Over the past few days, I have embarked on a journey into the world of Qi Gong, and I can genuinely say it has been one of the most peaceful and transformative experiences I’ve had in a long time. I find myself naturally flowing into the movements throughout the day, feeling a deep sense of relaxation and inner balance. If you’ve never tried Qi Gong before, let me take you through my first experience and share why this ancient practice might be just what you need in your life.

What is Qi Gong?

Qi Gong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, controlled breathing, and meditation to cultivate and balance the body’s vital energy, known as “Qi.” It has been practiced for thousands of years to improve health, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Often compared to Tai Chi, Qi Gong is typically simpler and more focused on breathwork and energy flow rather than martial applications.

My First Experience with Qi Gong

I had always been curious about Qi Gong but never made the time to explore it—until now. Over the past few days, I dedicated just a short period each morning to practicing simple Qi Gong movements and breath exercises. What surprised me the most was how effortless and natural it felt. Unlike high-intensity workouts that leave you exhausted, Qi Gong left me feeling both refreshed and deeply at peace.

One of the most profound things I noticed was how my breath slowed down and deepened. I became more aware of how tension subtly built up in my body and, through gentle movements, I could release it. I also found that the movements stayed with me throughout the day—I would catch myself spontaneously repeating them while taking a break from work or even while standing in the kitchen. It was as if my body had started to recognize Qi Gong as a natural rhythm of being rather than just an exercise.

The Benefits I Noticed

Though it has only been a few days, I already feel significant benefits from practicing Qi Gong:

• Deep Relaxation – I feel much calmer and more at peace, even in moments that would typically stress me out.
• Increased Awareness – I’m more in tune with my body and breath, which helps me stay present.
• Gentle Energy Boost – Unlike coffee or stimulants, Qi Gong provides a natural and sustained feeling of vitality.
• Better Posture and Movement – I’ve become more mindful of how I carry myself, reducing tension in my shoulders and back.

How to Get Started with Qi Gong

If you’re curious about trying Qi Gong, the great news is that it’s incredibly accessible. You don’t need any special equipment, and you can start with just a few minutes a day. Here are some great resources to help you begin:

• YouTube Channels: There are many free Qi Gong tutorials online. A great starting point is Lee Holden’s Qi Gong or Spring Forest Qi Gong.
• Books: “The Way of Qi Gong” by Kenneth Cohen is a fantastic read for understanding the philosophy and benefits of the practice.
• Local Classes: Check to see if there are Qi Gong classes or workshops near you. Practicing with a group can be a wonderful experience.
• Apps: Some mindfulness and meditation apps, such as Insight Timer, offer guided Qi Gong sessions.
  
  Personally I take my classes over at Mindvalley
  
  

Final Thoughts

My introduction to Qi Gong has been a beautiful and effortless way to cultivate more relaxation, presence, and well-being in my daily life. Whether you’re looking for a way to reduce stress, boost your energy, or simply connect with yourself on a deeper level, Qi Gong is a practice worth exploring.

Have you ever tried Qi Gong? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!