Tingling Fingers--what is that?

The subject of qi or chi energy has popped up in several of my studio classes this past week. It seems that more and more students are feeling the effects of the universal energy generated through tai chi and meditative practices. What is exciting to me is that the students feeling these sensations are interpreting this ability as positive and enjoyable. They are, in fact, loving these feelings and coming back to learn how to make them more intense. So why am I excited? This will take some explaining, so let me tell you.

If a student is unprepared to experience qi energy, they may be taken off guard by the intense vibrations that this energy can produce in the hands, arms, back, or feet. And although it may take some time for some people to feel their qi, these intense feelings may manifest themselves within the first few lessons or even immediately in some cases.

I have seen a few students (not in my classes) become quite concerned about qi energy and mistakenly think that practicing tai chi, meditation, or qigong may be harmful. When in fact, enhancing your awareness of qi energy helps your circulation and brings healthful benefits to the whole body.

This is why I talk about the health benefits of qi energy in my beginning classes and continue to define and explain it to my continuing students. It's something to experience and enjoy. It's your connection to the universe.

Namaste