Qi = vitality, energy, life force
Gong = practice, cultivate, refine
Qigong = to cultivate and refine, through practice, one’s vitality or life force

Benefits

• Increases overall energy and awareness of breath
• Builds strength and improves balance and coordination
• Lowers blood pressure
• Improves the cardiovascular system
• Lowers stress and depression
• Reduces addictions
• Increases range of motion and stamina
• Reduces reliance on medicines
• Relaxes the connective tissue that holds the internal organs in place

Methods

Qigong takes one on an enlightening journey which promotes a keener sense of self-awareness through breath and moving meditation, bringing one closer to one’s true nature. Nearly all systems of the body are addressed and improved by Qigong’s distinct practices. Qigong can practiced in everyday life, and can be customized for people with special needs.

Environments

Carol Reed offers private Qigong sessions in the Berkeley/Bay Area.

Background

Carol Reed has over ten years of studies in Qigong including courses with Gilles Marin, founder of the Chi Nei Tsang Institute in Oakland, California. She has also studied with Roger Jahnke, OMD, an internationally known doctor of traditional Chinese medicine, and completed a year long intensive study of Medical Qigong with Suzanne Friedman. Presently she is completing her Masters degree in Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture with one year of acupuncture school at AIMC in Berkeley, and continuing studies at the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences in Oakland.

Origins of Qigong