The simplest thing is often the hardest to do

Translating the thoughts from my mind onto paper feels deceptively simple to the point where I question my ability to articulate them. Strangely enough, I have found myself erasing and re-writing these very words countless times, grappling with the notion that the information I wish to convey is already ingrained within us all.  Yet, in moments of introspection I'm I'm confronted with the reality of my personal journey – a journey that has repeatedly led me back to one fundamental truth.

Qi is life. 

As humans, particularly those of us who have studied the internal arts, we possess these simple truths yet we find ourselves yearning for complexity.  Strikingly, the most challenging endeavor for us is to slow down, attune to our internal rhythms, and engage in the necessary healing.

I, too, am no exception. On countless occasions I've retraced my steps to this remarkable ancient practice of cultivating my personal energy with the intent of becoming stronger, clearer and more potent. When this practice of Qi Gong is integrated, the reservoir of energy available to us is nothing short of extraordinary.

The nature of Qi

When you cultivate your qi, you transform into a more potent and empowered version of yourself.  The essence of qi lies in its propensity to flow into available spaces.  When there is a vacuity in our energy we might inadvertently absorb Qi from our clients, family and friends.  While this may seem advantageous, it could actually involve the Qi they are dispelling and that is not beneficial for us. A regular practice of Qi Gong on a professional level may lead you to effortlessly engaging in healing work with your clients, resulting in remarkable outcomes.  By incorporating Qi Gong into your routine before seeing clients, you will observe a reduced impact from their 'energy leaks' as you have replenished your own energy prior to the session. 

What I love most about Qi Gong

While I identify as a regular, frequent and committed meditator in my mind, the reality can be quite different. When life is flowing smoothly and progress is underway, I tend to slip away from my consistent practices—a common inclination shared by many. This natural ebb and flow, however, can lead to unexpected challenges. For those of us who are still mastering the art of meditation (and I'm here to admit I'm one of them), facing those trying moments can seem like an insurmountable hurdle when it comes to sitting down on the meditation cushion and calming the racing mind.

This is where having a Qi Gong practice comes in

Amidst those challenging moments, the simplest path often involves initiating movement and attuning in to the breath.  Instead of perceiving Qi Gong as a form of exercise, consider it a way to ground, connect and center ourselves.  Shift your perspective away from fixating on the challenges before us, redirecting it inwards to amplify the breath's ability to impact every cell in the body. Synchronizing movement with the breath rhythm grants our body systems the chance to recalibrate, fostering a sense of security in the pace that aligns with our individual needs.

The hard truth

Sometimes going fast is just a way to bypass the challenges we encounter. Regardless of identity, background, intuition, skillset, or education, the urge to forge ahead when things spiral out of control seldom offers a remedy.  Instead, the solution consistently lies in decelerating and reestablishing a connection. Amidst the whirlwind of familial responsibilities, mortgage payments, and clinic demands, it's easy to become entangled in a web of obligations. With a hundred tasks awaiting our attention, how can we feasibly carve out a mere five minutes to engage in a breathing exercise?

How can we cultivate a regular Qi Gong practice?

At first glance, it appears to be a straightforward inquiry, yet for some, it evokes a complex response. This marks the initiation of genuine effort! As humans, our days often brim with tasks, leaving no room for additional endeavors. It's precisely here that introspection becomes paramount. We must ask ourselves pivotal questions such as "Do I genuinely believe in the efficacy of this medicine?" or "Can Qi Gong truly transform my life?" The challenge lies in consistently setting aside time for daily Qi Gong practice. My recommendation is to begin modestly, committing to just one practice a day. As routine takes hold, you can consider integrating a complete class or engaging in practice once or twice a week, tailoring it to your lifestyle's demands.

Lately, my journey has led me to collaborate with an esteemed Qi Gong instructor, Fabrice Piche, renowned for his extensive studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine. His profound insight into Ancient Systems, coupled with his remarkable talent for translating this knowledge, sets him apart. I'm thrilled to share with you a video he has generously offered: "Advanced Shaolin Qi Gong Exercises." This video is an opportunity for you to engage and explore.

Advanced Shaolin Qi Gong Exercises

Qi Gong is a cumulative practice, gradually transforming you over the span weeks months and years. Embracing this practice consistently will lead to a noticeable evolution in your being. And if ever you falter in maintaining the routine, remember that all you need to do is rise and recommence! The remedy is as straightforward as that. 

I encourage you to embrace this training and would love to hear your feedback. Your insights are so valuable!

If you are curious about becoming a QI Gong teacher, or are a practitioner of East Asian Medicine and would like to take your practice into another level, Fabrice will be offering both a Qi Gong Teacher Training as well as a Medical Qi Gong training starting in September 2023.

CLICK HERE to receive more information about these upcoming programs