Program Host: Vicki Dello Joio
December 9, 2021
Zhineng Qigong theory and practice points us towards cultivating consciousness. Using the body to access the mind creates an exquisite opportunity for wellness on all levels.
Our practices usually include a variety of meditations, movements, stretching exercises, breathing methods and we generally feel better when our practice ends. We often talk about changing the body and the mind, but it is really our consciousness that is most important.
At the heart of qigong is awakening and activating the conscious mind which includes expanded perception, mindfulness, and self-realization.
When we feel more balanced and healthier and in our natural state, it is much easier to sense and observe all thought patterns including those that are unpleasant and destructive. It gently opens a door to allow us to step out of limiting thought patterns and into an expanded consciousness. This is the place where repetitive thoughts of struggling, suffering and disease can be transformed.
“The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness.” Lao Tzu
How we see ourselves and the world is an inside job, one of opening the heart to compassion, contentment, and generosity.
In this talk Martha will share the principles of deep relaxation to open our hearts while letting our minds rest...this is the heart of qigong. She will describe how qigong is an excellent bridge for listening to the natural world and our body's wisdom to support our wellbeing.
Martha Blane has studied and practiced internal arts from several traditions for over 30 years. She began with the martial arts Xing Yi Quan and Ba Gua Zhang and practiced for about 10 years. During that time, she was introduced to Tui Na, Qigong and Five Elements theory. The qigong awoke in her the ability to see the unlimited possibilities for life.
Martha then turned her full attention to qigong and after searching for a few years to find a qigong teacher she met Teacher Fay McGrew who introduced her to Zhineng Qigong. After her first Zhineng Qigong weekend workshop, she knew the search was over. In 2003 and 2005, she spent several weeks in China to immerse herself fully in rigorous practice in order to explore the depths of qigong.
Martha completed a Zhineng Qigong teacher training program in 2003 and began offering classes in Hawaii and the San Diego area. She completed an advanced training a few years later and expanded her offerings to include workshops and retreats.
Her focus is to offer qigong as a way to support those who wish to live happier and healthier lives. Martha shares qigong practices, information and energy in a way that can be easily understood and received by students in a setting where there is an abundance of community, compassion and fun.
