Qigong
Image by Cyndi Bemel
Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) is often translated as “energy cultivation” or “skill in working with energy.” Qi (chee) means energy and, in Qigong, refers to the vital energy or life force within us, what animates and gives life to all living things.
In Qigong, we think of Qi as flowing through and supporting everything from our heartbeat and digestion to our thoughts and emotions. Gong refers to skill developed through practice and consistent effort. Together, Qigong is the practice of cultivating and working with our energy through movement, breath, and awareness.
Rooted in ancient Chinese movement and mindfulness traditions, Qigong blends gentle, intentional movement with breath and awareness to support whole-body health and inner calm.
What is Qigong?
My Approach
My Qigong classes are beginner-friendly and designed to meet you where you are, while offering a practice you can continue to explore and grow with over time.
Throughout each session, you’ll learn not just how to move, but why the movements matter, including how they support the physical body and, when relevant, the body’s internal systems. This helps you practice with greater intention, stay present as you move, and carry what you learn into daily life.
My intention is to bring a sense of calm to each class, along with warmth, lightness, and a little humor. While the practice is internal and intentional, I believe there’s also room for joy and a sense of playfulness. After all, even a simple smile can shift how we feel.
Most classes end with an optional 5–10 minute mindfulness practice to help you integrate the experience, feel more grounded and present in your body, and carry that sense of peace and calm into your day.
You’ll experience:
Synchronized breath with movement to calm and regulate the nervous system
Full-body warm-ups that enhance mobility and prepare joints and muscles for fluid motion
Gentle stretching and strengthening to build flexibility and resilience without strain
Rooted stances and mindful movement to improve balance, stability, coordination, and body confidence
Flowing movements that teach us to move with relaxation, helping to cultivate greater energy, ease, and inner peace
Inner awareness and intention to restore harmony in body, mind, and spirit
With Regular practice, side effects may include…😉
Less tension and greater ease in movement
Improved flexibility, coordination, and balance
A calmer mind and steadier mood
Enhanced energy and vitality
Better sleep and immune support
Feeling more connected, present, and at ease in your body and in your life
Below is a glimpse of how we warm up, stretch, and prepare the body before moving into our relaxing Qigong flows.
The movements shown here are standing, yet many can also be done seated to meet your body’s needs.
A fully seated version of the practice is available through the Twin Oaks Circle Membership for those who prefer or require a chair-based experience.
Discover the Benefits of Joining the Twin Oaks Circle
Image by Cyndi Bemel