QiGong's Benefits for Peri-Menopausal and Menopausal Stress Relief
Midlife is a time when we experience great changes in our bodies and minds. Perimenopause and menopause are often associated with stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil. Unfortunately, many of us still suffer in silence. A recent guest to the MenoLounge, coach Jolinda Johnson recommended QiGong as a natural solution for burnout and stress relief. We wanted to take a closer look at this practice that has been gaining popularity in recent times. Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that has been used for centuries to improve overall well-being and energy flow.
Understanding QiGong
Qigong is rooted in Chinese medicine, philosophy, and martial arts. The term Qigong (pronounced chi gong) is made up of two words, Qi (meaning "life energy" or "vital energy") and gong (meaning "skill gained through practice"). The basic concept of Qigong is to move, breathe and focus in a way that enables you to cultivate and manage your Qi or life energy. By doing this, you can improve overall health and well-being.
How Qigong Works
The practice involves specific breathing techniques, gentle movements, focused concentration, and meditation. These practices are reinforced by QiGong stance and sitting with proper spinal alignment, in the same way as yoga positions. These practices work together to move energy through your body, improve blood circulation, reduce tension and stress, and increase positive emotional states. Over time, the regular practice of Qigong can stimulate the body's natural healing ability, improve organ function, and strengthen the immune system.
Benefits of Qigong for Perimenopause & Menopause
As mentioned earlier, the hormonal changes happening in perimenopause and menopause are very challenging for many women, and can result in stress, anxiety, and sometimes, depression. Qigong is an excellent natural solution that offers significant benefits for managing the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. The practice reduces stress hormones, improves sleep quality, balances out the extremes of heat and cold often encountered in this time and reestablishes the information flow within the body by putting everything into the balance. It also strengthens bones, joints, and muscles and can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Two Expected Outcomes From Practicing QiGong
Improved Concentration and Focus: The practice helps to keep your mind present and centered, helping you make decisions with clarity and without fear. Improved concentration is key to retaining information, improving memory and mental health in general.
Increased Energy: In perimenopause and menopause, many women find they lack energy, often due to hormonal changes and other lifestyle factors. Qigong techniques can help you to improve your energy levels by increasing the circulation of vitality, oxygen, and thoroughly energizing the body.
Qigong is an ancient and natural solution that has significant benefits for stress and perimenopause/menopause relief. It involves gentle exercises, meditation, and breathing techniques that promote mental and physical wellbeing. Regular practice of QiGong stimulates the body's natural healing abilities, strengthens the immune system, and significantly reduces stress. Along with improvements to your diet, like including adequate fiber and protein found in MenoWell bars, incorporating Qigong into your lifestyle provides a natural, alternative solution to gain back your vitality and become healthier and more resilient at every stage of life.