Sutter qigong schedule features new class

Local residents who have resolved to move more, stress less or improve their health in 2013 may be interested in qigong classes offered by Sutter Health.

Western research has shown that the ancient practice of gentle Chinese health exercise offers many health benefits. The 10-week winter session begins Monday, Jan. 14. Classes take place at the Davis Holistic Health Center, 1403 Fifth St.

“Qigong for Healthy Aging,” which meets from 4 to 5 p.m. Mondays, is designed for active seniors and features exercises to improve balance and flexibility, enhance energy (qi), support healthy joints and bones and reduce stress.

“Yin Yang Medical Qigong — Level 1,” which meets from 5 to 6 p.m. Mondays, features a graceful, tai chi-like form designed to jump-start the body’s own capacity for healing. The form helps practitioners to soften and relax for good qi flow and also cleanses and rejuvenates the energies of the major organs.

New this quarter, “Qigong Movement, Massage and Meditation,” from 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays, focuses on self-care techniques of self-massage and acupressure point work. Students will learn how to use major acupressure points to improve physical health and emotional well-being and explore ways to make turn these practices into a kind of meditation. Flowing movements will help students reintegrate and balance.

Beginning and experienced students are welcome in all classes. The session fee for the 10 weeks is $140. Daily drop-in is $15 per class, but space is limited.

For more information, or to register, contact instructor Rebecca Pope, certified master of medical qigong, at qigongforhealth@gmail.com or 530-792-7127.