Back when my knees were really bad, I really wanted to move my body, but I didn’t know how without causing myself more pain. Everything hurt, even sitting in a chair! I thought about yoga, but I knew yoga involved deep knee bends, even in some of the most relaxing poses (like child’s pose). I was scared to go to a class and be the only person unable to do child’s pose. Then I found Qi Gong.
Qi gong is like yoga’s more powerful but nicer little sister. The movements are so simple and involve almost no effort. Think about doing arm circles while very lightly bending your knees. It feels so easy. Despite the physical simplicity, there is something very miraculous about it. You get stronger, and you feel much more energetic. In fact, Qi Gong is a whole system of healing. There are movements targeted to specific body parts, emotions and ailments. It seems strange at first that these simple movements can be so healing, but the real healing comes from the mindfulness that is cultivated, just as in yoga.
I truly believe that Qi Gong is the most powerful form of mindful movement. And in Daoist tradition, the Eastern philosophy behind Qi Gong, meditation is a key component.
I’ve done a lot of different types of meditation. I’ve tried pretty much everything out there. But I can honestly say that whenever I need a real pick-me-up, the Daoist meditations are my go-to. In particular, I love the Inner Smile meditation, especially, the way it is led by Qi Gong master Lee Holden.
The meditation is very simple. Essentially, you are imagining smiling into your own body and heart. It helps to bring a real smile to your face to feel the positive energy of the smile, but technically, it’s not necessary. Think about the way you feel when someone smiles at you. You feel good right? It feels like a little lift in your spirit. That’s exactly what you are doing for yourself when you do the meditation, you are giving yourself a little lift. And in the Daoist philosophy, by bringing that positive energy to your body, you can help heal yourself.
So below, I’ve linked to the youtube audio of this meditation, as guided by Lee Holden. It’s only 10 minutes. So it won’t take up much of your day, but I guarantee you it will bring a little more happiness and energy to your day. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts!
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