Submitted by the Lopez Island Library
The Lopez Library is pleased to collaborate with local QiGong instructor, Claudia Elwell, to offer free introductory QiGong classes at the library every Wednesday evening at 5 p.m. and Thursday morning at 9 a.m. Qigong can be described as an ancient mind-body-spirit practice that improves one’s mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing techniques, self-massage, sound, and focused intent. These classes are intended to encourage new students of QiGong, and to offer resources that excite daily practice.
QiGong, pronounced “chee gong,” is a gentle, flowing form of meditative motion that delivers a variety of health benefits. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the principles upon which QiGong is based, energy (qi) moves through our bodies along channels called meridians. When this energy is strong and flowing freely to all parts of the body, one is in a state of good health. Disturbance and depletions of the flow, caused by long-term exposure to big and small stressors in our lives, are thought to give rise to disease or chronic pain. The calm movements and breathing patterns that comprise QiGong practice are designed to help restore a healthy, flowing balance of energy throughout the body.
QiGong is generally practiced standing up, although you can do it in any position. Elwell leads participants through a series of rhythmic, stylized, gentle and adaptable movements, including explanations of each pose and the philosophy that accompanies the practice. The library classes are free and open to all levels and ages. The classes are drop-in, on a first-come-first-served basis. Space is limited, depending upon the weather. When the weather is comfortable for being outdoors, Elwell will conduct the class outside, behind the library building, at the base of the big rock wall, and can accommodate up to 20 people. Classes will relocate indoors to the Library’s Community Meeting Room when the weather gets cold and wet and will be limited to 10 people on those days. This offering takes place the rest of September and may continue through the fall and winter months if the community expresses an interest in making this an ongoing library program. Contact malia@lopezlibrary.org or claudiaelwell7@gmail.com with any questions.
