Complementary exercises to improve living with lupus : Tai Chi and Reike

Extracts from a seminar presented on 21 July 2003 by Moira Grant ( Tai Chi ) and Jacqui Griffiths ( Reiki )

Tai Chi

• Tai is an ancient form of martial arts
• There are many different styles
• Tai chi consists of fluid, gentle, graceful and circular movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo
• Sun ( pronounced Soong ) style is especially appropriate for beginners and people with arthritis as it has a high stance with less stress on knees and joints. Breathing is deep and slow, aiding concentration, relaxing the body and allowing the life force of Qi to flow unimpeded through the body
• Sun Tai Chi contains a lot of Qigong movements which help breathing and relaxation
• Qigong consists of special breathing exercises often with movement or meditation
• The regular deep breathing massages your internal organs and relieves stress
• Benefits of Tai chi and Qigong include :
  • More flexibility
  • Strengthened muscles
  • Improved balance and coordination
  • Improved feeling of wellbeing

Reiki
Reiki is the name given to an ancient healing system which was rediscovered and developed by Dr Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist who lived in the 19th century. The word Reiki means Universal Life Force Energy. For many centuries it has been acknowledged that the universe is not just empty space but that it is filled with a dynamic, creative energy. In China it is known as 'Chi', in Japan as 'Ki' and in India and Tibet as 'Prana'.

Nearly every known culture has healing traditions and practices based on this life force, which is the same energy, regardless of the name one chooses to give it. The hands-on healing modality of Reiki is based on the transference of this vital energy. It is activated by touch, so applying Reiki is as simple as placing the hands on oneself or another. Reiki helps to heal body, mind and spirit. It does this by accelerating the body's own ability to heal itself physically and by opening the mind to the emotional and spiritual causes of disease and pain.

Reiki is totally positive and can never do harm. It is safe for all ages as well as for animals and plants. It relaxes and rejuvenates. It is a simple tool to reduce stress and enhance inner peace. It's a complementary therapy to traditional and Western allopathic medicine. Here in Perth it is used in I.C.U. in Royal Perth Hospital and in the Brown's Support Centre at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. Many practitioners of different therapies have added Reiki to their usual methods while some use Reiki exclusively. Reiki is very simple to learn and the rewards are immeasurable.
 

Disclaimer :
The Lupus Group of W.A. (Inc.) does not recommend or endorse any products, drugs, treatments, procedures, medical or health professional in this article. We suggest you discuss this information with your doctor or specialist.