The Macmillan Prevention & Re-enablement project is excited to be working with Qigong teacher Janice Rossiter, and earlier this month Project Manager Sally Crocker attended her Totterdown class, to find out first hand ‘what is Qigong and why is it good for you?’
Qigong has many health benefits, it is easy to learn and is accessible to all. Seated Qigong can also be offered when needed. The gentle, rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.Breathing exercise and meditation are often included in a class.”
The session was based around gentle breathing and a series of flowing movements, which were broken down in demonstrations so participants could follow the series step by step. The session was relaxed and informal, creating an atmosphere for participants to complete the movements in their own time, either standing or seated, and doing as much or as little as they felt comfortable. Speaking with participants who regularly attend the class, it was clear that Qi Gong was an enjoyable low impact activity to take part in, especially for those who had a long term health condition, or were returning to activity.
25 minutes into the class we grabbed some chairs and sat in a circle, to explore a sound bath with our voices. Having never done this before, I was pleasantly surprised how powerful it was to hear all of us humming words together like ‘moo’ and ‘buzz’. Janice tells me we were using ‘sound healing’ as a group exercise, which can have an uplifting effect on a lot of levels, including spiritual and emotional.
The Qigong classes take place every Monday from 6pm-6:55pm, at Totterdown Methodist Church, Bushy Park BS4 2AD. Be aware that the hall is reached via the front door of the church and a flight of stairs. Janice recommends wearing something warm that you are able to move around comfortably in, and flat comfortable shoes. Each class cost £7 or £6 if paid in advance in a block and are free for those using the Macmillan Taster Tokens.
Janice also offers a monthly Qigong class at the Macmillan Wellbeing Centre Southmead, who would need to be contacted directly.
The Macmillan Taster Tokens allow those aged 55+ who are a cancer patient, have previously had cancer; are bereaved, or are a carer for someone with cancer, to attend five sessions for free.
To find out more about the Qigong classes contact Janice by email Janicerossiter51@hotmail.com.
To find out more about support into physical activity and Macmillan Prevention and Re-enablement project please call the Macmillan team on 0117 353 3042.