Qi Gong is a powerful system of ancient healing that involves a mixture of Chinese medicine, philosophy and movement. It incorporates the art and science of breathing, gentle motion, meditation, and visualization to cleanse, strengthen, and circulate the life (qi) energy throughout the body. This practice is also believed to awaken one spiritually and also facilitates the development of human potential. A regular qi gong practice can improve the health of body, mind and spirit alike. The fluid motions of the exercise aid in strengthening the muscles, while improving flexibility and suppleness, and also help to revitalize the body. The ease of the practice helps to create a sense of peace and tranquillity whereby the mind is quieted and at rest; calmness is allowed to take over. Spiritually, the practice helps to open you up to your full potential and authentic self by connecting you to the divinity within and without. It allows you to tap into the energy that envelops you and move it through your entire being to awaken and uplift you.

The central focus of the qigong practice is the control and manipulation of the qi, the life force or energy. This energy exists in all things and sustains life. By working with this energy, a practitioner is able to interact with the surrounding elements, incorporating their energy to balance the personal qi within. It is by balancing the opposing yin and yang energies and forces that one is able to achieve an inner balance and optimal health.

Through the practice of qi gong, one is able to open and strengthen the heart. The heart has a connection to all parts of the body so it is integral to keep it healthy and thriving. When the heart is failing, all other organs and areas of the body will fail. In return, when other parts of the body are suffering, the heart will weaken and suffer as well. Because of this important relationship, keeping the heart happy is key. A method used in qi gong to maintain a happy and healthy heart is the Inner Smile. By using the heart sound and breath work, one is able to connect to the heart and thus also connect to the rest of the body as well.

“The Inner Smile centres and calms the heart. How can you keep your heart open to all the ups and downs of life? The practice of loving acceptance is essential to keeping centred in these times of accelerated change. The Inner Smile meditation is a way to make friends with the spiritual and physical intelligence of your vital organs, from which your emotions arise. Feel how your body smiles back! Even your chemistry will change and become more balanced.” ~ Minke de Vos

By supporting the health of your heart, mind, and body with qi gong you can also grow the love in your life. The movements used in the practice will stretch and stimulate the organ meridians, particularly the heart, kidneys and lungs, and the healing sounds will help to liberate stuck emotions. This will free your heart to welcome in more love and healing energy and in turn create a happier, healthier and more loving you.