The Best Qi Gong Movement for Summer Wellness
Summer Qi Gong Practices for Inner Harmony
In the ancient practice of Qi Gong, each of the five phases contains its own unique exercise. And during the blazing summer months, the Fire Phase Qi Gong is especially potent. The following draws from the wisdom in the book Zheng Gu Tui Na by Tom Bisio and Frank Butler.
Important things to remember
Breath and movement occur simultaneously.
Breathing is relaxed and continuous, and naturally happens in your lower abdomen.
Use the minimum necessary effort to accomplish each motion.
Focus your mind on your breath as your abdomen expands and contracts, filling like a balloon with each inhalation and softly collapsing with each exhalation.
Bring your awareness to the different feelings in your body as you move. Connect with each sensation.
Effects of the Fire Phase Qi Gong
The meridians corresponding to each phase are gently opened and closed by the physical movements while the breath guides Qi through these pathways.
Organs move through their ligamentous connections to the diaphragm and the abdominal wall. The diaphragm moves with each expansion and contraction created through the breathing motion.
Each spinal segment linked to an organ is activated, enhancing movement in that spinal area to affect spinal nerve innervation at each organ. This is known in Chinese medicine as the back shu (transport) points.
Mastering the Fire Phase Qi Gong Exercise (video)
Follow along as Noah demonstrates!
This exercise, designed to harmonize your body's internal heat during the summer, draws from the wisdom in the book Zheng Gu Tui Na by Tom Bisio and Frank Butler.
Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, arms relaxed at your sides.
Inhale slowly and begin to move your arms to the left. You should feel your weight gradually shift to your left foot while your waist turns to the left, following the movement of your arms.
Continue to inhale as your arms rise, with your left hand moving in front of your face, palm facing you at eye level.
Keep your right hand palm up near your left elbow. As you exhale, rotate your palms outward.
Bend your left arm and position it in front of the left side of your head as if to ward off an intruder.
Extend your right arm across your body, pushing past your left arm, which gently squeezes and massages the heart area.
Begin to turn your waist back toward the center as your arms curve inward as if you are holding a large, invisible ball against your chest.
Inhale and slowly swing your arms to the right to mirror the movement on the opposite side.
Perform this sequence nine times or more.
Final Thoughts on Summer Qi
Integrating these Qi Gong practices into your summer wellness routine can significantly enhance your body's harmony and balance. Just as the Fire Phase Qi Gong aligns your internal heat, acupuncture works similarly by regulating the body's energy flow through the meridians. This synergy of Qi Gong and acupuncture not only harmonizes the body but also supports overall health and well-being. Embrace these ancient practices to foster a deeper connection with your body's natural rhythms and maintain your vitality throughout the summer season.
