Chi Kung
ELEMENTAL CHI KUNG Courses
Wednesday 7.30pm - 9pm
28th Sept - 2nd Nov (5 week course, no class 26th Oct, no drop in)
9th Nov - 7th Dec (5 week course, no drop in)
£49/£36 for 5 weeks
Chi Kung, means energy work, it is an ancient form of Chinese exercises with a close link to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Chi Kung is known to be the foundations of Tai Chi and aims to promote the flow of Chi (life force), whilst strengthening internal energetic systems as well as anatomical & physiological processes. Its simplistic approach makes it accessible to all ages and abilities. Flexibility is improved with joint mobilisation, as well as co-ordination and balance; concentration and circulation are few of the many benefits. Through meditative focusing of the mind and using little movements or static postures, internal and external connections to the body are made, that allow a gentle process of wellbeing and calmness to the persons mind and body.
Classes are generally between 60mins to 90mins (workshops are longer), following themes such as the 5 Elements or Animals. Taught both to groups or one to one.
Pregnancy Chi Kung, Pre & Postnatal Care
Chi Kung has a gentle approach to the body that lends itself well to supporting the natural transformative processes that occur through pregnancy. Chi Kung develops body awareness and Ushi’s work aims to encourage the ability to listen to the changing body. Pregnancy Chi Kung nurtures relaxation and balance. The meditative postures and moving forms focus on strengthening the body to sustain the back, deepening a connection with the baby, physically and mindfully preparing for child birth as well as generating breathing and focus techniques to aid the birthing process itself.
Antenatal Chi Kung
Following the birth this transitionary period is supported with Chi Kung work that acknowledges the baby’s presence whilst aiming to support the mother’s changing body. Gentle forms and postures help to strengthen and nourish the body’s continuous physiological processes that occur after the birth, as the body realigns itself. Antenatal Chi Kung helps with fatigue and aims to encourage balance and relaxation during this highly emotive period. Creating a space for mother and baby to discover being together in a nourishing environment that cultivates their wellbeing.
Urvashi Parekh-Ward (Ushi)
Ushi was drawn to Chi Kung whilst training in Thailand as a Thai Massage Practitioner. The art of Chi Kung was practiced alongside her healing work as a self-discipline for personal health care. Having discovered the regenerative effects of working with energetic systems she further explored this through 2 years of training with the Elemental College of Chi Kung, London, where she continues to advance her training.
Ushi has taught groups with mixed abilities, elderly groups, one to one tuition and tailored sessions for specific health requirements including pregnancy.
Having practiced Chi Kung through both her pregnancies, her experiential journey with this internal art has become invaluable to her work. She entered her second trimester of pregnancy whilst graduating in June 2009. These experiences have enriched her and enabled her to more deeply understand the importance of pre and postnatal care.
