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| Qigong practitioners move in a meditative, calming movement |
Pronounced “Chee Gong”, the meditative movement practice is
an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused
intentions. Often associated with its cousin, Tai Chi (also written Taijiquan),
the awareness of Qigong in Western culture began in the 1950’s and has been
reported to be approximately 2,500 years. However, archaeologists and
historians have discovered qigong-like techniques that are at least five
thousand years old.
Qigong has slowly become more popular in recent years.
According to the Maine Center for Taijiquan and Qigong website, “Taiji &
Qigong practice is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Part of the
resurgence in popularity of this fabulous art can be attributed to increased
cultural exchange, divergence from traditional teaching methods, evolved
scientific understanding of efficacy of methods and growing demand for low cost
holistic wellness modalities.”
Many participate in the practice of Qigong due to the
reported benefits.
“I was motivated to create it [the Qigong class] as a result
of the ‘Healthy Aging Initiative’ happening here in Raymond,” explained
Mary-Therese Duffy, one of the founding members of RHCC. “The research and
recommendations regarding Qigong practice and aging is striking.”
Multiple scholarly articles can be found that verifies
Duffy’s assertion, including scientific studies from Harvard Medical Center and
Yale Medical School.
Popular magazines have also published articles regarding
Qigong, including a Newsweek article published in September 27, 2004 entitled, “The
New Science of Mind and Body.” In that and other magazine articles, the
additional benefits of practicing Qigong include but are not limited to stress
relief, improving asthma, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, chronic fatigue,
fibromyalgia and headaches.
Those who attend the Saturday classes at RHCC include those
who have been practicing Qigong for many years as well as those who are
experiencing it for the first time. Participants who have made the practice a
part of their daily life claim to experience certain benefits.
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| Charlotte Engelman and Scott Sutton |
Scott Sutton from Raymond stated that his practice creates a
level of wellness in his life. “Qigong is taking time to connect my body and
spirit to experience greater wellness, peace and joy in the moment,” he said.
Charlotte Engelman, also from Raymond, who has enjoyed the
practice of Qigong off and on for 20 years states that it helps her face daily
life more calmly. “The centering aspect blocks out the craziness of life and
gives me a calm feeling for the day,” Engelman began. “And when I go out into
the world, I feel I have more strength and stamina to face whatever comes my
way.”
“My practice keeps me mentally grounded, improves my
quality of sleep, and keeps me feeling physically strong and balanced,” stated Rendall
who has been practicing since 2002 and began teaching in 2011.
For those who are experiencing Qigong for the first time or
our new at the practice of Qigong, Rendall calms any apprehensions one might
have. “It's challenging to walk into a room full of strangers and
participate in something that you might not know much about,” began Rendall.
“Every Qigong instructor I have learned from has worked hard to make
participants feel comfortable, they have encouraged people to move with respect
to their own comfort levels, and to have an enjoyable experience. I encourage
everyone who asks me about Tai Chi and Qigong to visit a class to try it out.
In a basic or beginner class, the moves tend to be simple and are practiced
with a slow meditative quality - often people leave class and feel more
relaxed.”
For more information about Qigong (and/or Taiji), contact the
Maine Center for Taijiquan and Qigong at www.mainetaiji.com or call 207 780-9581.
