. However, toping the list of its physical benefits is “kinaesthetic awareness” or awareness of your body in space. Qigong develops your awareness of posture and weight distribution and improves your ability to react and respond to external stimulus such as slouching, trips, falls, or loss of balance. All of which help you to move your body through space and life with ease and without accident or injury.

Can qigong help high blood pressure?

Qigong combines relaxed movements with long, slow diaphragmatic breaths. By working the body as a whole, blood is gently moved through every artery and vein of the body ensuring proper and efficient circulation and nourishment of the tissues. By coordinating the movements with long, slow, controlled breaths, the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) is shut off and the parasympathetic nervous (rest, digest, heal) is engaged. This type of breath serves to slow the heart rate and lower the blood pressure. The gentle yet total body cardiovascular stimulation makes Qigong a safe and effective physical exercises for those with or without cardiovascular issues or limitations.

Does qigong lower cortisol levels?

Qigong is quite literally “Moving Meditation”. As with all meditation practices, Qigong has an incredibly calming effect on the central nervous system. As the mind, breath and body are connected to the moment, the parasympathetic nervous system is engaged and the brain releases all sorts of feel good hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals act as our natural opiates, creating a relaxed state which fosters healing on the cellular level. With our opiates flowing, cortisol, which is the stress hormone of the body, naturally decreases. High levels of cortisol can result in sustained elevations of blood sugar, substantial loss of calcium from bones, depression of important immune responses, high blood pressure, loss of muscle mass, increased fat accumulation, and even loss of cognitive function.

Will qigong regulate digestion?

During Qigong practice, an extended diaphragmatic breath is used to connect to the lower stomach area called the “Lower Dantian”. From an eastern perspective, this area houses the deepest and strongest energetic centres of the body. From a western perspective, by pushing the belly out as you breath in, and pulling the belly in as your breathe out, you stimulate three important physiological functions in the body. First, as the diaphragm descends and the stomach expands, the lower lobes of the lungs fill completely resulting in proper oxygenation of the body. Most people tend to breathe only into their upper chest using accessary muscles instead of the diaphragm, resulting in only one third of the oxygen intake or what’s called a “shallow tidal breath”. Second, the descent of the diaphragm causes contractive pressure on the internal organs helping them to squeeze out toxins, allowing them to take in new blood and nutrients. Finally, the oscillating movement of the diaphragm stimulates the digestive track, causing food to move along its path. A process called peristalsis. This has the effect of increased nutrient absorption as well as more effective and complete elimination.

Does qigong help anxiety?

For most people, their mind tends to be trapped in one of two places. Either they are dragging their “past” into the present, leaving them filled with anger, irritability, and stress. Alternatively, they are spiralling into the “future” leaving them consumed with anxiety, worry and overthinking. Just like seated meditation, Qigong uses the soft flowing physical movement combined with controlled diaphragmatic breath to connect the mind to the present moment, where there is only stillness, peace and quiet. It is by connecting to the moment and being “present” that healing of the mind and body can actually take place.