Baduanjin qigong
Qigong (chee-gung) is a Chinese martial art that benefits the whole person. Qigong breathing techniques can calm and ease tension-related conditions, such as headaches. Qigong guides and develops qi, the life force of all things, resulting in physical, mental and spiritual benefits.
Breathing
The website chikung-unlimited.com suggests practicing alternate nostril breathing to stimulate whole-brain functions and to promote balance between the brain's right and left hemispheres. Inhaling through the left nostril stimulates right brain functions, or holistic thinking. Inhaling through the right nostril awakens left hemisphere brain activity, or linear thinking. Alternate nostrils for healthy brain balance. Alternate nostril breathing provides needed oxygen to the brain and can relieve headache pain.
Self-Massage
Perform a simple self-massage after qigong breathwork or meditation. Mnwelldir.org describes different levels of self-massage. The most basic form involves rubbing your hands together to create friction. Then make washing motions over your face and head. Alternate squeezing hard and softly around your head to balance the qi. This simple exercise is a good way to start the day or to end a meditation session.
The Five Animal Frolics
Wisdomtaichi.com teaches a qigong exercise called the Five Animal Frolics, an ancient technique that applies the qualities of the crane, bear, monkey, deer and tiger. The corresponding qualities are relaxation,strength, flexibility, grace and power.Regular practice of the Five Animal Frolics is said to stimulate healthy bodily organs.
Tags: Animal Frolics, Five Animal, Five Animal Frolics, Inhaling through, nostril breathing