FAQs

What is the difference between Tai Chi and Shibashi Qigong?

• Tai Chi is a sequence of flowing movements. Tai Chi means infinite. We will focus in tai chi on improving intention and health. We will include positive self talk for each move within the sequence.

• Shibashi Qigong is a set of repeated movements. Qigong means cultivating energy. We will focus in Qigong on meridians, acupressure and incorporates reflexology and aromatherapy for wellbeing.

• Both tai chi and qigong are great forms of exercise to reset after a bad day and nurture emotional resilience to everyday challenges.

• Both foster dignity and soothe at times of illness, injury, grief and life transitions.

Who can practice it?

Anyone can practice Tai Chi and Qigong, regardless of age or fitness level. You can do Qigong sat down or standing. There is no special clothing or equipment needed.

How does it help with balance, flexibility & strength?

Regular practice improves body awareness and strengthens muscles and increases movement range, reducing fall risks. The use of different sides of the body (cross-lateral movements) also means both sides of the brain communicate and neural pathways strengthen.

Can I relieve stress?

Yes, the slow movements calm the mind and ease anxiety effectively. We also know that when we slow our breath down, the stress hormone Cortisol reduces.

Is Tai Chi & Qigong good for sleep?

Practicing before bed can help you relax and enjoy deeper, better sleep.

Will Tai Chi & Qigong boost my mood?

Yes, we know with behavioural activation that exercise like tai Chi and Qigong helps us to gain reward and motivation to do other things. The breath work means the motivation hormone Seratonin can make the blood flow journey from the gut area to the brain, unhindered by Cortisol.

Can Tai Chi & Qigong help with pain?

Being low impact movement, both Tai chi and Qigong help the mind to relax and the body to reduce tension. The gentle increased blood flow helps with elimination of inflammatory by products.

Will it improve my work performance?

Tai Chi and Qigong are restorative activities, which can be deemed mindfulness in motion. Being present helps develop attention and presentation skills, decision making and prioritising. Tai Chi and Qigong are the perfect antidote to the 'always on' business culture, enabling you to recharge.

Can it help menopause symptoms?

Yes, research shows Tai Chi and Qigong can help sleep, reduce anxiety and depression, lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease and support bone mass density. Traditionally, Chinese medicine views menopause as a time when energy is impacted. Qigong aims to help strengthen kidney energy (cool flushes), release liver energy (frustration) and ground the lower Dan Tien AKA 'fiery cauldron' - an energy reservoir below the naval. The calming nature of tai chi and Qigong enable stress hormone cortisol and anxiety to reduce, which protects against low mood.

Particular gentle movements and slow breathwork promote the lowering of blood pressure, improved circulation and boost heart health.

Tai Chi & Qigong helps Cardiovascular health!

Is Tai Chi & Qigong helpful for breathing?

Yes, the movements are gentle on the joints and Qigong can be done seated. The movements help ease pregnancy related aches and reduce anxiety. The deep, rhythmic breathing alongside gentle movement helps deliver more oxygen to the baby and prepares you for labour.

Yes, the controlled breath work alongside gentle movement helps ease symptoms of asthma or long covid.

Can I do Tai Chi & Qigong if pregnant?

Praise

What our participants say

Since starting tai chi, my balance has improved so much, and my chronic pain feels more manageable.

Anna Lee

Seattle WA

The meditation in motion helped ease my anxiety and improved my sleep quality noticeably within weeks.

Mark Wu

Austin TX

★★★★★

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