Feel. It.

Qigong is such a rich, multifaceted practice that it can be a bit confusing at first: movements, meridians, elements, organs, visualizations, emotions ….so much energy in so many forms, what do we pay attention to first?! It’s always good to start by noticing how we are breathing. As we do, the static and confusion in our minds begins to clear and we settle comfortably into the present. We begin to feel a sensation of harmony between our mind, body, and emotions. In this state, our health and well-being are best supported, and our energy battery can be charged. Each Qigong practice begins like this, whether a 2-hour session or a 3-minute energy re-set in the middle of the day. 

For both beginners and more advanced students, here’s the next challenge and it’s one that never ends: in the words of Master Chunyi Lin, “Feel. It.”  Really notice what you are feeling, not what you wish you were feeling, or should be feeling, or used to feel. No. What are you feeling right now, right this moment? Breathe and feel. Breathe and feel. If you’re too distracted to feel, then slow down, or simply stand quietly for a moment. “Listen for the sound of distant rain”, as an ancient Qigong text advises; this puts you in a state of quiet focus. Listen to the sometimes subtle messages your body, heart, or spirit are sending you. Your ultimate healing power lies in listening to those messages with curiosity and compassion, and opening yourself to the limitless supply of good energy flowing all around and through you, offering the qi you need.