Context within Chinese Medicine 

Chinese Energetic Medicine (medical qigong) is one of the five branches of Chinese Medicine, the other four being acupuncture, herbs, massage (Tuina), and diet and lifestyle. Medical qigong focuses on moving energy, breath, and fascia through the body to first heal, then thrive. There are three areas of main practice in medical qigong: 1. Energetic practice of qigong, 2. Receiving treatments in medical qigong, and 3. Meditation and/or spiritual practice (one great example of both a meditative and spiritual practice is yoga).

Chinese Energetic Medicine treatments

A treatment in Chinese Energetic Medicine (medical qigong) has been compared by some to acupuncture without needles, or to applied meditation. It is generally fully clothed, lying face up on a massage table. The treatment begins with general clearing. Then we focus on clearing and bringing in new energy to the five yin organs: lungs, heart, liver, kidneys, and spleen. Finally, we address any specific physical or energetic concerns a client may bring.

Seitai Deep Tissue Bodywork (Tuina)

This bodywork helps release tensions in the soft tissues for greater comfort in the body, as well as mobility. While living and working in Japan, I practiced martial arts with enthusiasm. Due to martial arts, as well as hours at a desk at work, I developed tendonitis in my wrists and forearms, as well as stiffness and pain in my knees, hips, back, and shoulders. I consulted with a couple of doctors, and even considered giving up martial arts. I was walking up stairs one step at a time: right foot up, then left foot next to it. My great good fortune was to meet Sakata Akira Sensei, who resolved these issues and taught me Seitai.

Qigong class on Zoom

Our school’s qigong practice generally consists of three parts: 1. Clearing. Using gentle movements, we clear off old tensions. 2. Connecting. We connect to our surroundings and to nature. 3. Cultivating energy. These practices welcome new energy in to support our wellbeing. The movements are not physically strenuous, but do clear off tension and stress.