No charge for classes; donations to Survivor Wellness are always welcome.
Coordinate breath and movement for strength and stability.
ABOUT QIGONG (pronounced "chee-gong"):
QIGONG originated more than 5,000 years ago in China, and is a basis for the warrior skills of martial arts and meditation. The word "Qi" means 'energy' or 'life force', and "Gong" means 'skill that is cultivated through steady practice' in the Chinese language. Thus, "Qigong" means "cultivating the body's vital life energy," and then using it to heal and strengthen the vital energetic systems throughout the body. It is a simple, effective self-care practice which can improve health and overall well-being.
Qigong classes combine flowing movement, gentle stretching, breath practice, self-massage and meditation/mindfulness for health, vitality, energy, balance and inner peace.
Qigong can be practiced standing or seated and is appropriate for all levels and abilities. No experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring water as needed. Instructor will assess physical capacity at the beginning of class and adjust or offer modifications for all bodies.
ARTICLES about Qigong:
ABOUT STRONGER THAN CANCER Class:
Stronger Than Cancer is a Foundation Training class. Foundation Training is a simple solution that gives you the means to change the way you move
and correct imbalances caused by our modern movement habits.
Through a series of body-weight exercises, Foundation Training teaches you to take the burden of supporting the body out of your
joints and put it where it belongs - in your muscles. Foundation Training combines powerful bodyweight movements, intentional postures, and focused breathing to integrate muscle groups.
With regular practice, pain diminishes, injury resistance increases, and your body reawakens. Strengthening the torso, pelvis, and backside are encourages the hips to resume their natural role as the center of movement. Exercises to decompress the spine help create space in your torso, expanding your breathing capacity. Over time, your muscles better support your structure, posture improves, and physical movement becomes more integrated and efficient.
No matter your age or fitness level, Foundation Training puts you on the path to wellness.
No experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring water as needed. Instructor will assess physical capacity at the beginning of class and adjust or offer modifications for all bodies.
Relax your body and mind in this restorative experience of sound.
ABOUT SOUND BATHS:
A sound bath is a therapeutic practice that utilizes the power of sound and vibration to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support overall well-being.
During a sound bath session, participants are invited to lie or sit comfortably while the practitioner plays various instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and drums.
As the resonant sounds and gentle vibrations fill the space, participants may experience a sense of deep relaxation and tranquility, providing a much-needed sanctuary from the challenges of cancer treatment and recovery.
No experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring water as needed. Class is held barefoot or in socks. Instructor will assess physical capacity at the beginning of class and adjust or offer modifications for all bodies.
ABOUT DEEP RELAX Class:
DEEP RELAX is a yoga-based class for rejuvenation and relaxation. Restorative yoga and yoga nidra are skillful means to bring the body to a state of balance and restore the nervous system.
By setting the body into a comfortable position, aided by the use of blankets, cushions and more, we can experience supportive rest. This class takes place on the floor, for the most part, with the support mentioned below to ensure comfort.
In yoga nidra, the instructor guides you through a meditative journey that settles the mind and enhances the effect of the restorative yoga postures.
Class ends with a short, seated contemplation practice.
No experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring water as needed. Class is held barefoot or in socks. Instructor will assess physical capacity at the beginning of class and adjust or offer modifications for all bodies.
ABOUT BREATHWORK:
Breathwork entails deep, rhythmic breathing patterns to boost oxygen intake and induce a calming effect on the body and mind. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, easing stress and promoting relaxation, while also releasing physical tension and stored emotions.
This practice enhances mindfulness, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation and bliss.
Breathwork is practiced laying down while being enveloped in music and guided visualizations. Elevate your experience by creating a sanctuary of comfort with the blankets and cushions provided, for a truly immersive journey.
HOW TO PREPARE:
See note, below.
No experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring water as needed. Class is held barefoot or in socks. Instructor will assess physical capacity at the beginning of class and adjust or offer modifications for all bodies.
NOTE: This class is NOT appropriate for those who are pregnant, have epilepsy, have severe asthma, or have a history of psychosis/psychotic episodes. Please refrain from joining if you have any of these conditions. Thank you for your understanding.
Take a moment to pause yourself...then contact us to be added to the waitlist when sessions begin again!
Need some direction in the meantime? Visit the link below to learn from and practice Mindfulness (and more) with the professional integrative medicine staff at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC).