Qigong: A Gentle Practice for Life with Myasthenia Gravis (MG)

June is Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Awareness Month, a rare autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that may cause muscle weakness and fatigue.

I have had multiple challenges in my own healing journey and one of these is living with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) that I was diagnosed with in 2017. Living with MG and multiple other medical conditions is a constant balancing act. That’s why I want to share a healing practice that’s made a huge difference in my life together with other lifestyle changes: Qigong.

Unlike strenuous workouts, Qigong meets your body exactly where it is. Its slow gentle movements, deep breathing and meditative focus help me reduce fatigue, manage the ups and downs of energy, calm my nervous system and stay connected to my body by learning to listen to my body.

Qigong is a Traditional Chinese practice; some studies suggest that Qigong can positively influence the immune system and inflammatory responses by promoting a balance in the immune system and reducing inflammation. 

It’s not a cure, but it’s a tool. A way to manage stress, restore energy and reclaim some control when so much feels uncertain. It offers a sense of empowerment that many of us miss when living with chronic illness.

If you’re new to Qigong, know this: It’s low impact, it can be done standing or seated. Start where you are and do what you can. It might just become an important part of your healing journey too.

Sharing Hope

If you or someone you know is navigating Myasthenia Gravis or any health challenge, I invite you to explore Qigong. Start small and do what you can. Be kind and gentle to yourself. And know that healing is not just about fixing. It’s about connecting, accepting and supporting your body in every way you can.

I am still work in progress. The healing and progress are not linear; it’s up and down all over the place. As long as I am moving forward no matter how small and tiny that step is, it’s progress. I am learning we are here to experience all sort of things good and bad, but what’s important is what can we learn and how we grow from these experiences.

Lastly, please do your best don’t judge a book by its cover, sometimes you can’t physically see that someone is living with a certain illness, I could look ‘fit’, but it doesn’t mean I am healthy and well. Be kind to people you meet because in many ways, we all are struggling, suffering and fighting our own inner battle that you may not be able to see from the outside.

If you want to learn more about Qigong, join our weekly classes or book a one-on-one session with me to see how Qigong could be beneficial for you.

Wishing you the best in your own health journey,

Churn Chi

Please note it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to ensure that Qigong practices are safe and appropriate for your specific needs.