Chinese moving meditation Qigong group meets at the Rheinaue
Bonn · It’s free, it’s healthy, held under open skies and accessible for everyone. For several years now, a Qigong group has been meeting regularly, practicing the popular form of Chinese exercise and mediation.
“Other people go jogging, I do Qigong,” said Martin Dopychai. He is around one of 30 people who meet regularly on Monday evenings under the shade of a tree in the Japanese Garden at the Rheinaue. Participants take part in exercises with names like “Separating the Clouds and carry the moon”, some with more finesse than others. Leader Christa Zumfelde-Hüneburg says the movements stem from nature. Trained as an anesthesiologist, a specialist in pain therapy, homeopathic medicine and acupuncture, the doctor began the summer Qigong group a few years ago.
Qigong Yangsheng stems from traditional Chinese medicine and encompasses a combination of exercises, which are not only good for keeping the mind and body healthy, but can also be used to treat ailments. It’s about aligning body, movement, breathing and concentration. “Regulate the breath and calm the spirit,” says Zumfelde-Hüneburg. That’s how the open air Qigong sessions begin each time - with a seemingly simple command which may not be so easy to execute. With Qigong, one can regulate and strengthen both mind and body, according to the leader of the exercises.
The weekly open air sessions are open to everyone, whether advanced or beginner, and they don’t cost a penny. A 51-year-old graphic designer from Beuel who is trying it out for the first time, produces movements which are fluid and professional looking. She has done yoga and shadow-boxing and was curious about this form of exercise, deciding to come and give it a try.
For 55-year old Dopychai, who works near the Post Tower, there’s more in play than just gaining a sense of balance after work, he’s training to be a teacher of Qigong. Perhaps this will expand the Chinese movement team in the Rheinaue.
The idea came about four years ago and the Rheinaue was chosen as the meeting grounds because so many different people pass by and it can be easily reached. Many passersby stop and ask about what the group is doing. The doctor sees this as a good place to attract more people to the Bonn Qigong community. (Orig. text: Leif Kubik)
