Last Friday we introduced the concept of balance. Throughout our lives, our body continually tries to return us to a state of balance. But our activities, emotions, and stressors continually get us out of trouble. What we experience on the physical level – ache, pain, illness, etc. first exists on the energetic level. We know that E=mc² – Energy and mass are interchangeable. With a balanced lifestyle and even emotions, our physical discomforts can disappear. The secret is in Qigong and the way we live our daily lives.
Every day we are faced with choices. Understanding what will benefit us allows us to make choices to improve our health. At a deep level of reality, all living things operate under certain laws of nature. By following these laws, we can build a foundation for well-being and balance in our lives. Here are five lifestyle choices that the ancients in China attuned to. These tips will help your body remember its own natural healing.
1. Qigong practice
If something stays in one place for too long, it becomes stiff and stagnant. Through Qigong, or energy practice, we move the Qi of the body to create flow. Your body is made up of about 70 percent water, so gentle, slow, water-like movements are the best forms of exercise. Through a consistent and steady Qigong practice you can increase and balance your Qi. Walking slowly in nature is another way to allow your body to connect with and receive the healing Qi of the natural world.
2. Eating for Healing
We eat three meals a day, so eating is the easiest way to make an impact. Balanced eating, or eating for healing, is about following the seasons. When you eat in harmony with the specific time of year, you are not only eating foods that are locally available, but you are also eating in a way that supports the health of your internal Qi. Food is a powerful tool for creating well-being. The stomach prefers warm food and drinks, especially in the morning. Ice cold drinks, dairy products and raw vegetables can actually throw the function of this important digestive organ out of balance.
3. Take a break
Finding the balance between work and rest is important for your overall health. Start your workday with the following two-minute meditation: Sit at your desk and simply close your eyes. Breathe in and feel your body relax. As you breathe out, allow yourself to let go of any problems, emotions, or physical sensations. Return to a calm state throughout the day through short meditation breaks.
4. Go to bed early
Did you know? Do you use almost twice as much energy when you wake up after midnight than during the day? Your body has an internal rhythm and your energy penetrates deep into your organs at night, rejuvenating and healing them. So make sure you get your zzz’s!
5. Don’t worry, be happy
Emotions play a huge role in your overall well-being. They are the actions of your mind and the manifestation of your consciousness. Although emotions are a natural part of life, they must flow! Emotions are often the energy behind many physical problems.
A traditional healing exercise is called ‘Smiling from the heart’. Look in front of the mirror and smile – a real smile from your heart. That is it! Your heart is home to your mind, and your face reflects this aspect of your soul. This exercise promotes the flow of Qi and blood throughout your body.
Learn more
Come back next Friday for a continuation of this series on Balans.
Join us for two great events in February: Instructor Training: Dragon’s Way Qigong® and Qigong for Breast Health