Wellness Workshops

Qigong

Join Mike Powers for an introduction to qigong (chi kung), an ancient Chinese system of personal health care that includes breathing exercises, guided meditations, postures and moving exercises and meditations. Qigong helps to reduce stress, improve physical health, and promote mental peace. Unlike most Western exercise methods that preach, “No pain, no gain,” qigong is effective without being strenuous. It is becoming extremely popular throughout the Western world, especially within health care communities. 

The Power of Touch: Safe Massage for People Touched by Cancer

Join Sat-Siri Sumler, L.M.T., N.C.T.M.B., R.Y.T., as she teaches participants some simple self-massage and relaxation techniques to feel better naturally. All persons touched by cancer may enhance their quality of life through massage/touch therapies and complement medical care by focusing on the mind, body and spirit. Learn how and when to safely use massage and the benefits of massage for people with cancer.

The Sound of Our Voices

For thousands of years, the human voice has been used to soothe, calm and affect the mind and body. Join Michael Richardson, M.T.-B.C., for this session, which will explore how the voice is used in speaking, humming and singing.  Attendees can expect demonstrations, comparisons and discussion of different cultural, historical and scientifically researched techniques, such as toning and Nada yoga.

Aromatic Mind Medicine

Cancer therapies often tax the entire wellness continuum. Treatment can create fatigue, pain, changes to the gastrointestinal tract, forgetfulness and restless nights. A few standard essential oils will be presented along with some recipes for general relaxation, mental stimulation and restful sleep. The lecture is interactive and will provide participants an opportunity to get acquainted with several aromas. 

An Introduction to Tai Chi

Tai chi, an ancient form of martial arts, is often referred to as “meditation in motion.” Led by Mike Powers, this class introduces the discipline, a series of slow, gentle movements intended to unite body and mind, build inner strength and develop a strong, healthy flow of life energy throughout the body. Tai chi uses very little energy when performed correctly, but it does require a great deal of mental concentration and discipline. Although tai chi seems simple, it takes time to learn the proper movements and their coordination. In addition to physical and mental requirements the practitioner's breathing must also be fully synchronized with the precise movements of the body. Additionally, advanced students learn to coordinate their breathing and movements with the flow of energy within their body. Many benefits from practicing this ancient discipline include stress reduction, an immune system boost, normalized blood pressure and a profound sense of peace and accomplishment.

Journaling: The Healing Power of Story

Join Sandi Stromberg, M.A., and discover the healing power of accessing stories from your life and writing about them in a non-critical atmosphere.