Qigong Class Schedule: September 21 - 27, 2026
Autumn: A time to gather energy
Here we are, already on the eve of the Autumn equinox. Autum corresponds to the Metal element: it’s what’s left when everything else falls away, like the clean, elegant structure of a tree after it sheds its leaves. The leaves have served their purpose, converting sunlight to energy during the warm, expansive months of summer. Now it’s time for the tree to begin to draw that energy inward, and consolidate its resources down to its roots.
Our bodies register this seasonal change, too. Can you feel it? Maybe you’re invigorated by the cooler weather. But look and feel deeper, as well. What is your body really asking for? Western sports and fitness culture coaches us to continue the expansive, forceful, heat-building exercise routines of summer. But Chinese medicine encourages us to follow nature and adjust our workout routines. We’re taught to bring more attention to gathering and consolidating our energy, chiefly through breathing practices that nourish and strengthen the lungs.
Each time we take a deep, mindful breath we draw energy down to our own physical rootedness: into our lower lungs and our body’s center, the lower Dantien, which is located about three finger widths below the navel. We sink the energy, rather than expanding it outward. This is as grounding as it sounds! In fact, in the martial arts, directing the breath into the lower Dantien is essential for building balance and strength. A well-rooted tree doesn’t fall over in the wind, after all.
Most of us need to cultivate that feeling of rootedness and stability, especially during times of seasonal, cultural, political, social, physical or emotional change: In other words, all the time. Qigong always, always incorporates breathing into the balance- strengthening exercises for the legs and lower body, thus directly enhancing both physical and emotional balance. Inspired by the Metal element, we learn to let go of the unnecessary. We breathe out the old, and breathe in the inspiring, encouraging new, which brings us right to the powerful root of the matter. We’ll explore this process together during the coming weeks, practicing movements from the Eight Brocades, Shibashi 18, and other forms that contribute deep, authentic energy to our body and spirit.
More about the lungs and the fascinating insights Chinese medicine brings to the role they play in our health and well-being in next week’s newsletter. Meanwhile, I look forward to seeing you in one or all of the classes and events, below!
Class Schedule Notes:
Qigong at the Millbrook Library: Free, live and online classes two Fridays a month! Our first class of the season is this Friday September 25th. If the weather cooperates, we’ll meet at the Greek amphitheater, Bennet Park, Millbrook. Please register at Millbrooklibrary.org; this adds you to the library’s weekly reminder email, and will alert you if we need to meet indoors, due to weather. The library will send you the Zoom link: it is NOT the same link I use for my Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday Zoom classes. (In October, library classes will be held on the 9th and the 23rd)
Qigong for Autumn, Innisfree Gardens, October 3, I PM. Qigong at Innisfree in October is particularly spectacular. The weather is cool, the leaves are rustling, and the energy of Autum is all around us. Exercises to encourage flexibility in the upper back, chest, and shoulders and spine will strengthen respiration and help build immunity. The beautiful “Flying Crane” movements will train balance skills and leg strength, while bringing a sense of inspiration and perspective. Please register at Innisfreegarden.org. Details at Qigong for Autumn — Innisfree Garden
Vassar Life Long Learning Institute: I am teaching “Unravelling the Eight Brocades” this semester. This short, 4-week course begins tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22 and is offered online only. We meet from 11:05- 12:20. Please Google Vassar Life Long Learning Institute for more information, or to register. Class size is limited, but there are still a few spots left.