QIGONG for ENERGY FLOW
QIGONG (Chi Kung) is made up of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced "chee" and is translated to mean the life force or vital-energy that flows through all things in the universe. The second word, Gong, means work or skill that is cultivated through steady practice. Together, Qigong (Chi Kung) means cultivating energy. It is an ancient Chinese practice similar to Tai Chi and uses gentle, repetitive movements while sitting or standing. The movements are performed slowly to create a meditative quality and increase energy flow in the body. The name of the movements often brings an enhanced quality to the experience, ie. 'Dancing Rainbow.' Our classes practice the style of Shenzen, Chow, and Shibashi Qigong. All levels are welcome.
YOGA for MINDFULNESS
Hatha yoga can be for EVERY BODY and experienced in a non-competitive environment, where the space is warm, light, supportive, and fun. Our gentle and moderate yoga classes are practical and benefits beginners to advanced yogis. Participating in our class is not about whether you are "good" at yoga or not. It's not achievement-based or doing poses by auto-pilot. Instead, yoga is an opportunity to spend time in your body, be attuned to the information and sensations that arrive, and staying curious. This "body awareness" approach keeps learning infinite while building a strong and healthy relationship with yourself. By noticing our physical, mental, and emotional state during yoga, we are able to practice listening to our body. We can then support our balance, strength, flexibility, and needs with kindness.
MEDITATION for AWARENESS
MEDITATION is an opportunity to observe your mind, the habits it tends to go into, and bringing yourself back to the present moment. We begin to see that we are not our minds, and we can let go of our thoughts, judgements, and reactions. In meditation, we practice a healthy relationship with ourselves as we receive information about our physical, mental, emotional, and energy state. Meditation is not "mastered" but rather a continuous journey with ourselves. Benefits of meditation include: stress relief, increased focus, clarity, insight, creativity, and release. At Hanuman Yoga Retreat & Holistic Living, we practice various types of meditation: walking, sitting, loving kindness/compassionate, zen, exploring the five senses, mantras, and more.