Qigong for Vertigo
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), vertigo is often attributed to a deficiency or imbalance in the body’s vital energy, known as “Qi”, specifically relating to the liver and kidney systems. It can also be linked to what’s known as “phlegm dampness,” which obstructs the clear yang (energy) rising to the head, causing the dizzy sensation.
Here are some Qigong tips, tricks, and movements that might help manage vertigo:
🌬 Shaking the Tree (Qi Shower)
This movement involves gentle shaking of the entire body, starting from the feet and moving upwards, which helps to relax the muscles and clear the mind. It’s believed to dispel negative energies and stress, improving the flow of Qi throughout the body.
Full Routine Here
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🌿 The Eight Silk Brocades (Ba Duan Jin)
This is a set of eight exercises that are excellent for enhancing general health and balancing the body’s energy. Specific movements within the Eight Brocades can be particularly beneficial for vertigo, such as:
– Two Hands Hold up the Heavens: This move stimulates the Triple Burner, which helps harmonize the energy levels of the body.
– Looking Backwards: This can prevent and cure tension and neck issues, which are sometimes linked to vertigo.
Full Routine Here
💪 Shaolin Standing (Zhan Zhuang)
Shaolin Standing is highly effective for vertigo as it retrains balance, strengthens stabilizing muscles, and improves inner ear function. By holding a rooted stance, it enhances proprioception, recalibrates the brain’s balance signals, and promotes blood flow to the head, reducing dizziness. The deep, meditative breathing calms the nervous system, lowering anxiety-related vertigo, while the strong postural engagement prevents instability and falls. Over time, this practice naturally restores equilibrium, making it a powerful, holistic approach to vertigo relief.
Full Routine Here
🚶♂️ Walking Qigong
This form involves walking in a relaxed and mindful manner, coordinating the breath with slow, deliberate steps. It’s excellent for grounding the body’s energy and can be very stabilizing for those experiencing vertigo.
Full Routine Here
Additional Tips:
📅 Regular practice: Consistency is key in Qigong. Regular practice can help maintain the balance of Qi in the body, preventing episodes of vertigo.
🌬 Deep, abdominal breathing: This helps to calm the mind and stabilize the body, reducing the likelihood of vertigo attacks.
🕴️ Focus on posture: Maintaining a good posture during exercises ensures the correct flow of Qi, which can prevent the imbalance that leads to vertigo.
Integrating these practices into your routine might help alleviate the symptoms of vertigo. However, it’s important to approach these exercises with patience and, if possible, under the guidance of a knowledgeable Qigong instructor or TCM practitioner to ensure they are done correctly and safely.