Qi Gong (also spelt Qigong/Chi Kung/Chi Gung) translates from the Chinese as “energy work”. Often there is a confusion in how to pronounce Qi Gong. The nearest pronunciation would be “Chee Goong”.

Qi Gong is a collective term for movement exercises, breathing techniques, meditation and energy healing. Qi Gong has many of the attributes of Tai Chi (Taijiquan) and Hatha Yoga, but simplier and a lot easier to learn and practice. Exercises are like Tai Chi in style but practiced singularly and repetitively, but not so stretchy as Hatha Yoga and is done mainly standing up. This makes the exercises suitable for all ages and abilities. At the end of the session seated meditation is practiced focusing on the breath and mental calmness.

Dave also teaches Do-In exercises (Japanese term derived from the Chinese “Dao Yin”, an early form of Qigong). In its modern form Do-In is a exercise system well known in Macrobiotic and Shiatsu circles, and consists of self-massage and acupressure, focused breath, and meridian stretching exercises similar to Yoga. Do-In exercises compliment Qigong and gives it extra dynamism, including emphasis of working energetically with the Five Transformations (also known as Elements or Phases) of Water, Wood, Fire, Earth and Metal.

Benefits of Qigong & Do-In exercises are:

• Improved breathing
• Readjustment of posture and biomechanics
• Relaxation and improved state of mind
• Cultivation of internal energy for health
• More energy to do those things you wish to do in life
• Stimulation of blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
• No equipment or special clothing is necessary