Qigong
Intended Audience
All members including people living with cancer, family members and significant caregivers.
Program Description
Qigong (pronounced chee gong) is a powerful meditative practice designed to promote healthy flow of energy in the body (Qi) and create inner harmony, calmness and peace. Borne of science and Chinese philosophies more than 5,000 years ago, Qigong offers simple tools and techniques that combine elements of breathing, gentle movements, mental focus, visualization, sound and moving meditation. Those who practice Qigong regularly find the exercise profoundly helpful for managing daily stress and wellness, and transformative in terms of overall health and well-being.
“How powerful the mind is and how it can help through stressful times using Qigong.”
“I have learned many self-care practices which have been very beneficial to my body and I plan to keep them up indefinitely.”
“(Qigong helped me) unblock body channels, learn how to focus and breathe properly.”
Benefits and Impact
Qigong has been noted in research to have potential in improving the health of those with cancer. Evidence is emerging that Qigong can improve fatigue, sleep quality, and cognitive function in cancer survivors (Myers et al., 2019; Wayne et al., 2018). Other reports also suggest that Qigong may also improve stress (Zeng et al., 2019).
What to Expect at a Session
Class begins with gentle warm-up exercises that include light bouncing, and tapping and cupping energy points in the body to stimulate energy flow and prepare the body for the session. The warm-up is followed by approximately 30 minutes of mindful movement practice, which can be done in a standing or seated position. Class concludes with a seated guided meditation that is typically 10 to 15 minutes in duration.
