Dear Reader,
There’s a safe and easy solution to anxiety, depression and loneliness…
It’s not a drug or a nutritional supplement. You won’t find it in those self-affirming “You Can Do It” books and it has nothing to do with therapy or psychology. And yet it’s been available for over three thousand years.
I’m talking about the ancient practice of Qi Gong. Since I first wrote to you about this a few months ago, I’ve received dozens of letters from readers asking me about this ancient practice. Today, I’ll give you a better idea of what it is and how you can get started right away.
While you may have heard of things like acupuncture, herbal medicine or feng shui, Qi Gong remains a mystery to most Americans. But millions of people in China take advantage of its healing power everyday.
This centuries-old discipline (pronounced Chee Gung) combines mental concentration, breathing techniques and body movements to activate and build up your “vital energy.” This energy flows through invisible channels in your body. These channels, called meridians, are the same pathways acupuncturists use to heal your body.
But this practice also benefits your mind and emotions. In fact, the calming effects of Qi Gong often produce a feeling of “wholeness” that melts away anxiety and loneliness. This unique integration of mind, body and emotions makes it different – and in some ways more effective – than some Western techniques.
There are many advantages to Western medicine, especially emergency care and dealing with acute conditions. But it does have some weaknesses. In general, mainstream medicine:
• Is not preventative
• Can be very expensive
• Deals primarily with symptoms, not the underlying cause
• Creates side effects that cause more problems
By adding Qi Gong to your daily routine you’ll not only boost your immune system, you’ll also effectively deal with “non-medical” problems like discontentment, anxiety and isolation.
In Chinese philosophy, “Qi” or “Chi” means air or breath, vital energy, or the Universal Force that gives rise to all things. “Gong” means work, or the function and benefit of this energy. It’s also the self-discipline that leads to mastery.
But you don’t have to believe in Chinese philosophy to get the benefits of Qi Gong. All you have to do is repeat a series of simple movements while breathing calmly and deeply. You use your “minds eye” to visualize that you’re guiding your breath through your body.
Here’s one you can try right now. It’s very easy… Just stand with your feet shoulder width apart, toes pointing forward. Start with your arms at your side and then slowly bring your elbows forward, so they are slightly in front of you. Spread your fingers out a bit, so there’s space between them.
Bend your knees slightly and sink your hips. Gently stretch your spine upwards by lifting from the base of the skull. As you do this, slightly tuck in your chin. This will straighten the first 7 vertebrae in your neck.
Raise the corners of your mouth into a smile and touch the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth, just above the back of your front teeth. This “closes the circuit” and allows the energy to flow freely. (This is the same technique I learned from the yoga gurus I met in India last year.)
From this position, bring your awareness to your breath. Inhale and exhale. Do it slowly and with as little effort as possible. As you inhale, imagine a peaceful calm entering every cell in your body. As you exhale, imagine your stress, worry and illness blowing out of your body like smoke.
As you hold this position, you’ll notice that your shoulders start to relax and drop. You’ll feel your legs relax and sense that they’re more rooted to the ground. Your breathing will deepen and you’ll feel it flow into your arms and legs.
Now you’re going to add some movement with your arms. Bring your hands around to the front, in line with your waist. Your palms should be facing each other, about 8 to 12 inches apart, like you’re holding a ball.
Inhale and let your hands move to the sides. Imagine the ball you’re holding is getting bigger and bigger. As the ball expands, your hands and arms move out to the side. Then exhale and let your hands return to their original position, about 8 to 12 inches apart. Repeat, back and forth as you breathe.
Doing this simple exercise for 2 to 3 minutes will give you a feeling of focus and centeredness. In the morning, it will energize you and prepare you for your day. In the evening, it will wash away your stress and lift you mood.
If you start your own program of Qi Gong, it won’t be long before you notice the extra energy. It’s an exceptionally effective tool for invigorating your body and getting rid of stress. And, it’s simple to learn and do.
I discovered a great teacher here in the US. He’s from China and teaches the ancient styles passed down from teacher to student for thousands of years.
His connection to Western medicine attracted my interest. He’s working with doctors from the University of Minnesota. His style of Qi Gong is helping people overcome physical, mental and emotional issues – even reversing disease.
Find out more about this exceptional Qi Gong teacher’s program HERE.
To Your Good Health,
Al Sears, MD