Stress and the Immune System

It’s well established that stress denigrates the immune system, so while in isolation it’s imperative to regulate your autonomic nervous system, which is either in “fight or flight”, or “rest and digest”. Deep, relaxed abdominal breathing regulates the autonomic nervous system via the Vegas nerve. Deep breathing whenever you remember to do it is ideal.Continue reading “Stress and the Immune System”

Five Animal First Set

Tiger Deer Bear Monkey Bird Qigong Set 01   Mountain Pose Feet within shoulder width, outsides of feet parallel (big toes might feel slightly pigeon-toed). Aim tailbone between heels and elongated lumbar vertebrae downwards. Sternum points straight ahead, don’t arch your back up or puff your chest up. Cervical vertebrae extend upwards, they don’t leanContinue reading “Five Animal First Set”

The Three Principles of Qigong/Taiji

The practice of qigong/taiji involves three principles. Everything else about it is an outward flowing of the three. There is no hierarchy among them, they simply must be practiced together in order for each to function correctly. The principles are abstract ideals evoked by the body, therefore it is simply impossible to do them perfectly.Continue reading “The Three Principles of Qigong/Taiji”

Health for the Post-Industrialist

(Consult your primary care provider to ensure you are healthy enough to attempt the following exercises) While humans developed there was no need for an exercise routine or proper dietary guidelines. The lives of hunter-gathers consisted of copious walking, running, squatting, lifting, hurling, and bashing. Simply being alive was our active gym membership. Diet wasContinue reading “Health for the Post-Industrialist”

The Simple Guide to Health for Surviving Post-Industrial Times

1) Move every two hours. Go for a walk, do a set of mindful pushups, play with dogs, children, and friends. Do this daily, without exception. When ill, just stretch and breath deeply, when feeling good, do something more strenuous. 2) Don’t eat processed foods. Ever. For any reason. This way, when you must, inContinue reading “The Simple Guide to Health for Surviving Post-Industrial Times”