Over the course of these five days, you’ll explore the philosophy of qigong. How did qigong develop? What do yin and yang mean, and what lies behind the concept of qi, the life energy? Your program leader, Nora, will take you on a journey where the answers to these questions become tangible. Your practice begins with basic postures, simple movement sequences, and breathing exercises. Meridian exercises illustrate the life energy flowing through the body and demonstrate how Qi Gong can contribute to holistic health. Through these exercises, you’ll strengthen your immune system and discover ways to release stress. You’ll also practice advanced techniques and learn exercises to balance your emotions. Through repetition and deepening your practice, you’ll be able to integrate Qi Gong into your daily life. And so you will return from your retreat with a deeper connection to yourself.
The program is suitable for beginners as well as for experienced practitioners who wish to refresh their practice.
Detailed Program:
Day 1, Arrival Day
Introduction and Basics
Afternoon:
• Theory: History and philosophy of Qi Gong, the concept of Qi (life energy), Yin and Yang, the theory of the five elements
• Practice: Gentle movements, basic posture, initial breathing techniques
Day 2
Meridians & Health
Before breakfast:
• Theory: brief overview of the most important meridians in the body
• Practice: exercises to strengthen and harmonize the meridians
Afternoon:
• Theory: Qi Gong and health
• Practice: health-promoting exercises to strengthen the immune system and manage stress
Day 3
Deepening and Application
Before breakfast & afternoon:
• Practice: intensive practice of the forms already learned, Q&A
Day 4
Advanced Techniques
Before breakfast:
• Theory: advanced concepts and introduction to topics such as Dantian (energy center)
• Practice: Focus on the lower Dantian, exercises to strengthen and focus life energy
Afternoon:
• Theory: Qi Gong and emotions
• Practice Part 1: Exercises aimed at balancing emotions and transforming emotional states
• Practice Part 2: Review and consolidation
Day 5, Departure Day
Integration and Conclusion
Before breakfast:
• Theory: Integrating Qi Gong into daily life
• Practice: Review of what has been learned and a concluding exercise that integrates all the techniques learned and harmonizes the flow of energy throughout the body
Program content and schedule are subject to change.