Whole Person Counseling and Therapy

QIGONG TRAINING

The Chinese word "qigong" (pronounced "chee-gung") derives from two word stems, "qi" (energy) and "gong" (work or cultivation). Not only do modern somatic psychologies posit the existence of a subtle biophysical energy in the body, but also contemplative traditions which have existed for thousands of years. In the East, this energy often is referred to as qi, chi, ki, or prana. Qigong seeks to accumulate, refine, and direct through the body the very energy with which somatic psychologies seek to work. Qigong is practiced not only for physical and mental health, but also spiritual development.

There are very many similarities between Eastern and Western theories of this energy. For example, both assert that health results from the unimpeded flow of the biophysical energy through the body; dis-ease results from the energy's flow being blocked.

Still there also are important differences. Some somatic practices envision that the energy must be released or discharged from the body. Taoist theory instead claims that the energy should not be dissipated, but unceasingly accumulated so as to allow for certain spiritual transformations that are said to be possible only with the accumulation of sufficient energy.

Another important difference is that Taoists assert that qigong's restoration of the flow of qi through the body will result by itself in the transformation of personal issues. Michael's opinion is that energy work also must be accompanied by a cognitive component to effect lasting personal change. Certainly Eastern practices can restore the flow of biophysical energy to the body. Yet if one's understanding of his/her own behavior has been left unchanged through the absence of a cognitive component, then the person may be doomed to recreate those energy blockages.

As a complement to his practice of body/mind therapies, Michael is a qigong teacher who offers qigong classes and offers individualized instruction on the energy cultivation techniques of qigong. Michael has been awarded several specialty certifications as a teacher of qigong. He has practiced qigong since 1995. He has taught qigong in the greater Portland/Vancouver area since 1998.

If you woul like to learn qigong with Michael ...

I welcome you to telephone (503.226.2771) or email me to discuss qigong training. Although you are welcomed to consider indiviual mentoring in qigong practice, I recommend learning in classes that I teach, given that it is less expensive. To learn about classes that I give, feel welcome to subscribe to my mailing list, and be sure to see the "Events" page of my website.

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