Fitness: Tai Chi/Qigong Fundamentals • Register • View Cart •

Theresa Rogers is a Zen Wellness certified Qigong instructor and currently trains with Alex Dong's International Taijiquan Association of Tai Chi. Theresa is an advanced student of Senior Instructor Janet Briggs of East Wind Tai Chi in the practice of Yang Style Long form, Dong family Simplified, Advanced, Fast, and Sword forms and Kai-He/Hao form.

In 1987, Instructor Theresa received a BA from College of Atlantic in Human Ecology, the study of the connections between humans and their natural and physical environments. From 2001-2010, she was a regional champion and a national contender with USA Powerlifting, a drug free strength sport federation.

With life-long interests in human ecology and physical fitness, Theresa says: "In 2014, I was fortunate to begin studying Qigong and Tai Chi with Master James Rath of the Taoist Arts Center in Nashua. The profound physical and mental benefits I experienced fostered centeredness in all areas of my life." After achieving instructor certifications, Theresa taught the restorative Qigong curriculum at the Toaist Arts Center until its closing.

In 2018 Theresa founded 7 Stars Qigong. Excited to share her knowledge and experience, Theresa looks forward to learning and teaching Qigong and Tai Chi for many, many years.

What is Qigong?
Qigong (pronounced chee gong) is similar to tai chi and is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine. Qi means energy, as well as breath. Gong means work or skill. You might see spelling variations such as Chi Kung, Chi gong, qi gong. They all translate as energy/breath work.

As a form of gentle exercise, qigong is composed of movements that are typically repeated, strengthening and stretching the body, increasing fluid movement (blood, synovial, and lymph), enhancing balance, and improving awareness of how the body moves through space.

What are the differences and similarities between Tai Chi and Qigong?
Tai Chi is a martial art. Qigong is the art of energy cultivation. Qigong is often a foundational practice of Tai Chi. Both have similar health benefits.

Who can learn and participate in Qigong classes?
Everyone! All qigong movements can be modified. We’ll start slow and work within a comfortable range for our own bodies.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, loose fitting clothes that allow unrestricted movement are best.

Do I need special shoes?
Flexible, flat type shoes generally work well. If you have foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, you might need the type of shoes most suitable for your feet.

What should I bring?
No special equipment is required. Feel free to bring water. A sense of humor is optional but helps!

Will I be sitting on the floor? Do I need a yoga mat?
No. Qigong exercises are typically standing practices.

When will I see benefits from Qigong?
Most new students feel more relaxed at the end of their first class. To experience long-term benefits, regular consistent practice is recommended. Classes include tips and techniques to help cultivate personalized daily practice routines. Practicing qigong even as little as 5 to10 minutes a day will bring positive changes.

Is Qigong a spiritual practice?
?A specific spiritual tradition is not promoted. With regular practice, many people feel increased connections to the physical world and to any higher power of their understanding.