Workshop Structure


1. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Brief overview of Qi Abdominal Release

• Importance of abdominal health for overall well-being

• Overview of what participants will learn and experience in the workshop



2. Theory Lecture (15 minutes)

• The Concept of Qi (Energy) and its Flow

Introduce the concept of Qi as the life force or energy flowing through the body, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Explain how Qi nourishes organs, tissues, and cells, and how blockages can impact physical and emotional health.

• The Role of the Abdomen in Qi Circulation

Explain why the abdomen is considered a critical energy center, storing emotional and physical tension. Discuss how the abdominal area connects to major organs (liver, spleen, stomach, intestines) and the importance of their harmonious function.

• Common Blockages in Abdominal Qi Flow

Address how factors like stress, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and suppressed emotions contribute to stagnation in the abdomen. Link this to common symptoms such as digestive issues, emotional imbalance, fatigue, and tension.

• Benefits of Qi Abdominal Release

Outline how releasing abdominal tension promotes Qi flow, aids in detoxification, improves digestion, and provides an emotional release. Emphasize how this practice can improve energy levels and enhance a sense of inner peace and relaxation.



3. Technique Demonstration and Practice (30 minutes)

• Technique 1: Gentle Pressure Release

Demonstrate a technique that uses gentle pressure on key points around the abdomen to release tension. Encourage participants to explore their own tension areas and apply light to moderate pressure.

• Technique 2: Circular Qi Movement

Teach a circular, massaging movement to stimulate Qi flow throughout the abdomen. Explain how this helps to ‘unblock’ energy and encourage circulation to vital organs. Guide participants to match the movement with their breathing for deeper relaxation.



5. Closing 


Grounding Practice (4 minutes)


End with a short grounding or gratitude practice:


• Invite participants to place their hands on their abdomen, take a few deep breaths, and offer gratitude to themselves for taking this time.

• You can say, “Thank yourself for this moment of self-care, and remember that you carry this ability to support your body and mind every day.”



Q&A (10 minutes)

• Brief recap of key points

• Tips for incorporating Qi abdominal release into daily self-care routines

• Open the floor for questions and reflections


Invitation to Continue Their Journey (3 minutes)


Introduce the online course as a next step for those who feel inspired to go deeper:


“For those of you who felt connected to today’s practice and want to explore more, I’m thrilled to invite you to join my Qi Abdominal Release Online Course. This course goes beyond what we covered today, diving into additional techniques, deeper energy work, and more personalized approaches to self-care.”


Explain some key features, like:


• A structured progression that builds on today’s foundations

• New techniques to further release blockages and enhance Qi flow

• Lifetime access to resources and support, so they can return to the material anytime they need


Special Offer or Incentive (Optional, 1 minute)


Consider offering a small incentive for signing up soon after the workshop, like a discount or bonus content:


“As a thank-you for joining today, I’d love to offer you a special discount for the online course, valid for the next 48 hours.”


Introduction (5 minutes)


Welcome, everyone! I’m so glad you’re here to join this Qi Abdominal Release self-care workshop. Today, we’re going to explore a powerful yet simple practice that focuses on our abdominal health—an area that’s often overlooked but plays a vital role in our overall well-being.


To start, I’d like to give you a brief overview of what Qi Abdominal Release is and why it’s essential for our health. This technique draws from Traditional Chinese Medicine, which sees the abdomen as a central hub of energy, storing both physical and emotional tension. By learning how to release this tension, we can support better energy flow throughout our bodies, helping us to feel lighter, more relaxed, and more balanced.


In the next hour, we’ll dive into the concept of Qi, or life force, and why our abdomen is a significant focus in maintaining energy flow and vitality. I’ll guide you through two simple techniques you can use at home, combining gentle pressure and circular movements to promote relaxation and release.


This workshop is all about creating a nurturing space for self-care, and I encourage you to be open, curious, and gentle with yourself. Let’s begin by grounding ourselves in the present moment and tuning in to our own needs, honoring this time dedicated just for you.

Theory Lecture (15 minutes)


1. The Concept of Qi (Energy) and Its Flow


Qi, pronounced “chee,” is a fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It represents the vital life force or energy that flows through every living being. In TCM, Qi is believed to move through specific pathways called meridians, which connect all organs and body systems. This flow is what sustains life, promotes health, and maintains balance.


When Qi flows freely, we experience health, vitality, and emotional stability. However, when Qi becomes blocked or stagnant, it can lead to discomfort, both physically and emotionally. This concept of Qi as an energy flow is what guides many Eastern practices, including acupuncture, tai chi, and, of course, abdominal release techniques like we’re practicing today.


2. The Role of the Abdomen in Qi Circulation


In TCM, the abdomen is often referred to as the “second brain.” It’s a powerful center where much of our energy is stored and processed. This area, encompassing the digestive organs (stomach, spleen, intestines, liver, and more), plays a significant role in both physical health and emotional well-being.


The abdomen is where we “digest” not only food but also emotions. Stress, worry, and anxiety can accumulate in this area, leading to what’s known as “stagnant Qi.” Physically, this can manifest as digestive issues, tension, bloating, or general discomfort. Emotionally, this can show up as feelings of overwhelm, irritability, or low energy.


By focusing on the abdomen, we can address both our physical and emotional well-being, helping to clear blocks and support our body’s natural flow of Qi.


3. Common Blockages in Abdominal Qi Flow


Let’s explore some reasons why Qi might become blocked in the abdomen:


• Stress and Anxiety

When we’re stressed, we often tense up the muscles in our abdomen, sometimes without even realizing it. Over time, this constant tension can create blockages in the flow of Qi.

• Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle

Sitting for long periods, especially with poor posture, can compress the abdomen and reduce circulation. This stagnation in blood and energy flow can prevent Qi from circulating freely.

• Diet and Digestion

A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to sluggish digestion and inflammation, both of which create obstacles in the abdomen. Poor digestion is closely tied to blocked Qi.

• Suppressed Emotions

Often, we store emotions like anger, worry, and sadness in our abdomen, leading to what we call “emotional blockages.” This is why abdominal release work can feel like an emotional as well as a physical release.


“Have you noticed any of these blockages in your own life—stress, posture, diet, or emotions? If you’re comfortable, feel free to share a brief thought.


4. Benefits of Qi Abdominal Release


The goal of Qi Abdominal Release is to alleviate these blockages, allowing Qi to flow freely throughout the abdomen and to the rest of the body. Here are some benefits you might experience:


• Enhanced Digestion

By promoting better circulation in the abdomen, Qi abdominal release can help with digestion and relieve discomfort such as bloating or cramps.

• Increased Energy Levels

When energy isn’t stuck or stagnant, it flows to areas that need it most, leading to a natural boost in vitality and a feeling of being more “alive” or energized.

• Emotional Relief

Since we store emotions in our abdomen, releasing this area often allows suppressed emotions to surface and dissipate, leading to a sense of emotional clarity and calm.

• Detoxification

By stimulating the abdomen, you’re also helping organs like the liver and intestines to process and eliminate waste more effectively, which supports the body’s detoxification process.


Qi Abdominal Release is a powerful self-care practice because it addresses both our emotional and physical layers. When we release tension in the abdomen, we are not only working with our muscles but also helping clear emotional and energetic blocks that may be holding us back from feeling our best.


This lecture provides participants with a foundational understanding of Qi and its significance, setting them up for a deeper experience when they move into the hands-on techniques. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or additions!


“Based on what we’ve discussed, is there a benefit you’re particularly interested in—like enhanced digestion, emotional release, or increased energy?”



Massage Demo


Warm up

 rubbing hands

khou fa the abdomen



Connecting with the abdomen (2 minutes)


“Now, let’s take a moment to connect with our abdomen. Please place one hand gently over your abdomen and close your eyes. Take a deep breath in, feeling your hand rise as your abdomen expands, and then slowly exhale, feeling it fall.


I invite you to imagine your abdomen as a ‘second brain,’ a place where you not only digest food but also process emotions and experiences. This is a center of energy, of feeling, and often, of tension.


Now, check in with this area. How does it feel right now? Can you sense any areas of tension, any heaviness, or perhaps a sensation of discomfort? Try to be open to whatever you’re feeling without judgment.



Detoxifying circles



CV 12: Your Anchor of Balance

  • CV 12 (Zhongwan):  this point is a powerful ally in harmonizing the stomach Qi, which, in TCM, is not only related to the physical digestion of food but also to the "digestion" of thoughts and emotions. Stimulating CV 12 encourages the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, promoting a sense of balance and internal harmony. It helps with the digestion of complex emotions, helping to alleviate emotional turmoil and enabling individuals to process feelings more effectively.

  • It brings stability to your physical and emotional digestion, helping you to digest life's experiences with ease. This point encourages a deep connection with your center, where you can find balance and nourishment from within. 


ST25

Stomach 25, named Tian Shu or Heaven’s Pivot, is said to be the “single most important point for the treatment of the widest variety of intestinal disorders.” It is located level with the navel, half way from the border of the rectus abdominis muscle. It is used more for diarrhea than constipation, as it helps to resolve dampness in the body. We use this point for bloating, nausea & vomiting, undigested food in the stool, poor appetite, abdominal pain, and even abdominal masses such as intestinal abscess or uterine masses.


Indications for Using ST 25

  • Digestive Disorders: ST 25 is effective in alleviating symptoms of digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. It helps regulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive function.

  • Menstrual Disorders: This point is beneficial for treating menstrual irregularities, including irregular periods, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and premenstrual abdominal distension. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve menstrual cramps.

  • Pain Relief: ST 25 provides relief from both acute and chronic abdominal pain. It is particularly useful for alleviating pain associated with gastrointestinal and menstrual disorders.

  • Edema and Urinary Problems: ST 25 helps regulate fluid metabolism, making it effective for conditions like edema (swelling due to fluid retention) and urinary retention. It promotes normal urination and reduces fluid retention.

  • Respiratory Issues: This point can help alleviate symptoms of respiratory disorders such as cough and asthma by regulating the body's qi and enhancing respiratory function.

  • Skin Disorders: ST 25 can be used to treat certain skin conditions that manifest with symptoms like itching, rashes, or eruptions, particularly those related to heat and dampness in the body.




Guided Reflection (5 minutes)


Encourage participants to take a moment to reflect on how they’re feeling after the session. Ask:


• “What changes do you notice in your body or mind after the techniques we practiced?”

• “Was there anything that surprised you during today’s session?”


Allow a few participants to share if they feel comfortable. Acknowledging these shifts helps them recognize the immediate benefits of Qi Abdominal Release, reinforcing their interest.


2. Closing Affirmation and Encouragement (2 minutes)


Offer a few closing words that affirm their experience and encourage them to keep exploring. For example:


“Today, you’ve started to unlock an ancient wisdom that’s as much about self-care as it is about inner discovery. This is just the beginning of what Qi Abdominal Release can offer. With consistent practice, this work can open new layers of relaxation, emotional balance, and vitality.”




Closing


Q&A


Guided Grounding Practice (4 minutes)


“Let’s take a moment to end our practice together with a grounding exercise. Find a comfortable seated position, letting your spine be tall but relaxed. Gently place both hands over your abdomen, feeling the warmth and weight of your palms.


Close your eyes, and take a deep breath in through your nose. Feel the breath expand under your hands, allowing your abdomen to soften and fill with air. And as you exhale slowly, release any remaining tension, letting your body settle.


Now, take another deep, gentle breath. Feel this breath not only expand your abdomen but also spread warmth throughout your whole body. Imagine each inhale bringing in calm, fresh energy, and each exhale letting go of anything you don’t need.


Continue to breathe this way, letting each breath connect you a little deeper to yourself. Notice any sensations under your hands, any feelings of warmth, softness, or even lightness in your abdomen. This is your center, the place where your energy flows and renews.


Take a moment now to silently thank yourself for coming here today—for giving yourself this time and space, for connecting with your body and your energy. You’ve planted the seeds of something powerful, and this journey of self-care is something you can return to anytime you wish.


Let’s take one more deep breath together. Inhale, filling your abdomen fully. And exhale, releasing and grounding yourself in the present moment.


When you’re ready, slowly open your eyes, keeping this sense of calm and connection with you as we close. Thank you all for being here and for sharing this practice with me today.”