The Magic of Qi Gong

Why practice qigong?

from an article by Sophie Léger

NOTE: Our own Kate Summers also trained with Eva Wong and will be leading a Qi Gong Levels 1 & 2 Weekend Intensive at Westside May 28 -29. All welcome! Register here.

Qigong is a wonderful way to integrate the body in our spiritual journey. Without a healthy body, working on the mind can be challenging.

Qigong is more than exercise; it’s a healing discipline for the body and mind, both gentle and profound, and accessible to everyone. Even people who have physical challenges can participate, as qigong helps to re-introduce mobility and relaxation.

The practice is easy and enjoyable, does not require a major time commitment, and can be done almost anywhere. Once you receive instruction during the program, you can practice at home, on your own. And it is very inexpensive, as no special equipment is required.

On the physical level, qigong is a way to prevent disease and improve health. After a qigong session, people describe their body as feeling revitalized, warm, energized, and relaxed. Numerous studies in China have documented the positive effects of qigong on various cardio-vascular diseases, digestion, kidney functions, bone density, etc. Qigong is also well known to improve blood circulation and strengthen the immune system. Many people have commented on how problems related to fatigue and low-energy have been greatly alleviated.

Most importantly for meditators, qigong helps stabilize the mind. For centuries, in China, qigong has been used as a tool to build the foundation for sitting meditation.

Meditation practitioners who have to sit still for long periods of time can really benefit from qigong. By undoing blockages and allowing a more fluid circulation of the internal energy (or qi), qigong increases our ability to fully inhabit our body and be present at every moment.

Qigong is a happening thing!

Sophie Léger is one of few individuals authorized by Eva Wong to teach her Daoist Qigong lineages. Sophie has taught levels 1-2 throughout North America and Europe. A student of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche since 1990, she has been a certified meditation instructor and teacher in the Shambhala Buddhist tradition for over 15 years and served as Director of the Montreal Shambhala Meditation Centre from 1996 until 2000.