Qigong (often spelt Chi Kung) is a powerful type of health exercise. It is based on repetitions of very precise sets of movements, specifically designed to benefit health on many different levels.

Qigong is easy to learn and enjoyable to do. Even a few minutes of practise can have an invigorating and rejuvenating effect. Regular practice brings about a deep strengthening effect for the whole body and its various systems (nervous, digestive, respiratory, skeleton-muscular, hormonal, gynaecological, etc). Its ability to help in healing a large variety of chronic and acute injuries and illnesses has been the subject of various research programmes led by the Chinese medical authorities.

The aim of Qigong is to promote the movement of Qi (energy) in the body; this is done by opening certain gates and stretching and twisting energy channels. A key point in Qigong practice is relaxation and deep breathing, both of which are prerequisites to allow Qi to flow.

Some Qigong movements are very gentle, others more vigorous. Some movements are very large and expansive, others are more subtle, almost imperceptible. All are different and have a very specific effect on body and mind. The deeper one practises, the more one can understand the purpose of each movement, allowing the Qigong practice to become ever more enjoyable.

Suzanne Cayless, a past Green Prescription participant talks through her experience:

“I was privileged to meet Marie Laure and join some of her classes when she lived in France. She led our class in discovering the early stages of a beautiful Qi Gong system, which weaves together ancient practises and wisdom with modern knowledge. She led us through gentle physical movements combined with mind activities, which magically restored balance and harmony in my body and mind. It was amazing to find after the first session that I was so at peace within myself that I could laugh and make little jokes with my husband once again.

From the very first session, a heavy depression in me lifted, and I was able to really enjoy life again for the first time in years.

From those early beginnings I have been inspired to learn much more about this system and underlying philosophy, and I now practise every day, slowly building more and more peace and harmony within myself with my family, community, and the earth.  This process brings me a sense of wellbeing, that I have never experienced before, in my entire life.”

For further information or if you would like to try the classes, check out the following website https://www.livestronger.org.nz/home/find-class/find-a-class-near-you/

At Sport Northland we exist to enrich people’s lives through play, active recreation and sport and one of the ways we do this is through Green Prescription and Community Strength and Balance classes where we support people on their journey.  If you would like some support with your activity goals, give us a call on phone 0800 GET ACTIVE …..we are here to help!