“The majority of the exercises look so similar to the postures of modern qigong that it is possible to deduce how they were performed. The rich themes found in the dao-yin tu run like a fine thread through the fabric of qigong history and evolution.”
(Shown above) Reproduction of the Qigong exercises silk scroll (Dao-Yin Tu) found in the tomb at Mawangdui, China, in 1973, and dating from the period around 168 BCE.
Learning to strengthen life energy through Qigong
Would you like to feel harmony and blend with the nature of all things? Feel connected with your own true nature? To feel your own energy, your heart open to love and compassion, for yourself and others? To feel centered and grounded in your life and your path ahead? Try qigong!
Qigong is a powerful and ancient Chinese system of movement, standing postures and meditations. Qi (pronounced chee) is the Chinese word for “life energy” or “vital life force.” According to Chinese medicine, qi is the animating power that flows through all living things. Gong, (pronounced gung) means a dedicated practice. Thus qigong is the practice of energy cultivation.
When one is healthy in body, mind, and spirit, the qi in our bodies is clear and flowing smoothly, not blocked or stagnant. Qigong practice helps the qi in the body flow freely so the body, mind, and spirit stay in balance and in good health. It helps prevent energy blockages from developing. It can also help heal energy blockages when the body is sick.
The practice of qigong is a form of complementary medicine. If you are under a physician’s care, you should consult with your physician while practicing qigong. It is not intended as a substitute for necessary treatment by a physician.
Source: Much gratitude to my teacher, Qigong GrandMaster Ken Cohen (Gao Han) and his treatise on qigong "The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing" and to my teacher, Qigong Master Robert Peng and his book on qigong “The Master Key: Qigong Secrets for Vitality, Love, and Wisdom” as sources of depth of knowledge of qigong.
What is a session like?
Ellen teaches you specific breathing techniques, gentle movements, visualizations, and qigong meditations to cleanse, strengthen and circulate the energy (qi) in the body. Instruction is tailored to the individual needs of the client. Ellen’s goal is to bring the client to a personal practice that is achievable for them, and that allows them to feel better and happier. As the client practices the exercises and meditations, the client begins to trust that her body, mind, and spirit "knows" what it needs and learns to trust, listen and act.
What does it do?
Qigong focuses on the breath and gentle physical movements. You are relaxed in body, mind, and spirit when practicing Qigong. Qigong utilizes meditations, visualizations, and breathing techniques that benefit the whole body.
People of any age or physical condition can practice qigong.
The more one practices qigong, the more it quiets the mind and inspires a connectedness with nature and with all beings, opening the heart to inviting in awe, joy, happiness, love, compassion, and forgiveness.
How may it help me?
The benefits of practicing qigong include physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits, such as improved respiratory health, digestion, stronger immune system, more physical and mental flexibility, improved balance, and improved mood and emotional balance.
Qigong Intensives
Are you looking for an immersive experience learning qigong theory, meditations, and exercises? Ellen offers private one, two, and three-day qigong intensives at The Abbey. Feel the benefits of taking time to immerse yourself in the power of qi and qigong.
Additional Qigong Healing Techniques
If appropriate, Ellen may also teach techniques including:
A simple method of a specific Chinese chant while tapping, patting or knocking on particular energy channels and points of the body to dissipate the energetic charge around emotional issues, ultimately reducing or removing the intensity of these feelings so that you can have a happier life.
Paired Organ Meridian Chanting, a powerful healing technique that works with specific paired organs and meridian points, together with a corresponding healing sound, to heal and strengthen the internal organs.
“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.”
Ellen Petersen in Qigong Practice
Testimonials
Thorough knowledge of qigong, patience and quiet presence
“Ellen brought a youthful energy, thorough knowledge of qigong, a good listening ear, patience and quiet presence when she came to my home to give me a personal lesson. She replied quickly to my emails and adapted her assignment to my health issues. It takes many years of dedication to qigong to attain the teaching skills and to have the healing abilities that Ellen carries within. She is easy to work with, has reasonable expectations, sets fair goals and shares her vast experience willingly."
— Erica B.
. . . I am learning how to take the “movements” deeper and deeper into a true method of lifetime practice and healing
“I love studying QiGong with Ellen Petersen. She is patient, kind and generous with her time and instruction. When I started, I intended only to take a few sessions, but now I’m hooked. With her gentle guidance, and commitment to her own knowledge and understanding, I am learning how to take the “movements” deeper and deeper into a true method of lifetime practice and healing. I highly recommend Ellen to anyone who is interested in learning how to include QiGong into their life.”
— Johanna H.
A calm, patient demeanor . . . really cared about my progress and my needs
"Ellen was referred to me by my Reiki healer and from the moment I sat down with Ellen, I realized it was a great referral. I immediately felt listened to and understood as I described what I was looking for. Ellen has a calm, patient demeanor yet she energized me as she explained her process and approach. Working with her I found her to be a wonderful teacher who provided clear directions, guidance geared to my personality, and clarity about what to do and how to do it. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her and felt she really cared about my progress and my needs. She is an open, honest communicator whose vast experience as a Qigong instructor was evident and helpful to me."
– Ginny O'Brien
A resource for coping with . . . losses and restoring a calmness and clarity of thought
“After the passing of my long time personal yoga instructor and the passing of my closest friend, Ellen was recommended to me as a resource for coping with these losses and restoring a calmness and clarity of thought. Through Ellen’s patience, listening and teaching, I am using Qigong to move forward, understanding and bettering my life.”
– Tom D.