Best Practices for Qigong Training

The effectiveness of our Qigong training practice can be affected by various external factors. Where, when and how we do it, what we wear, what we visualize – all these things should be taken into consideration to create ideal training conditions. Here are a few suggestions that can help you to receive more benefits from your Qigong practice.

Do Not Fatigue Yourself

While doing your Qigong practice, do not fatigue yourself. Listen to your body and stop whenever you feel you are pushing too hard. Knowing when to stop brings the ability to conserve proper energy and keep it for the next set or the next day of your training.

Feel Connection to The Earth

The best Qigong training is when you do it while feeling connection to the earth. Practice barefoot on soft, dry grass to stimulate acupuncture points on the bottom of your feet or wear soft, thin-soled shoes.

Breathe Continuously

Always remember to breathe continuously. Holding your breath when doing certain Qigong can be dangerous, putting you at risk of possibly losing your balance, getting dizzy or simply hurting yourself. You should hold your breath only when instructed by a qualified teacher.

Remove All Distractions

To prevent the syndrome of rising Qi, make sure you do not have any distractions during your Qigong practice. Turn off your phone and fully concentrate on the training. You gain the most benefits when you practice Qigong in a deeply relaxed state.

Practice During Sunrise or Sunset

The best time to practice Qigong is during a sunrise or a sunset, as there is a transition between Yin and Yang. However, if you practice at noon, then do more Yin forms. Noon is ultimate Yang and too many dynamic Qigong movements during this time can overheat your body.

Temperature Visualization to Balance the Body

Listen to your body to always keep it in balance. If you feel you are overheating it, imagine still cool water in your Lower Dan Tian to get more Yin energy. On the contrary, if you feel you need to warm up your body more and receive Yang energy, imagine a hot fire ball spinning in your Lower Dan Tian.

Drink Warm Water During Dynamic Practice

Drink warm water when you practice dynamic Qigong, as during this time you are trying to generate the fire Qi.

Keep a Qigong Journal

Whenever you feel a new Qi energy flow, write it down in your Qigong Journal along with the date and time of your Qigong training, weather conditions, temperature and what you were doing at that time. This will help you to determine the best time to practice Qigong.

Qigong Clothing

Try to always wear natural clothes (e.g. cotton) and take off any metal accessories and belts during your Qigong training. Choose colours that will balance you. If you feel cool, wear warming colours, and if you are hot, wear cooling ones.

For more expert advice and tips on the ancient practice, please explore the rest of Qigong blog.