QiGong

My friend invited me to come to a free class. I did a little bit of this kind of thing at the YMCA once and it was complicated but not difficult. I need to add movement to my health initiatives, so I figure why not? Besides, it will give me time with my friend! Bonus!

I pull into the church parking lot and wait a few minutes until I see someone else going inside. I follow along, remembering the setup of the halls, where the bathrooms are. It seems a lifetime ago that I directed music here. We will work in a large spacious room where the walls are painted in quaint Bible scenes with palm trees and artwork hung on the walls.

We spread out, giving ourselves room to move freely and begin warming up. The goal is to move every joint in our bodies, to limber up slowly. It takes a full 20 minutes to work our way from our heads to our toes, but it feels good, and I can actually execute all the moves without falling over or half doing the maneuver. The leader's quiet voice walks us through each movement accompanied by a CD of nature music - rain and bamboo flutes and birds chirruping. It is very peaceful.

Then our leader directs us to begin a pattern of movements that tell a story. She describes each move with colorful phrases like "Tiger Pushes Mountain" and "Comb the Peacock." I giggle at some of the images. I know these moves are choreographed fighting, but it doesn't feel like I am defending myself against anything other than stiffness and immobility.

We end by stretching and shaking out, then bowing to each other. I feel a little silly, but I also feel wonderful! My blood is circulating steadily and my breathing is deep, not labored. I think I am going to like this a lot! I am a bit concerned that I may feel stiff tomorrow, but I enjoyed our hour of moving. It is perfect for an aging Baby Boomer like myself. And fun! I am already looking forward to next week.