DFCI Zakim Center
Qigong, Tai Chi & Meditation to Reduce Stress (45 min)
28 Jan, 2022
Free the skeleton from stress with deep breathing and meditation
In this 45 minute class, we will first free the upper body skeleton (neck, shoulders, arms, and wrists) and then we will free the lower back while stimulating the lungs and massaging, through movements, the internal organs. We will stretch the ribs and lung area while breathing deep and emptying the mind. We will practice standing meditation (Yi Chuan) with elbows over our heads and breathing deep while evoking the spirit. We will stretch the neck to six different angles with the goal of increasing the range of motion, if needed, or to maintain the full range, if you still have it. Then we will work on freeing the most stubborn group of muscles in our body, the hamstrings, which will also help reduce stress on the knees and lower back. We will finish with twisting and rotating to continue freeing the lower back while stimulating movement in the digestive organs.
Some of what we will learn and practice:
Hold the Heaven, The Rainbow, Four Points Touch the Wall, The Pretzel, Look to the Left/Look to the Right, Emperor/ Empress Position, Stretch the Neck/12 O’clock/1 O’clock and 11 O’clock, Shoulder Circles, One leg Up, Chair Twist
Most exercises can be practiced sitting, standing, or lying down.
Tags: Breathing, Chi Kung, Healing, Mindfulness, Relaxation