We just passed the summer solstice yesterday. From this longest day of the year, we begin to see the days get shorter as the seasons do their annual march (don’t worry, there’s still plenty of summer left). This time of year presents an interesting discussion in relation to Qi, our moods, circadian rhythms, and especially to our Qigong practice.

From an energetic perspective, one focused on the waxing and waning of Qi and of the Five Elements through their annual cycle, I would actually argue that spring and summer are the best times to take up a habit or focus on building a goal.

Winter is giving way to spring, day upon day, giving all of us a measure of hope, warmth, and familiar allergens. Fortunately, the wisdom of Chinese medicine has passed down acupressure and Qigong tools to us as we fight off rising pollen counts and everything else that makes us sniffle and sneeze as the earth wakes up.

Now more than ever, it lies to the power of our minds to help us find peace and joy. Our Qigong training holds the key to get there.