What is it about being outdoors in Nature that is so refreshing? When you’re breathing fresh air and taking in the natural sounds around you, don’t you feel closer to our Earth?
In Body & Brain we have a saying, “We are Nature.” Why? Because according to ancient wisdom, everything natural on Earth is connected by Qi, the vital energy of life. Humans and all life forms have Qi.
The month of April, Earth Month, is typically full of outdoor learning activities about how to protect or restore our natural environment. Besides learning practical skills, we hope you’ll consider adding an experience of Qi in Nature as a way to more deeply connect with the Earth.
In Body & Brain classes, you’ll learn how to sense Qi energy in your body and use it for basic self-healing. Once you develop an awareness of Qi, you can connect with the Qi energy in Nature and fully enjoy practicing outdoors.
One of the simplest ways to develop a sense of your energy is Jigam, the art of sensing energy with your hands to quiet your thoughts and emotions. Try this easy 10-minute routine:
Once you can sense energy with your hands and feel the calming effect, then you might want to try Qigong. Qigong is a whole-body practice based on the same energy principles as Jigam. Qigong movements can help you improve your energy circulation, balance, coordination and leg strength. Body & Brain Master Chungsuk created this simple moving meditation to help us connect to the Earth:
After learning to sense Qi energy through Jigam or Qigong, try practicing these moving meditations along with the sounds of Nature. If you can’t get outside, enjoy these pre-recorded nature videos from .
Enjoy powerful water energy while you practice Jigam or Qigong. The sound of flowing water can help you clear your mind, calm your emotions and relax for deeper sleep:
This video brings you the sights and sounds of Arizona’s Red Rock Country. As you practice Jigam or Qigong, receive powerful wind and earth energy as the clouds drift by the majestic pillars of Cathedral Rock in Sedona.
To learn more about Body & Brain, check out this video:
Then go to our website, / and schedule an online or in-person visit – we’d love to meet you!
For more about our energy connection with the Earth, we recommend these books:
, Ilchi Lee (2019) , Ilchi Lee and Emanuel Pastreich, PhD (2016).