Professor Han Bin's visit to Finland included lectures in Tampere, Turku and Helsinki as well as a weekend qigong course at the Frantsila Wellness Center in Hämeenkyrö. Janne Jokinen, who attended the course, gives his views about what it was like.

Jokinen said that the course concentrated on the eight movements that made up the qigong series known as Baduanjin. Some simple basic exercises, which focused on breathing and building awareness of the body's qi energy, were also practised. About half the time was set aside for theory lessons and discussions.

Jokinen has practised taiji and yiquan, including mental and physical development exercises, daily for the last year and a half, so he has acquired both the basic knowledge and experience even prior to joining the course. He said that studying under a competent and experienced teacher has deepened everything he has learned before.

"My knowledge both of the principles and even my awareness of my body has markedly improved during the course. These two days were really intensive, especially since we concentrated on the Baduanjin series. We were able to practise and have lots of discussions, so I am a bit wiser," Jokinen says.

Getting a grip on life

Anyone can practise qigong. (Image: Radio86)

It takes a lot of time and practice before the effects of qigong can be felt. This might be difficult to understand for modern people who are used to getting quick results and instant gratification. Jokinen says that his reasons for practising qigong has changed over time. "The more I practise qigong, the more I become aware of its complexity. At the beginning, it was just something I was interested in, something I wanted to check out and I didn't notice much effect on my body."

Jokinen says, though, that since qigong has been practised for such a long time, it has to have some positive effects. He thinks that it affects the mind and the attitude especially. "Qigong has made me calmer and it has helped me think about things more completely. And not just about those relating to the body or the mind, but about life as a whole."

His own experience prompts Jokinen to recommend qigong especially to those who are busy, tired or stressed. "When you stop for a moment to do qigong, you begin to understand that you can actually set aside the worries that are clouding your mind. Many have learned to let go of anxiety this way and it's a great starting point."

Jokinen also emphasizes that qigong is not some miracle cure for those seeking health and wellness in an instant. It takes practise and an investment of time before you see its rewards.

He also thinks that qigong could help people who want to change their lifestyle. When qigong's effects start to be visible, it's easier to put in time and make space for it in daily life. Jokinen has a very practical view of qigong. He says that people don't have to make a fuss about it, but to just let things flow during practice. There's no need to force yourself into anything, he says. But in his experience, understanding will come, slowly but surely.

The surrounding's qi is important

Where you practise qigong is important, too. (Image: Radio86)

Jokinen thinks that Professor Han Bin's course was a positive experience on many levels, not the least of which was being able to practise qigong on a beautiful spring day outdoors. "It was peaceful, and according to Professor Bin, the surrounding qi, the qi of the place is important. There should be a feeling of calmness, a quietness you don't have to look for. This Wellness Center was an excellent choice for this course and everyone felt great. They say they've learned a lot from Professor Bin. It was really nice," Jokinen says.

Professor Bin was also taken by Finland's clean and welcoming nature and promised to return soon. His visit was arranged by Jari Siipola, who studied under Professor Bin in Beijing and now practices traditional Chinese medicine in Finland. The plans for Professor Bin's next visit are probably in the works already.