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During significant periods of change, ancient wisdom from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers us modern-day counsel to align with the rhythms of nature. We can do this by fortifying our felt sense of groundedness, centeredness, and presence—even when we find ourselves standing on shaky ground. Explore the following practice as an opportunity to befriend the unpredictable and unfamiliar nature of change as you realign with nature and your core. massagetherapy.com—your resource for all things bodywork 11 CENTERING BREATH QIGONG 1. Stand or sit with your feet hip-width apart or wider. Feel yourself rooted down and lifted up at the same time. Visualize yourself as a bridge between heaven and earth. Rest your hands palms up in front of the base of your belly. 2. Slowly float your right arm out to the side and inhale as you continue to lift your outstretched arm over your head. 3. As you exhale, make a half-prayer shape with your right hand as you trace the centerline of your body from above your head, down through your forehead, sternum, and navel, and then return back to starting position. Repeat this same flow with your left arm to complete the circle shape and bring your centering energy and intention down the axial highway of your central nervous system. Continue to flow with alternating arms and equal breaths until you feel calm, centered, and aligned. Imagine the light of your attention growing brighter in your belly with each exhale as you return your hands to your center. 4. Just before you complete this exercise, pause and gently press your half-prayer knuckle of your thumb into the space between your brow on your forehead (your third eye), and breathe for one full inhale and exhale. 5. Then, descend your half prayer to the sternum and pause at your heart space for a full breath in and out. Repeat with your opposite hand. When you feel complete, gather your flowing energy into your belly by resting your hands palm over palm over your lower belly (or dan tien). Pause and notice how you feel. Trust in the energy you create. Trust that your energy knows where to go and your body knows how to heal itself. Heath and Nicole Reed are co-founders of Living Metta or Living "Loving Kindness." The Reeds have been team-teaching national and international workshops and retreats since 2001. They place a strong emphasis on growing body intelligence, intuition, and self-care. Their bodywork, self-care videos, webinars, home-study courses, and more can be found at livingmetta.com. 1 2 3 4 5