About Cape Cod QiGong
The 5 Elements - Wood
The 5 Elements are a generational cycle in nature. They are associated with colors, organs and systems of the body, and emotions of the mind.
The WOOD element is associated with the color GREEN. Here we like to think of a TREE. The organs are the LIVER and GALL BLADDER. Related emotions are ANGER, with the goal of transitioning to KINDNESS/FORGIVENESS.
When we focus on the Wood element in QiGong, we are working with the Nervous System. Here, we learn to re-wire our Nervous System, which is the brain’s response to everyday stress. The Wood element focuses on strength and flexibility - like a TREE - as well as longevity. The liver is our longevity organ.
The 5 Elements - Fire
The FIRE element is associated with the color RED. Here, it’s nice to think of the SUN. The organs are the HEART and SMALL INTESTINE. Related emotions are IMPATIENCE/FRUSTRATION, with the goal of transitioning to JOY/LOVE.
When we focus on the Fire element in QiGong, we are working with the Circulatory System. This helps to improve circulation to your heart, so you have greater mental clarity, less fatigue, and more energy. And these practices help us to expand our capacity for unconditional love.
The 5 Elements - Earth
The EARTH element is associated with the color YELLOW. It's nice to think of the SAND on our beaches here. The organs are the STOMACH/SPLEEN/PANCREAS. Related emotions are WORRY/ANXIETY, with the goal of transitioning to COMPASSION.
When we focus on the Earth element in QiGong, we are working with the Digestive System. This helps us nurture our Digestive system so our body can effectively transform the food we eat into useable energy for our entire body. It also helps to deepen our ability to listen and empathize with others.
The 5 Elements - Metal
The METAL element is associated with the color WHITE. Most commonly thought of are ROCKS/STONES. The organs are the LUNGS and LARGE INTESTINE. Related emotions are SADNESS/GRIEF, with the goal of transitioning to COURAGE.
When we focus on the Metal element in QiGong, we are working with the Respiratory System. These movements help to energize our lungs and eliminate fatigue, so you can be yourself fully, and help those in need. Our lungs, they say, are the ‘commander of Qi’, and help us to release toxins and emotional stress, so that we can be stronger.
The 5 Elements - Water
The WATER element is associated with the color DEEP BLUE, like the OCEAN. The organs are the KIDNEYS and BLADDER. Related emotions are FEAR, with the goal of transitioning to GRATITUDE.
When we focus on the Water element in QiGong, in addition to the Kidneys and Bladder, these movements focus on the Bones and Joints. They develop strength and power, and flow and flexibility, like the waves of the ocean. They help to balance the energy in our body, so that we can appreciate all that life offers.
Our Instructor
Andrea has been practicing QiGong for over 7 years. She was hooked after her 1st session, and knew this was what she wanted to do as she headed into retirement. "Our inter-connectedness and inter-dependence with Nature is healing, both to ourselves, and to this great planet we live on. QiGong gives us pause to feel that connection, and to be grateful for it and all that Mother Earth has to offer."
She studied under:
*John Milton at the Kripalu Center in Stockbridge, MA. The Kripalu Center in Stockbridge, Massachusetts focuses on enhancing health and personal well-being through yoga, nutrition, mindfulness and other supportive practices.
John P. Milton is the founder of Way of Nature. One of the founding fathers of the environmental movement, John P. Milton has studied extensively many of the world's great spiritual traditions with enlightened masters and in deep communion with Nature. Through Way of Nature, John introduces students to the power of immersing oneself in Nature, in combination with cultivating universal energy - QiGong. People who have been through his trainings, report an improved ability to handle stress, amplified access to creativity, renewed joy in life, and a healthier sense of being.
* Completed Certificate in Energy Medicine, Cape Cod Community College. Focused on various Energy Medicine therapies including Meditation, Music & Sound, Therapeutic Touch, Accupressure, and QiGong.
* Completed Medical QiGong Practice Leader Certificate Training, from the Institute of Integral Qi Gong and Tai Chi, under Dr. Roger Jahnke.
Roger Jahnke, O.M.D. is a doctor of Classical Chinese Medicine with thirty years of clinical practice and eight research trips to China to study its ancient healing traditions. He is Founder and Director of the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi and serves as a consultant to hospitals, social service agencies, and corporations.
* Completed 5 Element QiGong certification under Lee Holden.
Lee has devoted his career to helping others learn the powerful principles of QiGong.
He teaches that anybody, at any age or fitness level, can use these moving meditation techniques – not only to improve physical fitness, but also to assist in recovery from injury and illness, to achieve a deeper sense of calm, and to relieve tension and stress.
*Member of the National QiGong Association.