Why We Skip Our Practice

Why we avoid our Qigong practice when we need it the most…

Even if we know that a Qigong practice of just 5-10 minutes could help us wash away stress and create a sense of clarity to address the issue at hand, our minds often offer up excuses like:

1. "I’m too tired."
2. "I don’t have time."
3. "It won’t help right now."

These thoughts are ironic because it’s precisely when we’re stressed that we need to practice the most. Yet, these mental excuses keep us locked in our stress, preventing us from taking action.

A New Perspective on Qigong and Stress

I found by shifting my relationship to practicing Qigong helped me the most. I used to beat myself up when I skipped practice, or had been carrying stress for a long time without practicing. I was stressed out at myself for being stress out! I’ve found that to be the wrong approach. It’s better to be compassionate and realistic with ourselves about our practice.

I’ve experienced this firsthand during times of extreme setbacks and difficulties. Initially, I avoided my practice, thinking I didn’t have the energy or time. But I realized that if I was going to get through those tough moments from a place of inner power I had to clear the stress that was building up and keeping me tense and exhausted. After just 30 minutes of Qigong, I felt calm, cool, and relaxed. I had brought my stress from an 8/10 to a 3/10.

My Qigong master says “Qigong is great. The only bad thing about it is that if you don’t practice it doesn’t work.” But, the good thing about Qigong practice is that you can always return to it. Whenever you do it will likely feel really good.

Stress may tell you that you don’t have time, but even just 5 minutes of Qigong can make a huge difference. Think about the last time you spent hours doom-scrolling or ruminating when stressed. That time could have been used for practicing.

Yes, Qigong will help right now if you choose to practice, even just a little. Likely, it will help more than you think!

Practical Tips to Stay Consistent

Here are some practical tips to maintain a consistent practice, even during life’s ups and downs:

1. Commit to a 5-minute practice daily, regardless of your stress level.
2. Schedule Qi breaks into your day, just like you would for meetings or other tasks.
3. Use habit triggers: Pair Qigong with routines you already have, like brushing your teeth or making coffee.

And remember, if you ever feel overwhelmed, Qigong is always there, waiting for you when you’re ready to return to it. Choose a routine you enjoy and make it your go-to for when stress hits.

Stress Is Your Call to Action

Stress isn’t a reason to skip—it’s a call to action to practice. Your practice is your anchor in the storm of life.

Next time you feel stressed, pause and ask yourself: "What is one thing I can do to feel better right now?"

Take Action Today

I just posted a new free 5-minute Stress Break routine on Effortless Qigong Elevate that you can try right now for free.

Have you ever felt stress trick you out of practicing? Hit reply to this email and let me know—I’d love to hear your experience.

Remember, even on the toughest days, a few moments of practice can help you find your calm and regain control.

Keep it effortless,

Jared