Tiger Spirit - a Holistic Connection
I'm in a state of delirium when I wake up feeling like I'm in the tropics, yet, staring at the UK canals; however, being a sunshine babe, you'll never hear me complain about high temps anywhere, which the media dubbed as a heatwave. For me, it was simply a pleasant surprise for the end of April into May, and I hope many more days like that are in store.
We'd been chugging around the Leicester area over a period and moored a short walk from Aylestone Meadows – endless acres of woodlands, which were perfect for me to do some Qigong.
I've been deepening my Qigong studies, and one of the topics that fascinates me is fascia, the connective tissues that hold our organs together.
When I look at images of fascia, it has a gel-like consistency that's elastic and stretchy. However, this elasticity reduces with age and hardens and becomes more plastic-like. A lack of movement accelerates that process, so this motivates me to consciously do these precise movements to help my fascia become more malleable.
Although many different modalities of fitness help to lubricate the joints, tendons, and muscles, my preference is Qigong because it's like biohacking wisdom, and the benefits are tangible from filling my organs with air and opening up the energy channels.
This Tiger Qigong from the 5 Element Qigong is associated with the metal element and is connected to the lungs, which are where the emotion of grief is stored. So these movements are my self-care for grief, which causes tightness in the chest.
Also, I spend long hours sitting by the computer, and even though I practise getting up to move around at frequent intervals, it doesn't eliminate stiffness and sensations of tightness in my chest, because I might unconsciously slouch, which then constricts my breathing.
Sometimes I do all the other four movements (dragon, leopard, snake, and the crane) together as a flow, and at other times I find it effective to tune into my body (which is constantly communicating), and I can sense specific areas that are being restricted.
So, doing this not only helps with the physical posture but also balances the organs internally for harmony and better energy flow, hence the term Qi Gong, qi meaning energy, and gong meaning the skilful use.
Imagine doing a full-body workout with no equipment, just some simple moves that you can master over time? It's amazing.
Some days my flexibility and strength change, which I can observe when I take photos, and even more when I do videos. However, it's not about how flexible or deep into the poses I can go; it's more of being in the present and understanding the principles of the movement.
Mindfulness, breathing, and meditation are involved for that mind, body, and spirit connection. A beautiful, safe, and peaceful way for some neuro-hacking that helps to stimulate my brain, enough to maintain a sense of calm, and this is a good way to keep my mind stimulated and focused.
Happy Monday, peeps. Let's be mindful in everything we do. :)
All the images and the video belong to me.
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My blog frequently features my minimalist lifestyle and adventures while living on my narrowboat.”
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Milly
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As usual, I love reading your posts. I got to learn about Qigong, hope you keep up with it. I, too, feel the tightness in the chest. Been spending a lot of time working on the laptop. Need some more mind time. Stay Flexible. 😁
Hey there!
Thank you!
Being sedentary affects us in ways we don't realise. I hope that you'll get the chance to do some movements on the coffee farm. I think that would be a perfect combination for me to do some qigong.
Have a lovely day! :)))
Those moves, I would have mistaken it for a kung-fu training if you didn't go into details. Quigong is definitely a big deal judging by your testimonies and the best part of all is the impact extending from the physical to our mental health.
I love your shots as usual, the horse 😘
👏
Oh, you're not far off at all. Qigong is the essence of kung fu, and it's even more obvious in the other 4 movements of the 5 Element Qigong.
It's like kung fu in slow motion, and the breath guides the movement for meditation and embodying the spirit of each animal, while opening up the energy channels in the body.
Thank you! It's like looking at a postcard. :)))
Does this have anything to do with the believe system? like believing the mind will attain calmness with the help of Qigong?
Good question!
It's the other way around.
Doing the movements correctly with the right breath, meditative moment, and focus helps to regulate the blood pressure and the nervous system, which then leaves you in a calm and relaxed state.
It's ancient Chinese Medicine mixed with sports science and neuroscience, and the belief system is based on Daoism/Taoism, which was developed from watching and mimicking nature. Daoism is connected to the observance of nature and the belief that nature and human beings are intrinsically connected. So, we are all influenced by the elements of the earth and the elements of the earth are connected to our bodies.
Practising Qigong helps to concentrate the mind and the spirit by simplifying and purifying the mind. That helps us to diminish desires, bring contentment and be present in the moment, to keep the mind tranquil.:)
It's being a while...
I must say this is such an amazing and powerful grounded approach to selfcare. I see how you carefully and intentionally connected movement with emotion and internal balance. Indeed healing begins from within and the awareness you bring to your body signals is so inspiring to behold.
I am glad I came across this post.
I'm happy that you appreciate this, because I remember you mentioned in a pst that you practice Yoga.
Yes, Qigong is an intentional practice that involves cultivating, proper use, and storage of energy, called Qi
It's a deep practice where you can feel Skin Qi, Nerve Qi, and Bone Qi - that all leave different sensations in the body.
This particular king of Qigong is called the 5 Element Qigong, which is connected to the 5 Elements of the Earth, and associated to 5 main organs within the meridian of the body, and it's all done through the movement of 5 different animals.
Haha, there's a lot of 5, but for me, this practice is like a 10/10 for health benefits and overall well being. Think of it as massaging the internal organs:)))
All I do is a repeat of the same style, just because I am used to certain poses but that doesn't stop me from trying out something entirely new like Qigong. The idea of Skin Qi, Nerve Qi and Bone Qi is all new to me, but it makes so much sense that each layer would have its own energy and sensation.
I really think the 5 Element concept and the connection to organs through animal forms is such a rich system. It really shows how ancient wisdom can still support us in modern life. I can see why you rate it a 10/10! I would definitely be trying it out.
There's nothing wrong with that, and I was like that with my yoga for ages. I only did Vinyasa Yoga and then I was introduced to Ashtanga and more recently Hatha Yoga.
A good way to develop your yoga practice if you do it alone at home, would be to follow Ashtanga because it's a set routine or Hatha Yoga has a set sun salutation, which is a workout in itself. Ashtanga is more advanced, but there's a primary series that you would be able to follow.
I stumbled upon Qigong by chance and I originally started doing the 8 Silk Brocades and then I was introduced to the 5 Element which resonated better.
There are over 2000 different styles of Qigong. The 5 element movements are demanding, but the good thing is that doing the modifications are equally beneficial and it's more about opening up the body gradually, not by force.
Qigong is similar to yoga because they share similar beliefs from Buddhism. Qigong from China and Yoga from India... it makes sense because India is next to China, so the influences mix with the same philosophies. Therefore, I also do what they call QiYo or YoQi, which is a combination of the 2 modalities:)
Wow, I really appreciate you sharing all of that! It's amazing how your practice has evolved over time. I find it encouraging that you started with one style and gradually opened up to others as they resonated with you. I’ve been feeling a bit stuck in my own routine, so hearing about how structured practices like Ashtanga or even the Sun Salutations in Hatha could support a home practice is really helpful. I love the idea of a practice that’s physically engaging but also rooted in gradual, mindful movement. And blending Qigong and yoga into QiYo sounds so holistic, it really makes sense considering the shared philosophical roots. Definitely something I would love to explore further!
I'm pleased you found this helpful.😍
It's common for self-taught yogis to feel stuck in their practice, so I'd suggest trying different ones.
I did this yoga daily for 6 months about 7 years ago, and I was amazed at the transformation in my mind and body. Just bear in mind that those are advanced yogis in his video, so you should only go at your own pace.
Sure! It will be helpful.
Thank you!
You're welcome:)
I love the freedom of the first photograph. It is impressive and relaxing. It exudes a unique vitality.
I think states of connection revitalize the soul and help you grow. I embrace those states because they help you and fill you with vitality.
Thank you!
Freedom is exactly what I experience being here in nature, and yes, it all connects and gives vitality. You've said that so well :)))
I love it, your answer. I think the essence of life consists of just that. Finding yourself. : )
💯%
Or even better, finding our way back to our authentic selves 🙏
Indeed, this is what we should be looking for. I am emotional today. I send you a hug. I'll have a cup of coffee in a while. :) With it, everything goes away.
🙏
Just remember, no emotion is bad, as some that we might regard as negative, can be the catalyst for change. So, embrace all that you're feeling.🤗
i love qigong! so cool milly! locve that video out in nature in the sun! going to train qigong more now that i am almost home. i met a guy in brazil that can do telekinesis with his Chi..!!!
Thank you 😊
Yes, I've heard that it is amazing. It's out of the scope of the Qigong that I do, though. However, my master mentioned that to me.
I'm pleased to hear that you do Qigong, and I'd love to know what style you do. I also do Meridian Qigong, but my focus is the 5 Element Qigong.:)
i do Zhan zhuang
i need to get back into practice though. it REALLY helps me with skateboarding and healing
Ok, cool!
I do Zhàn Zhuāng Meditation after each of the 5 animal/element move.
I enjoy watching you in pictures with your boat - always a pleasure for my eyes!
☘️
😍
😄😋😋😋😋😋 I so wish it comes true one day!!!!
#MeToo 😁
It's interesting reading about Qi Gong. Your passion for it really comes through in your writing. Sounds like you found your niche/ calling, or a least one of perhaps many.
Thank you! 😆🙃
😍 Yes, I have.
I am finally taking an in-depth teacher training course on it, and the benefits and possibilities of Qigong are incredible.
If we ever meet, I will teach you. 😁
That's great! Sounds like you made the right decision.
Okay, sounds good!
😁