Tai chi and qigong: Your secret winter warmers

by | May 6, 2025 | Information | 0 comments

Silhouette of a person doing tai chi in front of a huge, close-up photo of the sun

Dreaming of flying towards the sun this winter?

Feeling all shivery in the mornings? What about when curled up under two duvets at night, dreaming of flying north or to the Pacific Islands to follow the sun?

Before you book that one-way ticket, here’s a cosy secret: you can turn up your inner heat right here at home — no passport required.

As the days grow shorter and the chill sets in, many of us start hunting for ways to stay warm without simply cranking up the heater or huddling under several blankets all winter.

Tai chi and qigong might not be the first things that come to mind when you think of keeping warm — but they should be.

So, can tai chi really help quell the quivery shivers of winter?

Yes, absolutely.

Tai chi and qigong are gentle forms of exercise, which means they’ll warm your body just as any physical movement does. But they go far beyond that.

The magic lies in the how. Slow, flowing movements combined with deep, mindful breathing do more than just get your blood moving — they improve your circulation and help your body absorb oxygen more efficiently.

Unlike high-intensity workouts that burn through your oxygen and leave you gasping, tai chi and qigong cultivate a quiet, lasting energy that lingers long after your practice ends.

That’s why so many practitioners describe a subtle, comforting warmth spreading through their bodies — not just during the session, but for hours afterward.

In the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine, this warmth has an even deeper explanation. Tai chi and qigong help to cultivate your qi — your life force, your mauri — which is believed to support your body’s natural defenses and resilience. A strong flow of qi is said to help you withstand not just winter’s chill, but also many seasonal bugs and fatigue.

And it’s not just ancient wisdom saying this. Modern research backs it up, too. Studies show tai chi and qigong can positively influence immune system functioning and reduce inflammation — helping you feel stronger and more energised during the colder months.

Explore the science here: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/tai-chi-and-qigong-can-boost-immunity/

So next time you reach for another pair of socks or wrap yourself in a blanket, consider this: tai chi and qigong could be your warmest allies this winter.

I welcome new beginners at my tai chi classes in Clendon, Manurewa, on Wednesday evenings, 6.30 – 7.15pm. Your first class is free. Find out more: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/classes/

The photo above of me practising tai chi in the glow of a huge, close-up photo of the sun was taken at the ‘Astronomy Photographer of the Year’ exhibition, Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery, in Hamilton. https://tewharetaonga.nz/

Keep well this winter

by | Apr 15, 2018 | Information | 0 comments

Thanks for your interest in this workshop.  Registrations are now closed.

Want to feel great this winter? Join in on a fun and relaxing tai chi workshop on Sunday 10 June to increase your winter wellness and boost your immunity.

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that combines mindfulness with a series of linked postures and steps, These steps are performed in a slow, focussed manner and accompanied by deep breathing.

At this one-day workshop you will learn specially designed tai chi movements that are easy to learn and will help you to:

  • ward off winter’s bugs and improve your overall health.
  • keep warm by improving your blood circulation.
  • calm and clear your mind, which will help you to re-boot your immune system.
  • get a good night’s sleep to further boost your immunity.
  • ramp up your energy and strength – anytime, anywhere.
  • relieve stress to give yourself a fighting chance for continuing good health.

When: Sunday 10 June, 9.45am to 4pm.

Where: Te Ngakau Waiora – Mercy Spirituality Centre, 104 The Drive, Epsom, Auckland 1023. View map

Price: $95 per person (including GST). A refund is available up to 30 days before the event. Plenty of free parking on site.

Instructor: Jocelyn Watkin, who is a  premier instructor with the Tai Chi for Health Institute.

Places are limited to a maximum of 10 people.

Almost anyone can learn tai chi, which can be done while standing, seated or even lying down. It is a low impact exercise and is suitable for adults of any age, high school students and all fitness levels. You do not need special shoes, expensive clothing or any fancy equipment. And, you won’t get all sweaty or puffed out.

What to wear: Loose, comfortable clothing and flat shoes like sneakers or trainers.

Bring: a bottle of water and your lunch. If you’d like to try tai chi while lying down please bring your own yoga mat or similar.

Tea (including green tea) and coffee provided.

 

This tai chi workshop is for you if you:.

  • Want to improve your overall health and fitness.
  • Want to boost your immunity this winter.
  • Are worried whether the flu shot will be enough for all strains of that virus heading our way this year.
  • Want to find a better way to manage stress.
  • Have always wanted to try tai chi.

All welcome.

Tai chi aims to achieve harmony with nature and the balance of mental serenity and physical strength. It is the natural and peaceful way to help you to prepare for winter and sustain you over the winter months.

 

 

 

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