Breathwork, or conscious, controlled breathing, is more than just "taking a deep breath." It's a precise, immediate tool that connects the analytical mind to the body's deeply calming mechanisms, allowing you to quickly shift into a flow state.

A history of Yang Family Style Tai Chi Quan

Aligning with Heaven Yang Sheng Qi Gong ( 養生氣功 ) is a set of eight standing postures that are designed to cultivate Qi, the vital energy of life. It is a deeply involving practice, both physically and mentally. To do Yang Sheng Qi Gong, you stand in each posture (A total of eight) for several minutes (recommended at least 1 minute), focusing on relaxing your body and breathing deeply. As you do this, your Qi will begin to flow more freely. To help you loosen and release the t

An article written by one of our students at The Practical Sanctuary. Photo by Adrian "Rosco" Stef on Unsplash Generally I’ve always considered myself to be relatively fit. I have a farly ok diet, I try not to eat excessively and only drink now and then. I always walk up stairs and escalators and can move around with the usual aches and pains. However, now and then, I get back pain. It starts with a bit of tension and when it gets really bad I have to lie down for a while or

Understanding Qi Gong - its roots and its benefits

In our fast-paced world, mental clarity can often feel like a distant dream. With distractions everywhere, it is easy to lose focus and feel overwhelmed. However, there is a simple yet powerful tool that can help us regain that clarity: breathwork. Breathwork techniques are not just about breathing; they are about harnessing the power of our breath to improve our mental state. By learning to control our breath, we can enhance our focus, reduce stress, and ultimately achieve g

In today's fast-paced world, stress seems to be an unavoidable part of life. Whether it's work deadlines, family responsibilities, or personal challenges, many of us feel overwhelmed at times. Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage stress and build resilience. One such method is Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art that combines gentle movements with mindfulness. This blog post will explore the numerous benefits of Tai Chi for stress relief and resilience. We will