What is Qigong and Tai Chi?

• Qigong and Tai Chi initiate the “relaxation response,” which is fostered when the mind is freed from its many distractions. This decreases the sympathetic function of the autonomic nervous system, which in turn reduces heart rate and blood pressure, dilates the blood capillaries, and optimizes the delivery of oxygen and nutrition to the tissues.
• Qigong and Tai Chi alter the neurochemistry profile toward accelerated inner healing function. Neurotransmitters, also called information molecules, bond with receptor sites in the immune, nervous, digestive, endocrine and other systems to excite or inhibit function to moderate pain, enhance organ capacity, reduce anxiety or depression, and neutralize addictive cravings.
• Qigong and Tai Chi enhance the efficiency of the immune system through increased rate and flow of the lymphatic fluid and activation of immune cells. Resistance to disease and infection is accelerated by the elimination of toxic metabolic by-products from the interstitial spaces in the tissues, organs, and glands through the lymphatic system. 
• Qigong and Tai Chi increases the efficiency of cell metabolism and tissue regeneration through increased circulation of oxygen and nutrient rich blood to the brain, organs, and tissues.
• Qigong and Tai Chi coordinate and balance right/left brain hemisphere dominance promoting deeper sleep, reduced anxiety, and mental clarity. 
• Qigong and Tai Chi induce alpha and, in some cases, theta brain waves which reduce heart rate and blood pressure, facilitating relaxation, and mental focus; this optimizes the body’s self-regulative mechanisms by decreasing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. 
• Qigong and Tai Chi moderate the function of the hypothalamus, pituitary, and pineal glands, as well as the cerebrospinal fluid system of the brain and spinal cord, which manages pain and mood as well as optimizing immune function.
• Qigong soothes the brain and Tai Chi rewires the brain. 

Yes, of course.  All doctors knows that moderate exercise such as Qigong & Tai Chi has a beneficial effect on the heart, blood circulation, and joints.  They are now becoming more aware of the beneficial effects of deep breathing and meditation on the nervous system, mood, cognitive function and memory. Nevertheless, if you have a specific ailment that limits your range of motion or strength, or any chronic illness or health issue, you should always check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen. 

Absolutely.  Qigong & Tai Chi practice will enhance other forms of exercise, such as working out at the gym, jogging, or doing yoga.  Pilates, or any other form of movement. 

I encourage people who work out hard to balance their strenuous physical activity with Qigong & Tai Chi,  Qigong & Tai Chi will help the body and mind to relax and recover, and it helps keep the joints lubricated, which prevents or lessen chronic pain. 

It is said that moving the body helps move the mind out of the feeling of "being stuck."

Qigong & Tai Chi does not require that you wear special clothing. Keep in mind that any loose-fitting comfortable clothing is the best Qigong & Tai Chi uniform, easy to move around and for air flows. i.e. t-shirt and loose fit work out pants.

Also wear flat and flexible sneakers that provide support and easy to turn and flex your feet, however,  you may choose to do bare feet.

Classes available  in the Cave Creek, Carefree and Anthem Arizona areas.