Stated most simply, Qi Gong (CHEE-gong) is breath. It is the art and science of combining breathing, body posture, and a meditative mindset for healing. I am very fortunate to have Dr. Baolin Wu, a Taoist master and monk from the White Cloud Monastary in Beijing, as a teacher. Dr. Wu is a Qi Gong master and utilizes the practice of Qi Gong to replace the body’s Qi with healthy and vital Qi energy from nature.
The most fundamental Qi Gong practice is proper breathing. Without breathing, there is no life. Proper breathing will allow you to prolong your life and combined with Qi Gong practice, you will be able to heal yourself. I will share a lesson from Dr. Wu:
- In the morning, between 7am – 9am, sit in a comfortable chair, facing East.
- Keeping all limbs relaxed, close your eyes and draw in a deep breath through your nose and hold it for as long as you can.
- With your eyes closed, turn your sight inwards and focus on your heartbeat and the Qi flowing through your body.
- Keep your mind calm and clear.
- When you can not hold your breath any longer, release it forcefully through your mouth.
- Repeat 20 times. [This exercise should also be completed in the evening between 7pm and 9pm]
Photo source: Buddha statue (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)