Qi Gong and Addiction Recovery: A Powerful Support

Addiction recovery is a profound process that requires healing on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels. Traditional psychological therapy plays a crucial role, but complementary methods like Qi Gong can enhance this process. At Changes, South Africa, Qi Gong is used to promote body awareness and develop a deeper connection with oneself.

Qi Gong: Support for Addiction Recovery

What is Qi Gong?

Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, breathing techniques, and focused intention. The goal is to balance the body’s energy (Qi) and promote both physical and emotional well-being.

Qi Gong can help with:

• Muscle tension and skeletal alignment
• Energy blockages and reduced vitality
• Weak organs and poor circulation
• Mental harmony and stress reduction

One of the great advantages of Qi Gong is that it requires no religious belief. It is an accessible, evidence-based method for relaxation and healing, similar to yoga.

Personal Experience with Qi Gong

I discovered Qi Gong and meditation during a personal crisis and have personally experienced its profound benefits. After being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, Qi Gong gave me a new way to cope with pain. Instead of resisting it, I learned to approach pain with curiosity and gentleness. This brought me not only physical relief but also emotional strength and acceptance.

By practicing Qi Gong in a community, I felt more grounded and connected to the present moment. Even during difficult times, this practice gave me a sense of vitality and inner peace.

Qi Gong and the 12-Step Program at Changes

At Changes, psychological therapies are used to help clients in the 12-step program navigate their inner conflicts and mental confusion. Qi Gong enhances this process by:

• Improving muscle relaxation, flexibility, and strength
• Optimizing skeletal alignment and energy flow
• Promoting mental calmness and emotional stability

These benefits help clients tap into their inner resources, empowering them to heal and create positive changes in their lives.

What to Expect?

In the upcoming articles, I will further explore how Qi Gong helps with:

• Stress reduction and emotional regulation
• Physical healing and detoxification
• Mindfulness and awareness
• Craving reduction and relapse prevention
• Emotional healing and the power of community practice

Would you like to learn more about Qi Gong and addiction recovery? Stay tuned for in-depth insights and practical exercises.

Dirk Geelen, Mindfulness Psychotherapist