It is a part of the natural cycle to hibernate during the winter months. Our body systems slow down, including our digestion and circulation. Now that Spring is right at our doorstep, it becomes more important to stoke our digestive fire and increase our circulation. Our Springtime Frolic Practice does just that. Using movements that are inspired by Hua To's Five Animal Frolics and based on movements of animals in nature, the Qigong component of this class focuses on moving Qi (or the body's natural electrical current) through the digestive meridians: Spleen/Stomach and Liver/Gallbladder. In addition, we also need to move the water Qi (which can also become stagnant in the cold) along, we also open the kidney/urinary bladder meridians.

We round out this lesson with yoga-based stretches that focus on loosening the upper body, and with balancing exercises that complement the movements of the Springtime Frolic Qigong Form. In the latter, we will also introduce the concept of fast vs. slow Qigong

This practice includes:

• Seated neck and shoulder stretches

• 9-Breath Meditation using Color Visualization for Pain Relief

• Yogic balancing exercises

• Yi Jin Jing (Tendon Changing Exercises)

• Animal Frolic Qigong Form (Bear, Deer, Crane)

There are many health benefits in doing this practice, including

• Better Circulation

• Greater Bone Density

• Stronger Lungs

• Increased Flexibility

• More Peaceful Mind

Research articles in the supporting sections are provided for science-based context.