QI GONG

About: Qigong

Qigong Defined

The word Qigong (or chi kung) is made up of two Chinese characters. Qi (pronounced “chee”) is usually translated to mean the life force or the vital energy that flows through all things in the universe. The second word, gong (pro- nounced “gung”) means accomplishment or skill that is cultivated though steady practice. Together, Qigong means cultivating energy.

What is Qigong?

Qigong is an ancient practice of energy exercises used to improve energy flow, which is over 5,000 years old. Although similar, it is not the same thing as Tai Chi, which incorporates cognition, is an internal martial art and is a more recent development.

Benefits of Qigong

Qigong integrates physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intention. It is easy and fun to do, available to even those in a wheelchair, and has been shown to lower blood pressure, increase blood circulation, improve digestion, increase cardiovascular strength and reduce stress levels. These gentle, slow movements are especially geared for those people with injuries, chronic conditions, and reduced flexibility, to enable them to gain greater mobility.

Nicole R.

Learning and practicing Swimming Dragon Qigong has rocked my world!

Helen L.

Wendy Smith is a well-known and respected teacher of Qi Gong and Tai Chi in the Rochester area. I have taken Qi Gong classes with her for many years, and I look forward to the gentle movement and healing energy the class gives me.

Wendy tailors her classes to her students’ needs. Whenever I voice a health concern, she includes a form or technique that I can put to immediate use in my home routine. I recently fell and sprained my ankle, for example, and Wendy included the tendon healing technique in the class for several weeks in a row. She gave the class a handout with instructions for the moves and made sure we all understood the technique before moving on. That technique and others have been very helpful to me – not only to heal injuries, but also to maintain health and peace of mind. Wendy’s style of teaching is organized but informal enough to encourage student feedback and clarity. She has a lovely sense of humor and patient style. Her class is a gift to this community.

John R.

I have studied Qigong with Wendy for many years, both in person and online, and am now also taking her Tai Chi class via Zoom. Wendy is a skillful practitioner of these arts and a very knowledgeable instructor who is especially interested in the health benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi. She keeps up with the field and frequently introduces us to new exercises. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and sense of fun help even beginners feel comfortable in class.

I highly recommend you try out Wendy Smith’s classes

Joe L

My arthritis and back improved with consistent standing meditation- amazing!

Scotti; Rochester, NY:

I have truly enjoyed and learned so much from Wendy at her weekly Qi Gong classes over the last several years. She is a very knowledgeable and patient teacher with a lovely sense of humor as well. I have learned so much about the Chinese concept of Qi – energy – and how movements can restore our energy and even heal. And she teaches us movements that we can do on our own at home, even providing handouts to help us remember the movements and the concepts we are working with.

Also, I appreciate that Wendy can help everyone in the class adapt the movements to their own needs and challenges since I have arthritis and have some limitations from that. Wendy teaches Qi Gong as a gentle movement exercise that can help almost anyone in a relaxing, healing, and enjoyable way!