Why Qigong is Important to Me: A Journey from Tragedy to Triumph

Why Qigong is Important?

Great question! Qigong, an ancient practice rooted in classical Chinese medicine, and holds high importance for anyone looking for holistic wellness and emotional balance.

But you might wonder, “why Qigong is important?”

For me, this question isn’t just about the practice itself, but about how it transformed my life.

In case you’re new to our blog, Chris Shelton here, and I am a Qigong master and clinical practitioner at the Morning Crane Healing Arts Center in Burbank, California. Today, I want to share my personal journey with Qigong and explain why this practice is not just a set of exercises, but a life-saving, transformative path to emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

A Troubled Beginning

My journey with Qigong began in the most unlikely of circumstances. I grew up in a dysfunctional and abusive household, which led me to start using drugs at a very young age. By the time I was in high school, I was suffering from severe digestive issues, sinus problems, and was dependent on various medications.

My life took a scary turn when I experienced my first heart attack from a meth overdose right before my senior year. A couple of months later, I had a second heart attack.

I realized then that I was on a path to either death or prison, or perhaps both. In a desperate attempt to change my trajectory, I enrolled in Taekwondo and began competing in full-contact matches.

However, my journey took another dramatic turn when I sustained a devastating back injury from an accidental kick from my sparing partner, preparing for a competition. Doctors recommended surgery and warned me that if I moved the wrong way, I might not walk again. I was at a crossroads once more, but fate had a different plan for me.

The Introduction to Qigong

Fortunately Dr Nancy Bergmann, a physician and master healer, consulted with me and had a different idea.

She introduced me to a therapist who was also a martial artist, and he started talking to me about Qi. Intrigued and desperate for a solution, I began attending Qigong classes. This was over 30 years ago, and little did I know, it would be the start of a transformative journey.

Within about six months of practicing Qigong, I experienced a profound change.

My severe digestive pain and sinus issues disappeared, and I no longer needed antibiotics or over-the-counter medications. It was a gradual realization, but one day I found myself wondering, “When did I stop living in constant pain?”

Diving Deeper into Qigong

This transformation sparked my curiosity and drove me to delve deeper into Qigong. I realized that if such a simple, specific practice and meditation could have such a significant impact on my health, there had to be more to it. I immersed myself in the study and practice of Qigong, eventually becoming a clinical practitioner in classical Chinese medicine and a Qigong master.

Sharing the Wisdom

Today, I have dedicated my life to sharing the ancient wisdom and art of Qigong with others. My mission is to empower you to be the best version of yourself and to live the ultimate life that you deserve. Qigong is not just about physical health; it is a holistic practice that encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The Benefits of Qigong

Qigong offers numerous benefits, including:

• Physical Health: Improved flexibility, strength, and balance. It also aids in reducing chronic pain and enhancing overall physical vitality.
• Mental Clarity: The practice of Qigong helps to calm the mind and reduce stress, promoting mental clarity and focus. It allows you to approach day-to-day stress and life’s challenges with a clear and composed mindset.
  • Emotional Well-being: Qigong helps in releasing emotional baggage and trauma, creating a balanced emotional state. It encourages a sense of inner peace and happiness.
  • Spiritual Alignment: Qigong is not meant to replace your spiritual or religious practices, but rather enhance your connection to God, and your spiritual practice. By connecting with your inner self and the life force energy (Qi), Qigong fosters spiritual growth and alignment, helping you to live in harmony with yourself and the world around you.

   

  Join the Journey

  At Morning Crane Healing Arts Center, we are committed to guiding you on your journey towards better health and well-being through Qigong. Whether you are new to the practice or a seasoned practitioner, we welcome you to join our community and experience the benefits for yourself.

Love and Qi,

-Chris (and Parisa)