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Qigong for Winter Health
by Ken Cohen
Qigong, Pronounced “chee gung”, is the self healing and preventive aspect of Chinese medicine, as well as a powerful and enjoyable way for healthy people to enhance their vitality and well being. Literally energy (qi) skill (gong), it is a system of gently exercise, breathing techniques, and meditation. With more than 90 million practitioners, qigong is the most widely practiced form of complementary and alternative medicine in the world. It is also the most scientifically tested. Experimental evidence suggests that qigong may be an effective complimentary therapy for chronic pain, stress, asthma, arthritis, diabetes, headaches, gastro-intestinal disorders and chronic fatigue. It has shown effectiveness against cancer and heart disease—the two major killers of our age.
From a qigong perspective, we can improve our health by living in harmony with the seasons. Just as the Earth has distinct qualities during different seasons; flowers in the spring and snow in the winter, Humans also have seasonal qualities and needs. Winter is a good time to go within and conserve energy. When there is the least amount of light outside, then like a candle in a dark room, the inner light grows brighter. It is a natural time for introspection, soul-searching and energy building qigong. Chinese medicine correlates the seasons with distinct elements and organs. Winter relates to the water element, the kidneys and the adrenal glands. Due to the kidneys location, their health affects the lower back, winter cold can exacerbate lower back pain. Just as water grows the wood, the water organ (kidneys) feeds the wood organ (liver). Thus when we strengthen the kidneys and live in harmony with the season, we can prevent liver related problems from developing in the future.
How does qigong recommend improving winter/kidney health? Practice inner quiet. Stress drains the kidney qi, in medical terms, it raises stress hormone levels and lowers DHEA, the body’s anti-aging hormone. In the winter, your attitude should be one of, “I can take time to nourish myself, to care for myself.” Slow down. Stop, look and listen. Root vegetables and free range meats can build inner heat. Avoid deep fried foods and excessive salads or raw foods, as these cool the body. Chinese medicine also advises cutting back on dairy, which congests the kidneys.
If you have a tendency towards cold hands and feet or are adversely affected by the cold, try wrapping a warm scarf around your waist and wear it under your jacket. This is as important as a hat on your head. You may be surprised at how warming the belly improves overall warmth and circulation. At the Boulder Holistic Medical Center, I can help you create a personalized qigong routine to address specific winter health needs. For general well being, I usually recommend Standing and Walking Meditation and the Bear Animal Exercise (described in my book The Way of Qigong). Take a lesson from the hibernating bear, the expert at conserving energy. Use the winter as an opportunity to better mange your energy and health and perhaps the long night can remind you not to give up on your dreams!
Ken Cohen (www.qigonhealing.com) is seeing clients at the Boulder Holistic Medical Center. To schedule an appointment, call him at 303-258-0971.
