Breathing Into Balance: My Journey with “Qigong for the Lungs”

As autumn settles in and the air turns crisp, I’ll be taking a deep breath. Quite literally, I’ve enrolled in two special classes. These classes mark a new step on my Qigong path.

On October 25, I’ll attend a focused workshop on teaching “Qigong for the Lungs” given by Sifu Suman Barkhas. This workshop will explore how centuries-old Chinese breathing and movement practices can help strengthen the body’s vital systems. Then, on November 1, I begin the first class in my Qigong teacher certification program, also by Barcus. This is a milestone I’ve been looking forward to for quite some time.

I’ve practiced Tai Chi and Qigong for years. These classes feel like turning a corner from curiosity to commitment. I am learning not just how to move and breathe, but why these movements matter.

The History Behind “Qigong for the Lungs”

The roots of Qigong reach deep into Chinese history. Long before the word Qigong was used, people practiced Dao Yin. Dao Yin means “guiding and stretching.” They also practiced Tu Na, which means “expelling and drawing in.” These early forms of physical and breathing exercises date back more than 2,000 years.

Archaeological discoveries like the Mawangdui silk texts (from a 2nd-century BCE tomb in Hunan Province) provide insights. They show illustrations of people performing gentle stretches. They appear to be doing bends and breathing postures. These actions look strikingly similar to modern Qigong sequences. Many of these early exercises had a purpose. People designed them to keep the body’s energy — or Qi — circulating smoothly through the organs.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each organ system has its own role in maintaining the body’s balance. The Lungs are considered the “tender organ.” They are responsible for distributing Qi throughout the body. They’re associated with the Metal element and the autumn season, both linked with letting go and clarity.

When we breathe deeply and slowly, we not only take in oxygen, we also balance our internal energy. This helps release tension and cultivate calm. Qigong forms for the lungs often include expansive arm movements. They also incorporate chest-opening postures and slow rhythmic breathing. These practices help clear stagnant energy and strengthen the respiratory system.

Why It Feels Especially Meaningful Now

Modern life often keeps us sitting, scrolling, and breathing shallowly. These habits make it harder for our lungs to do their best work. A practice that reconnects breath and movement feels like an antidote to the pace of everyday life.

Qigong for the Lungs is said to:

•Open the chest and strengthen breathing muscles
•Support the immune system (called the Wei Qi in TCM)
•Release emotional heaviness — since grief and sadness are thought to affect the lungs
•Encourage mindfulness through rhythm and breath awareness

For me, the timing feels perfect. Autumn is traditionally the season for lung practice. Beginning this journey as the changing leaves feel like they are aligning with something ancient and natural.

Looking Ahead to November 1

Starting the Qigong teacher certification course will deepen my understanding of both the physical and energetic aspects of practice. I’ll be learning the principles of movement that focus on breathing and teaching techniques. Eventually, I will prepare to share Qigong in ways that fit SCA life, community gatherings, and daily well-being. I’ve already started a FaceBook group for us.

For now, though, I’m happy to remain the student. I will step into class with curiosity. I will follow my breath and let the learning unfold one movement at a time.

Closing Thought

There’s an old Chinese saying:

“When the breath is calm, the heart is clear.”


I’m aiming for something special this autumn. I want a calm breath and a clear heart. I also seek the joy of learning something that connects body, mind, and spirit.