Seven Stars Wild Goose Qigong Manchester

This time of year the earth's energy is at it's lowest, so it's not surprising that we may prefer to curl up in front of the telly instead of getting out there and braving the weather and attending a class. Our body's energy levels are also at their lowest and we are more inclined to feel tired. If we don't boost our energy levels in some way then our immune system also suffers and we become more susceptible to colds, flu and other bugs and viruses that are flying around our environment.

This time of low energy is why we boost our lives in different ways, the lack of natural sunlight has led to the festvals of light celebrated at this time by many different religions to save us from sinking even lower, the lights beckon us to get out of our rut and lift our spirits in joy and celebration. The act of giving presents is also designed to keep us going with something to look forward to in the long cold dark months before Spring.

Qigong exercises are physically uplifting as any stagnant areas of the body are gently nudged into flowing movement. The body awakens and regular daily practise for just a few minutes can restore energy levels, release endorphins that create a sense of happiness and maintain a healthy immune system to keep those bugs at bay!

It's not difficult, but it does require an act of will. Practitoners will readily agree that the benefits far outweigh the initial reluctance to make the first move. After just a few lessons the body feels lighter and brighter and as you skip down the street watching others trudge through the weather with backs bent and shoulders rounded then you realise the value of having been taught something that will last you the rest of your life. It's rejuvenating.

After jst a few weeks many of my students will say something like, 'This should be taught in schools and hospitals, everyone should know this.' But of course it is not for everyone. These days people don't want to have to work too hard for their rewards, they want an easy ride, they prefer to take a tablet or a potion to alter the chemical balance in their bodies almost instantaneously and then get back to the t.v. set. Qigong is natural, it requires just a little effort and takes a little longer to have an effect, but will re-energise your body, sharpen your mind and calm your emotions. Oh, and I nearly forgot to say that when your energy is running efficiently through the channels (or meridians) then the body temperature is spread to the extremities so you don't feel the cold as much. So many benefits for just a few minutes a day,

One lady aged over 60 reported that the day after her second visit to the Rack House class she suddenly realised that she was moving more freely than usual as she went down the stairs in the morning. Her stomach felt light, her energy was up and she felt happy in a way that she used to feel happy when she was younger.

    'It was like a wave of happiness just flooded through me' she said. As she practises more this feeling will increase. Well done to her for finding the rejuvenating effects of qigong so quickly!

Another lady, also over 65, could only stand/exercise for 10-15 minutes taking several breaks to sit down throughout the lesson, but this week she only sat down once, and that was after 50 minutes. Again, the more she practises the stronger she will become. Well done!

Dr. Bingkun Hu has just returned to California after running two brilliant seminars in Bolton.

The first weekend covered Wild Goose 1: 1st 64 movements, which many of my students have been practicing for a few years. Dr. Hu refreshed the form and sprinkled his seminar with little gems of knowledge about the the movemernt of energy and it's purpose for our development and improved health. His expertise in the way the body works led to individual  work with each pupil  to help gain the most efficient use of the body, opening the meridians and feeling the flow of energy.

The second weekend covered Soft Palms, which is a much shorter form, yet more advanced, though beginners learnt it with ease. Some students had been practising internal arts for a long time, but commented with excitement that this was the first time they actually felt the energy. Again, the meditation practise enhanced the practise and led to a greater understanding about the different meridians.

Dr.Hu spent the week visiting different classes (see the link to Sue Johnston) and planning his visit to the UK for next year. He will be visiting the Rack House class and running a seminar in South Manchester, Make sure you all keep the end of July/beginning of August free!

Dr Hu's teaching style is informal, relaxed and fun, putting everyone at ease, If you have never tried qigong before then come along to one of the classes - you'll be glad you did!