COVID-19 Update
We are monitoring this situation daily, to stay informed, and making changes moment to moment.
f you’d like to practice qigong, during this time of social distancing, join us on Wednesdays via Zoom, or we have qigong DVDs available.
Read our full COVID-19 Update
Qigong promotes inner strength, the true vigor. It helps to find and enhance the virtue and character of oneself.
The gentle nature of qigong makes this practice safe and accessible for everyone.
“A hinge that moves does not rust.”
—Sun Simiao
What is Qigong?
(Pronounced “chee -gung”)
Qigong is the foundation of Chinese medicine. It is a practice that sustains health, promotes longevity, and connects the movement of universal energy and individual energy. Acupuncture was originally applied through qigong rather than needle insertion.
Qigong is a series of flowing movements, gentle stretches, and strengthening postures that regulate breath, body, and mind.
It moves vital energy, providing strength, relaxation, and vitality to regulate physical body functions, enhance mental clarity, and brighten the spirit. Known as the elixir of life, qigong circulates energy to prevent stagnation, a cause for disease.
This energy (qi) work (gong) helps to maintain health and happiness by cultivating the mind, manifesting integrity, empowering the will, and strengthening intention.
The Intention behind thought is the master of energy. Energy is the master of blood. Blood carries qi.
Qigong promotes inner strength, the true vigor. It helps to find and enhance one’s virtue and character of oneself. In Chinese theory, to build only physical strength is to create a “paper tiger’. Such a tiger looks strong on the outside, but due to no internal cultivation, the tiger is actually weak, like paper.
In qigong, everything is qi (energy) and qi transmission.
Words people say, how we feel when in contact with another, the step that propels us forward, or the fear that holds us back, are all energetic exchanges, and we will somehow respond to that energy.
The principles of qigong help us skillfully guide the energies that come at us in daily life.
“Regulate your breath to be slow, smooth, deep, and even.”
—Master Zhongxian Wu
Regular practice of qigong can help to:
Build stamina, and increase range of motion
Improve balance and coordination
Enhance focus, concentration, and memory
Connect you to your own and universal energies
Provide strength, relaxation, and vigor
Brighten your spirit
The best way to learn about qigong is to experience it. As Sifu Garcia says, come to qigong class and “focus on one thing to forget ten thousand things.”
Qigong Classes
When are classes offered?
Tuesdays 8:00–9:00 AM and Wednesday 5:30–6:30 PM
What happens at class?
Classes include gentle stretching, relaxing breathwork, and simple strengthening. You will explore movement, observe stillness, step away from habitual behavior, and discover ease.
What should I wear for class?
Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Classes are done in socks or bare feet.
Where do I enter the center for class?
Enter via the last door facing water street on the back end the Acupuncture Center Decorah building. There is ample street parking.
What does a class cost?
Classes are drop-in style; $12 per class.
(Or sign up for the Jing -Qi -Shen Package — More Qi for less money.)
Save your spot and let us know you’re coming by registering below, though a RSVP is not required.
Jing -Qi -Shen Package
Three consecutive qigong classes for $30. Save $6! Sign up and pay online for three sessions of the same class.
This is a great way to get a full immersion experience. Three classes are better than one to get a real feel of the qigong groove.
Package is for the prepaid dates only. Come and move your qi times 3!
Classes
We host many classes, in addition to Qigong sessions.
Gift Certificate
Give someone a gift card, so they can attend a Qigong class.
Qigong DVDs
Practice Qigong in the comfort of your own home.