What happens in the class
Christopher starts with an idea from Qigong. The same energy shows up differently in each part of the body. In the mind it appears as thoughts and intuition, in the body as vitality and digestion, and in the middle of the body as emotions and feelings. When energy flows, it tends to be healthier. When it stagnates, it gets murky, and learning to notice where it is stuck is a big part of the practice.
He calls this a mini set for a heavy heart, because the events of the world can weigh us down when we get present with them. The heart and the lungs sit in the same area, so the class works there, with less stretching and strength building than usual.
You begin with shoulder rolls and 'knocking on the door of life' to release the spine, neck and shoulders. Then you use your hands to circulate Qi around the heart, and you close with Embracing the Mountain, shifting your weight from your heels to your toes.
If sadness or heaviness lasts, talk with a doctor or counselor, and see a doctor for chest pain or breathlessness. If you feel unsafe or think about harming yourself, call or text 988 in the US, or your local emergency number.
Questions people ask
What is Qigong for a heavy heart?
It is a set of gentle movements that works with the heart and lung area, where Christopher says sadness, grief and anger sit when energy is not moving well. This class uses shoulder rolls, hand movements around the heart and a moving meditation, Embracing the Mountain.
What is Embracing the Mountain in Qigong?
It is a moving meditation near the end of the class. You shift your weight from your heels to your toes, and Christopher invites you to bring the qualities of the mountain, timelessness, strength and calm, into your heart.
Can Qigong replace help for grief or low mood?
No. If sadness or heaviness lasts, talk with a doctor or counselor, and see a doctor for chest pain or breathlessness. If you feel unsafe or think about harming yourself, call or text 988 in the US, or your local emergency number.
Keep going
If grief or heaviness is part of your week, begin gently with the free class and getting-started guide.
Read more
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Learn Qigong is educational and is not medical advice. If you have a health condition, check with your own practitioner before beginning a new practice.
