Why Qigong?
Chinese medicine believes that the lower dantian, an energy center behind and below your navel, is the starting point of all circulation of energy. It is the root of the 12 energy channels of the body, as well as the extra channels.
Therefore, concentrating the mind on this position preserves your health and aids in the prevention and treatments of illness and disease.
Additionally, qigong exercises ensure the smooth flow of qi to encourage mental and physical relaxation.
Mental focus is achieved through concentration and the use of willpower and imagination to eliminate other thoughts. The result is a feeling of serenity.
Physically, qigong allows your qi and blood to flow smoothly through your body, nourishing everything from your large organs to your smallest cells.
The deep breathing you do during qigong is especially powerful during the fall. You are strengthening and clearing your lungs. This allows wei qi, defensive qi, to effectively protect you at the surface so external pathogens cannot penetrate.
Deep breathing also helps release emotions of sadness and grief, an essential task of autumn.