In part four of the webinar series led by Feng Shui Master Debra Duneier, she took us on a health and wellness journey! She shared the powers of this intuitive art with tips to support health and well-being. Here are a couple.  And the entire Feng Shui series is now available on video. Get the details. 

Try the simple action of slowing your breathing down to crush anxiety. Deliberate deep breaths have been proven to slow activity in the brain, leading to tranquility. Cultivate breath mindfulness, by taking the time to concentrate on the feeling of slowly inhaling and exhaling. Notice where you feel the fullness of your breath. It may be the fresh cool air as it enters your nostrils, the raising of your belly on your inhalation, or the expansion of your lungs. Focus on one of these areas as you take each breath and just notice it. “Now I am breathing in, now I am breathing out.” This can further enhance the calming effect of your breathing, bringing you an overall feeling of peace. Another technique is to count your breaths; one on inhale, two on exhale, and repeat. Recent scientific studies show that if you can slow down your breathing, you can alter your state of mind. For most of us the “activity neurons” in our brains which are hyperactive, receive a message to calm down just by breathing deeply. So, you can relax your mind, by relaxing your breath.

Tai Chi is an ancient practice that combines Traditional Chinese Medicine, philosophy, and martial arts. Groups of people are often seen practicing Tai Chi together in the park. In the 12th century, it originated in China and was used as a martial art, with its graceful movements meant to be both meditative and practical. Tai Chi was introduced to the western world in the early 1900s, and since then it has gained popularity as an effective way to improve physical, mental, and spiritual health. Unlike a modern-day workout, it is more about mindful movements than intense physical activity. The skills necessary are slow breathing, concentration, and measured movements. Tai Chi offers so many wonderful health benefits and has been scientifically studied providing research with remarkable results. From improved balance and coordination to better flexibility, an uptick in cardiovascular health, and even enhanced immunity to viruses, this form of exercise is like a superpower! Breath-focus in meditation is difficult for many but tying movements to breath, may be more approachable and easier to achieve and a great way to relax your body and sharpen your mind.