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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Qigong is an umbrella term for the overall energy work underlying Tai Chi and many martial arts, dating back at least 2,500 years ago. It is traditionally practiced to cultivate internal energy for health, vitality and longevity. Qigong focuses on working with pathways of energy in the body, the aligning of our awareness with physical movement and the breath, and the cultivation of harmonious internal energy flow. It is linked with the meridian system in Acupuncture and is one of the five original branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
In my Qigong Courses, I explore traditional Health Qigong Forms/sequences as practiced and taught by the International Health Qigong Federation. Qigong Forms tend to have from 8 to 12 movements which focus on promoting and preserving the health of specific organs/energy/meridian pathways. Health is considered to be the free and vibrant flow of energy in the body.
Both Qigong & Tai Chi involve slow mindful movements, meditation, alignment with the body and breath, and energy work. Health Qigong’s relative simplicity perhaps allows some people to experience more easily the benefits in Nervous System regulation, grounding, expansion and a sense of ease and flow. It also teaches the foundational principles of embodied movement and alignment.
I generally recommend that people start their journey with Qigong Courses and take it from there.
Tai Chi is the internal martial art-form of Qigong, and involves learning longer sequences of movements, together with their martial applications as well as partner work. It is a younger practice than Qigong, dating back to its foundations in the 13th century.
Many people choose to stay with the shorter and often very elegant Qigong Forms, as the choreography and energy/health benefits can initially feel easier to access and enjoy. Tai Chi teaches us patience, humility, self-awareness and acceptance as we take time to learn and study these beautiful longer Forms. Itis wonderful for those committed to a long-term practice.
Please read the suitability details given for each Course in the Booking page.
In general, Qigong is considered a gentle form of exercise which will suit most people. The Tai Chi Course is currently at an advanced stage and will not suit new people unless otherwise stated. It is however suitable for those with previous experience of the Yang-family style Short Form.
https://www.taichiqigonghaven.ie/book-online
Please read the suitability details given for each Course in the Booking page.
Qigong and Tai Chi are considered gentle forms of exercise. Please contact and follow the advice of your doctor/Consultant/mental health professional if you currently have any medical or mental health condition/illness. Please read and follow the Safety Statement below.
Safety Statement: Before you begin these practices at home, in class or by following the videos, please note that Tai Chi, Qigong, Meditation, Chair Yoga and Yoga Nidra are gentle practices of wellbeing and exercise, and will generally suit most people. Nonetheless, always move gently and well within your capabilities. Please inform your instructor, but also follow the advice from your doctor/Consultant/mental health professional if you currently have any medical or mental health condition/illness. These movements can also be practiced seated.
https://www.taichiqigonghaven.ie/book-online
I believe finances should not be a barrier to enjoying Qigong and Tai Chi.
Courses are always offered with the option of paying Dana/smaller donation for those who may be experiencing financial difficulty. Please email me for a suggestion:
taichi.qigong.haven@gmail.com (taichi.qigong.haven@gmail.com)
I generally teach Courses in Health Qigong Forms/sequences from the International Health Qigong Federation or in the Yang family-style Tai Chi Short Form. As we progress in our exploration each week, my Courses are not suitable for a drop-in basis.
You would be welcome to join in at the start of the next Course, or to register for the Online Courses, where you will receive a recording of each session, and can replay at your own time throughout the Course.
Please subscribe to the mailing list on the Home Page:
https://www.taichiqigonghaven.ie/
It is very helpful to add my email address taichi.qigong.haven@gmail.com (taichi.qigong.haven@gmail.com) to your list of Contacts/Safe Sender’s list. You will receive an email before each round of new Courses. You can unsubscribe at any time by emailing me.
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