E.WagnerHolisticHealth

                      Blog #36: Some Questions about Qi Gong Answered

We just finished the seventh blog on Chiropractic, and now, I am going to share seven monthly blogs about Qi Gong.

Q:  What is Qi Gong anyway?

A:  Qi Gong includes many different types of exercises, some done standing, sitting, moving, or lying down, and all are geared to improving health and vitality by improving blood and energy circulation, calming the mind, and sometimes even helping internal organs function more effectively.

Q:  Can anyone do qi gong?

A:  Just about everyone can practice qi gong.  The more vital energy a person has and the more stable their mind is, the more benefit they will receive.  If a person is not able to focus their mind, they may not be able to benefit from qi gong.  It is also helpful if the person can stand and walk.

Q:  Is Qi Gong difficult to learn and practice?

A:  Most Qi Gong is fairly easy to learn and practice; there will be a period of several weeks or months during which skill is developed.  Eventually the person achieves competence in the exercise.  With greater competence come greater benefits.  The same is true for any type of exercise or discipline. 

Q:  Will this blog teach specific Qi Gong exercises?

A:  Yes, even this first blog will teach an exercise. 

This exercise can help some people fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly.  I say some, because if they are suffering from a serious illness, sleep apnea, asthma, PTSD, or some other problems, they may require additional help to solve sleep issues.  Hypnosis and self-hypnosis, improved nutrition, weight loss, and some life-style choices, such as not watching television or working on a computer within 2 hours of bedtime, may be necessary before a person achieves improved quality of sleep. 

Here is the exercise:

Lie supine (on your back) in bed, or wherever you intend to sleep right after this exercise.  Make sure you are comfortable and that all screens which can emit light and images and all equipment which can emit sounds are turned off.  Cell phones should be removed from the room.  Close your eyes and inhale deeply, starting from the soles of your feet, and bring the breath all the way up to your clavicles (collar bones).  Then exhale, sending the breath out, down your chest, abdomen, thighs, legs, and finally out through the soles of your feet.  As you breathe, you are relaxed.  When you inhale, your mouth is closed, and when you exhale, your lips are slightly parted and your teeth are very lightly touching.  Exhaling, make the sound heeee, or hseee.  The sound should be silent or almost silent, although you will feel it in your body.  Do this at least three times, and as many more times as you like.  Eventually, let yourself drift off to sleep. 

This blog’s offer:  feel free to email or call me with any questions about this exercise.