Zen Ki Yoga follows the traditional oriental medicine and macrobiotics which are based on the 5-element theory, the principles of yin and yang.  While Zen Ki Yoga is a fabulous exercise system, it is much more than that as it addresses the emotional, psychological and spiritual levels, making it a powerful tool to address almost any issue.  The majority of people who come to yoga in the western world are not interested in the emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects, only the physical.  While this is frowned upon by many yoga purists, I find that if you are at least interested in the physical, the other levels will change for you anyway and eventually most people gain a deeper level of understanding on all levels anyway.

All Zen Ki Yoga poses are possible for all people to perform.  If we find difficulty performing any poses, it reflects the declining state of our body’s health.  The good news is that if we persevere with these poses, they will become easier as the body actually makes changes and we move toward better health.  Said in another way, Zen Ki Yoga makes changes to your health and your body, even changes that you thought were never possible!!  I have been in the health/fitness industry for over 17 years now and have never found anything else that gives anyone faster changes.

This yoga is based on the meridian system.  The 12 major meridians are energy pathways in which ki (energy/life-force/prana/chi) moves through out the body.  When ki (pronounced ‘key’) is not flowing correctly, disease or illness is the result.  We believe that illness, whether of the body, mind or emotions, can be corrected by addressing the ki in the body and ensuring that it flows in harmony so that the body, mind and emotions are balanced.

Let’s take a brief look at the 12 meridians and the 5 elements/seasons...

Late Summer

meridians - Spleen & Stomach

element - Earth

imbalances may show up as:

poor digestion, immune system, sugar cravings, weight issues, eating disorders, appetite, menstrual pain and irregularities, aversion to humidity, sagging flesh, worry, the mind

balanced meridians:

good digestion, no cravings, clear and balanced mind, considerate, sympathy

Autumn

meridians - Lung & Large Intestine

element - Metal

imbalances may show up as:

respiratory issues including asthma and sinus, colds and flus, hay fever, allergies, constipation, diarrhea, skin rashes and eruptions including acne and boils, menstrual pain, tension in shoulders, poor circulation in lower hara, inability to let go, insecurity, grief, sadness, heaviness in buttocks and thighs, cellulite

balanced meridians:

positivity, happiness, clear skin, ability to let go, security, good self-esteem

Winter

meridians - Kidney & Urinary Bladder

element - Water

imbalances may show up as:

overactive or under active sex drive, impotence, baldness, premature aging, infertility, prostate problems, back pain, bladder strength/incontinence, problems with nervous system, ear problems, bone problems, depression, fatigue, fear

balanced meridians:

motivation, confidence, courage, inspiration, will, drive (get up and go!)

Spring

meridians - Liver & Gall Bladder

element - Wood

imbalances may show up as:

toxic blood, lack of flexibility, weak joints and tendons, arthritis, weight gain/loss, anger, quick temper, frustration, impatience, eye sight, hip problems, tightness sides of body and inner thighs, genital problems, brittle fingernails, excessive behaviour, disorganised, addictions

balanced meridians:

patience, ability to plan ahead for future and be organised, flexibility in mind and body, endurance, creativity, spirit of adventure

Summer

meridians - Heart, Small Intestine, Triple Heater & Heart Constrictor

element - Fire

imbalances may show up as:

high blood pressure, circulation, anxiety, poor communication (internal and with others), stuttering, excitability, heart problems, digestive issues, upper back pain, excessive sweat, imbalanced psychological behaviours

balanced meridians:

overall feeling of calm joy, peacefulness, gentleness, feeling of unity, intuition

Check Zen Ki Yogazine for further upcoming articles about Zen Ki Yoga.

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