Latest news with #Qigong
Hindustan Times
24-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
World Self Care Day: Rituals of renewal from around the world
Abhyanga: Ayurveda's healing power of touch World Self Care Day(Photos: Adobe Stock) Ayurveda practices are known for their potent rejuvenating properties. One such technique is the Abhyanga. This massage ritual, traditionally performed in the morning, involves a generous application of warm, medicated oils tailored to one's body constitution or doshas. Warm sesame oil for vata, coconut for pitta, mustard or sunflower for kapha, and gently massaging these into the scalp, limbs, joints and the abdomen. It improves blood circulation, stimulates lymphatic drainage and nourishes the skin; the practice is usually followed by a warm bath for complete rejuvenation. Far beyond a beauty ritual, Abhyanga slows ageing, improves sleep, enhances vitality and helps ground the nervous system. China's Qigong: Breath work for inner peace Qigong is a centuries-old Chinese self-care technique that combines flowing movements with meditation to balance the Qi or life force. The focus here is staying present as one syncs breath with motion. Studies have linked Qigong to improved mood and focus, as well as relief from chronic fatigue and pain. Bearing several similarities to Pranayama, one could easily practise this technique during morning meditation and even incorporate it into workplace wellness programmes as a way to recharge sans equipment. Coffee and conversations with Swedish fika Breaks are important, but in Swedish philosophy, it's all about intent. The concept of Fika, in particular, dictates intentional pauses during work, often with coffee and even a sweet treat. A study by the National Library of Medicine, USA, found that incorporating Fika significantly reduced sleepiness and improved focus. Mindful downtime fosters social bonding, morale, and chips away at burnout. From the rise of 'slow cafés' in India — think Delhi's Hinoki or Blondie in Mumbai — to short chat-and-chai breaks in workplaces, this is reflecting a culture of mindful pauses, redefining wellness in high-pressure environments. Dancing through difficulty with African ngoma In Central and Southern Africa, Ngoma refers to a rhythmic drumming tradition and is often performed at social gatherings, celebrations and healing ceremonies. It stems from the idea that music and dance to address emotional and physical distress. A somatic experience, it helps participants process emotional struggles through communal movement and support. Closer home, you can find similar energies at devotional gatherings, the Mahakal Arti in Ujjain, Ganga Arti in Banaras and chanting sessions at ISKCON temples around the country. Japanese Shinrin-yoku: Nature therapy at its best The Japanese tradition of forest bathing — Shinrin-yoku — is an immersive form of therapy where you let the forest become the healer. Originating in the 1980s, this practice was a national response to urban stress. Take a cue from actor Shahid Kapoor, who reconnected with Nature during a recent trip to Japan (pictured above). To practise Shinrin-yoku, all you need to do is slow down as you walk through the forest. Taking in the sights, sounds and scents and hugging the trees has been linked to reduced stress, lower blood pressure, enhanced immunity, and better mood. Bonus? It's easily adaptable to India's forest trails and retreats. (Written by Richa Singh)
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
This Ancient Chinese Training Technique Can Help You Build Muscle and Reduce Stress
This Ancient Chinese Training Technique Can Help You Build Muscle and Reduce Stress originally appeared on Men's Fitness. More and more people are ditching the hustle and bustle for real connection and balance—not only in their work lives, but in their exercise routines, too. Enter: Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice that promises to help you chill out. Qigong's slow pace has all kinds of benefits for the mind and body, and is different from most typical workouts men might consider. To learn more about what Qigong is, its benefits, and how to try it, we chatted with Lee Holden, master Qigong instructor and author of Ready, Set, Slow. Get ready to build muscle, improve your flexibility, and find your Is Qigong? Qigong (pronounced 'chi-gong') is an ancient practice of physical fitness, mental health, and spiritual connection, Holden explains. It combines movement, breathing, and meditation with a goal of boosting your overall health and wellbeing. 'The idea of Qigong is that men and women in ancient times would watch nature and mirror their bodies on how nature moves,' Holden says. 'So, let's say a cloud was floating across the sky—they would start to mirror the movement of that cloud into their bodies.' The practice was developed thousands of years ago in China as a part of traditional Chinese medicine, which has its roots in the country's philosophy and religion, per the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). 'In Western ideology, if we have emotional problems, we go see a psychologist. If we have a physical issue, we go see a doctor. But nobody's seeing the connections between the two. Qigong sees the connections,' Holden says. 'So if somebody is like, 'Oh, I have a headache,' the Qigong teacher is going to say, 'Well, what are your stress levels like? Let's clear your stress with these meditative movements that get you in shape as well as clear stress.'' What Are the Benefits of Qigong? First and foremost, the mental health perks of Qigong are tremendous, according to Holden, as it's a moving form of meditation. 'The idea is that everything within us is connected. So our physical fitness directly helps and facilitates mental emotional well-being.' Research shows how important exercise is for our mental health, and how mental stress and emotional stress adversely affects our physical health. For instance, depression can wreak havoc on your immune system, per a 2020 review in Brain, Behavior, & Immunity - Health. Not to mention, up to 80 percent of primary care visits are related to stress. So, stress is the cause of most of our physical ailments. 'When we exercise, it's going to help our mental health. When our mental health is better, it's going to create healing in our physical body,' Holden says. You'll also get physically stronger and more flexible when you start regularly making Qigong part of your fitness routine, Holden says. 'It's calisthenics, it's yoga-like stretches with more flow,' he says. 'You don't always have enough time to go to the gym to get exercise, go to a yoga class to stretch, and do a mindfulness meditation practice each and every day. Well, Qigong does it in synergy. In one practice, you get the benefits of all of those things.' In fact, a small 2020 study in the Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation found that those who participated in eight weeks of Qigong training gained significantly more back and leg strength than those who participated in a control group training protocol that didn't include Qigong. Researchers also found trunk flexibility was 'significantly enhanced' after Qigong training as well. Recovery days are also vital to muscle growth, per the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). As you rest, your body repairs your muscles' microtears from lifting, which results in not only stronger muscles, but more muscle mass as well. So, during the days you're not going hard at the gym, you can use Qigong as recovery 'because it's stretching, it's gentle exercise, it's calming, and it's rejuvenating on many different levels,' Holden says. What's the Difference Between Tai Chi and Qi Gong? Qigong might make you think of Tai Chi, another ancient Chinese medicine practice. Qigong and Tai Chi look similar, but they serve different purposes. Tai Chi is a martial art that uses a series of movements, often performed in a specific order, throughout the entire body. Qigong, on the other hand, is often used as a response to a specific need, whether it's stress or post-workout recovery. Why Should Men Add Qigong to Their Routine? It's important for men to have an outlet for stress and a way to deal with their mental health, Holden explains, and Qigong is the perfect option. A 2024 survey found that among the men polled, 40 percent have never shared their struggles with anyone due to fear of embarrassment or negative perceptions of them. 'That's a mistake, because mental health is so important to physical health,' Holden says. If you have high levels of stress and you're working out hard, you're creating an imbalance, Holden goes on to explain. 'If you've got lots of stress and you come home and you do a HIIT workout or you go for a run, you deplete yourself of energy,' he says. 'Men forget to slow down, to relax, to rejuvenate.' How to Get Started in Your Practice You can do Qigong every day if you wanted to, Holden says, or you could do it a few times a week in between your harder workouts. 'Some people use Qigong as a warmup before their workout or they use it as a cool-down after their workout,' he says. Either way, you don't need to dedicate a ton of time to it. Holden says all it takes is a five- or 10-minute session to reap the benefits of Qigong. 'It's a great thing to do in between working at your desk,' he says. 'Every two or three hours, stand up and give yourself a Qigong break. Loosen up the spine, stretch out the neck and shoulders, take a few deep breaths with some flows—now you're back to work more focused and more energized.' And don't worry if you have trouble with traditional methods of meditation where you sit in one place. 'Sometimes when we just sit down to meditate, it's difficult because the mind is very active and it's almost like you're in this wrestling match of quieting the mind, and then the mind starts talking, and quieting the mind again,' Holden says. 'But when you move your body, you're giving the mind an activity, so there's something to focus on in the present moment, which is your body. It makes it easier.' One of Holden's favorite beginner-friendly moves to start out with is one called 'knocking on the door of life.' Here's exactly how to do it: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, arms down by your sides. Turn from your hips and waist to the right, knocking your right arm across your upper abdomen and your left arm against your lower back. Then, turn from your hips and waist to the left, knocking your left arm across your upper abdomen and your right arm against your lower back. Continue Ancient Chinese Training Technique Can Help You Build Muscle and Reduce Stress first appeared on Men's Fitness on Jun 30, 2025 This story was originally reported by Men's Fitness on Jun 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
Hindustan Times
25-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Qigong teacher shares 1 exercise ‘Asian aunties' do to stay thin: 'I turnend 41 this year and I don't go to the gym'
In an April 26 Instagram video, a Qigong teacher explained how Qigong is a low-impact exercise routine that can be adapted to suit different ages and abilities, making it an excellent option for those looking to improve their physical and mental well-being. She said about the ancient Chinese practice: 'Why do so many Asian aunties do this, myself included? This simple Qigong movement is an incredible way to move your whole body on a daily basis. And it's completely free without any negative side-effects.' Also read | Fitness trainer shares 3 tips to melt belly fat A Qigong teacher showed how to do an exercise to 'stay thin' in an Instagram video. (Instagram/ drinktheqi) In the video, she demonstrated the one exercise she swore by to 'stay thin': She was seen holding arms relaxed by her sides and gently swinging her hands back and forth. She also used her fists to tap her hips, not so gently. In the clip, she said, 'I turned 41 this year, and I don't go to the gym, and this is how I stay thin and well. You might have seen this from all the Asian aunties doing it in the park.' 'You get a whole-body exercise' She added, 'A level up form for you is two swing in from your butt. If you push in the side of your butt really hard, there is a spot that almost hurts and that is the spot you want to hit, when you swing your arms. Also, try to hit it backwards, and you rotate your waist. You get a whole-body exercise. It is also so therapeutic, as you just let it all out. Do this for 5-15 minutes.' What is Qigong? And why is it good for you? According to a June 13, 2025 Cleveland Clinic report, Qigong (pronounced 'chee-gong'), the ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, breathing techniques, and meditation may boost mental health, immune function, balance and more. Integrative medicine specialist Yufang Lin was quoted as saying, 'These movements are easy for most people to do, and you can modify them if you need to pay attention to the form and learn it properly first. Then, you can focus on breathing and being present.' The science on the health benefits of Qigong is growing, although more studies are needed, and according to Lin: Qigong isn't a substitute for medical treatment. However, she also pointed out that it's popular as people enjoy it, and it makes them feel good. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Boston Globe
17-06-2025
- Health
- Boston Globe
The healing memory of Lenny Zakim
'Cancer is a disease that doesn't just affect your body, it affects your mind, it affects your soul, it affects your heart. It affects every relationship you have, ' he told PBS 'Body and Soul.' Yash Krishnan, 17 (left back) of Raleigh, N.C., and Luis Carlos Diaz, 15, of the Dominican Republic take a martial arts therapy class given by 'Kids Kicking Cancer' in partnership with the Zakim Center. 'To be told you have an incurable cancer means you've got to pull whatever strings you have. Some of it's prayer and faith. Some of it's very practical things like exercise and meditation and acupuncture. Certainly, some of it's in the chemotherapy and radiation. I really believe it's a failure of Western medicine not to integrate all of this.' The Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute now does all of this under one roof. Advertisement They've thought of everything here - acupuncture, massage, meditation, the expressive arts. Volunteers massage patients' hands while they get treatment. The art cart rolls into waiting areas, bringing materials and supplies to patients, families, and caregivers. Luis Carlos Diaz, 15, bows to therapist Cathy Esposito during a martial arts therapy session. The center has the soothing vibe of a classy spa. An expressive therapist demonstrates a sound bath, crystal singing bowls that promote relaxation. Advertisement In the Young Adult lounge, Dongyan Yu, an oncology acupuncturist, places five red tipped needles into the ear of a patient using a 2,500-year-old Chinese technique. 'This is the 'Gate of the Spirit,' she says. There is zero pain and within seconds, the patient relaxes. 'From the clinical study, we found it helps reduce anxiety, nausea, and pain,' says Yu, standing near a calming photo mural of a rocky forest. Jie, who asked that only her first name be used, gets an acupuncture treatment from an oncology acupuncturist, Dongyan Yu. 'Drugs will have interactions. But ear acupuncture is not a medication . . . It's your own body's healing power,' says Yu. The patient is thrilled with the treatment. 'It helps me to be more comfortable with the stomach and nausea, and also lower the anxiety level, and sometimes helps the sleep quality,' says Jie, who asked to be identified only by her first name. 'Also, it's important for the whole health system.' Over in the Mind Body studio, Ramel 'Rami' Rones, a gold medalist in martial arts, teaches Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation classes. Megan Carleton, program manager of expressive therapy and mindful practices at the Zakim Center, performs a sound bath, a meditative practice in the Mind Body Studio. 'It really helps with the side effects and symptoms that go with the treatment and the cancer. So in Western medicine, they are not too keen to tackle them . . . Here, I, as a person, treat the person as a whole … a combination of the body and the breath and the mind and the energy and the spirit.' Cathy Esposito, a therapist at 'Kids Kicking Cancer,' in partnership with the Zakim Center, brings martial arts to patients during infusion treatments at Dana-Farber's Jimmy Fund Clinic. The classes teach traditional karate and mind-body techniques. Some of it is physical but more important are the breathing techniques. Advertisement Megan Carleton conducts an online class of doodling as a sign of mindfulness meditation practice. 'If they're stressed, ' she says of patients, 'we teach breathing in the light, and blowing out the darkness.' Luis Carlos Diaz, 15, has just finished a lesson. He bows out of respect. 'It helps me with my mental health and I'm grateful every time they invite me. I'm not angry I have cancer. If this was something that God has given me, it's to make me better because I can fight it,' he says. Since forming 25 years ago, the Zakim opened a state-of-the-art center in 2017. Most services are free for Dana-Farber patients and their families. Their online programs have greatly expanded, too. Diane Tarantino receives a hand message from a volunteer as she undergoes treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. 'We have had almost one million views of our The website includes a video, 'Music heals the soul,' that explains how the center helps improve patients lives. Lenny Zakim loved music. About 100 days before he died, Zakim sat in a weakened state through a Bruce Springsteen concert at the old Fleet Center, now TD Garden. Ramel 'Rami' Rones (right), a gold medalist, teaches Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation classes. He preaches nurturing the five building blocks — the body, the breath, the mind, the energy, and the spirit. He was friends with the Boss, who performed 'Thunder Road' solo at the dedication of the Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge in 2002. But on this night, when the Boss sang 'Promised Land,' Zakim summoned the strength to rise up. He triumphantly punched his fist high into the air, smiled, and sang 'And I believe in a Promised Land.' It was the last time I saw him alive. Advertisement But his spirit endures. More than a quarter century later, kids in karate class share his same smile and drive. The human spirit, never giving up, and still reaching for the heavens. A portrait of Lenny Zakim greets visitors at the Leonard P. 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Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Exciting ‘Forever Home' announcement revealed!
We're so honored and pleased to announce that our very own SkyTracker Meteorologist Alex Wasilenko will be the Central Vermont Humane Society's Emcee for their biggest fundraiser of the year, 'Walk for Animals'. 'Walk for Animals' is slated for June 7th and it starts at 9:30 AM on the front lawn of the State House. You will be able to enjoy a walk around downtown Montpelier with other like-minded animal advocates/lovers. This is a free event that is open to the public, but you must register to join the fun. Along with the walk, there will be kids activities, various vendors, free refreshments, a pet costume contest, a trick competition, and much more. Also, back by popular demand will be the opportunity to get a professional dog headshot taken by Paul Richardson. For much more information and how to register, please be sure to visit the Central Vermont Humane Society's website. Along with the 'Walk for Animals' event coming up on June 7th, we also wanted to highlight some happenings with our friends at Queen City Cats in Burlington, Vermont. Their partners at the Queen City Cat Lounge will be hosting a guided meditation class on Wednesday this week. The Lounge describe the event by saying, 'Purr-epare to go deep into a meditative state while doing slow, gentle movements. Karen Waters (owner of Nourishing Touch) will demonstrate and repeat Qigong meditative movements along to verbal imagery and calming music. Expect to feel relaxed, restored, energized, and more connected to yourself and others.' For more information and to book your spot, you can visit the Queen City Cat Lounge website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
