QIGONG WITH JOHN

Chinese Energy Practice for Health, Healing and Wellness

What is Qigong?

More Than Meets the Eye

Qi is the Chinese term for the essential energy of creation and life while Gong mean work. So the usual translation of Qigong is Energy Work, or sometimes Energy Exercise. This is a wide ranging spectrum, encompassing Martial Arts at one end and quiet meditation at the other end. I prefer the term Energy Cultivation, since our goal is to nurture our Qi to make it strong and healthy, like a farmer cultivating an important crop. The crop here is human health and vitality.

The most familiar form of Qigong for the average person is Tai Chi, but that is only a small part of the Qigong universe. There are literally hundreds of methods of Qigong, so everyone can find one that is right for them. What all Qigong has in common is body posture or movement, breath control and mental intent or focus.

Qigong is sometimes referred to as moving meditation, because it is a form of mindfulness. Other times it has been called "Chinese Yoga" because of its history and influence on the practitioner's lifestyle.

What most people don't know is that Qigong has a history over 4,000 years old, and is an essential part of Chinese Medicine, just like Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. It is much more than simple exercise, it is a tool for a better life.

A Little About Me

The Journey Never Ends

My introduction to Qigong came more than 30 years ago, through the martial arts. My interest continued to grow, and I decided to enroll in college to study Acupuncture, eventually earning a Masters Degree and becoming a Licensed Acupuncturist in New York. I then continued on to a post-graduate Medical Qigong program. My knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, experience as a Reiki Master and personal trainer combine to give me a different interpretation of Qigong than many other teachers.

Qigong is a never ending journey. There is always something new to be learned if you want to look deeper and keep studying and practicing.

Education and Certifications

M.S. in Acupuncture 2004

Graduate Certificate in Medical Qigong 2014

Certified Teacher Zhineng Qigong 2020

Reiki Master/Teacher 1996

Home: About Me

FAQs

You’ve Got Questions - We’ve Got Answers

Do I need to be at a certain athletic level to train in Qigong?

No. The purpose of Qigong is to grow and strengthen your Qi (essential life energy) with the goal of improving your physical and mental health. Practice can be tailored to suit any health or fitness level.

I have seen Qigong and it looks like calisthenics I did back in school.

There is a superficial resemblance, and some historians think that the calisthenic movement of the 19th century was heavily influenced by Chinese health practices observed by travelers to Asia. But there are important differences in the way the movements are executed, particularly in the way the mind is involved. Qigong is a true mindful Mind-Body practice.

So what makes Qigong special?

There are three essential components to any Qigong exercise: Posture/Movements, Breathing technique, and Mental intent. If all three are present you have Qigong; If any are missing you have something else.

Qigong is a whole life practice, meant to be practiced in daily activity as well as during class.

What can I expect from practicing Qigong?

Qigong brings a wide range of benefits, physical and mental. Like Tai Chi, the gentle movements help you to gain strength and flexibility, and improve balance. Breathing exercises and meditation increase energy while reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.
Because Qigong is a Mind-Body exercise, most people gain an increased awareness of and connection to their body. This can lead to increased sense of "who I am".

What is a typical class like?

In general classes will include some warmup exercises and practice of forms, breathing and/or meditation. The actual mix will vary from class to class, adjusted by what I feel is most appropriate for that day.
In addition, I will introduce various topics pertaining to Chinese Medicine, diet, etc. when it seems relevant.
My goal is for every participant to gain a little more knowledge every class, but to enjoy the class at the same time.

Classes Available

I offer classes in person or online. I am located in south west Suffolk County, NY. In special cases I can travel locally to meet with you for a small additional fee. In nice weather we might even practice outdoors, closer to nature. Because of limited space class size is small, so everyone gets personal attention.

Everyone's situation is different, so I do not offer cookie cutter instruction. I will draw from my experience with Qigong , Chinese Medicine and exercise to help you meet your goals, regardless of prior experience or physical condition.