Qigong kick starts in Albany

An ancient exercise and healing technique will soon be available to Upper Harbour residents.

Albany House will now offer Qigong (pronounced Chi-Kung) to its community.

Tai Chi and Qigong practitioner and teacher Judy Zhao, said Qigong was not simply about ‘‘just exercise’’.

‘‘For the beginner, we’ll just learn some physical postures and use some breathing techniques, but at a high level, it’s a dynamic meditation,’’ she said.

Loosely translated, Qigong refers to the cultivation of life energy through practice and uses gentle movements and physical postures to improve health.

Learners will first look at Baduanjin Qigong, which has eight basic movements.

Zhao first started learning Tai Chi around 20 years ago and said both practices enhance the other.

Qigong is about balancing the body, mind and spirit, including organ function and wellbeing, she said.

After immigrating to New Zealand in 2004, the former psychology and education lecturer began offering Tai Chi classes at her local park in Glenfield around eight years ago. She has since expanded to teach in town, Northcote, Takapuna and Remuera.

❚ Qigong classes start at Albany House, 575 Albany Highway, Albany on November 13 from 9.30am-10.30am. Entry by gold coin donation. overall

SUPPLIED Tai Chi expert Judy Zhao said, at best, the practice of Qigong is a moving meditation.