Qigong – an effective health practice

Kim Kubsch, Tai Chi – Qigong instructor

Kim Kubsch, Tai Chi – Qigong instructor

Kim Kubsch

Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions. Many healthcare professionals recommend Qigong as an important form of alternative complementary medicine. Especially for mature adults, Qigong creates an awareness of our internal health that are not part of traditional exercise programs. Most exercises do not emphasize the importance of adding mind intent and breathing techniques to physical movements. When these dimensions are added, the benefits of exercise increase exponentially.

The gentle, rhythmic movements of consistent Qigong practice can reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system.

Some practices have also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.

The easy and gentle Tai Chi-Qigong classes I teach in Sun Lakes provide each person their own individual personalization to make the practice safe and comfortable for them. For example, sit or stand and attend whenever your schedule allows. Our class motto is, “If you have pain, you are not using your brain!”

Kim’s Classes in Sun Lakes:

Easy and Gentle Tai Chi at Sun Lakes Country Club—Mirror Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd Thursdays, Mixed Level 10:45-11:45 a.m. New attendees are welcome anytime! Open to the public! No class September 12. $5 per class. All ages and abilities can enjoy the practice seated or standing. Drop-in anytime. Parking is available on west side of country club for direct access into Mirror Room.

Renaissance Luxury Retirement Living, Residents only. Tuesdays, Beginner 9:15-10:10 a.m. 9504 – Assisted Living Building; Tuesdays, Beginner 10:15-11:15 a.m. 9508 – Independent Building; all venues and classes are fragrance-free. No equipment is needed, just wear rubber-soled shoes and bring water.

Kim Kubsch is a Certified Practitioner of the American Tai Chi-Qigong Association and the National Qigong Association. She is also certified to teach PWR! Moves for Parkinson’s and Chair Chi. Each week she teaches easy and gentle Tai Chi-Qigong group classes to hundreds of mature adults at senior independent and assisted living communities, cancer support centers, churches, as well as to hospice patients.

While living in Asia, Kim first explored Tai Chi while on a job assignment in Hong Kong and China. At first glance, the slow and calm movements did not appear of interest or benefit. After a closer look, she realized the mindful movements had real purpose for any age and the ability to personalize the practice as desired. According to Kim, “the continual flowing of Tai Chi and Qigong movements are moving one’s energy through the relaxed joints of the body. Our chi or internal energy is very useful and powerful and is often compared to be like medicine in motion.”

For more information about classes focusing on safe movements, balance and fall prevention, visit www.SafeMovements.com. Kim’s Tai Chi-Qigong and balance DVD’s; Hello Tai Chi, Goodbye Stress, Forever Young Tai Chi, and Make your Balance Great Again can be purchased on her website or at any class. She can be contacted at [email protected], call 480-392-3436.