Diane Ramftl
Diane Ramftl
Qigong/Tai Chi Instructor
Following a serious accident a number of years ago I found myself unable to regain my balance. I decided to try tai chi and within a matter of weeks the improvement was dramatic. I was hooked! I knew I needed to share these beautiful self -healing practices with others and got certified as a Medical Qigong Practice Leader from the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi (I.I.Q.T.C.). I have since had the privilege of continuing my studies with Qigong and Tai Chi masters Dr. Roger Jahnke, Robert Peng, Mingtong Gu, Michael Winn, Ken Cohen, Dr. Paul Lam, Lee Holden and Michael Gelb. I currently teach classes in Atlantic County, NJ. I am also President of the Healer Within Foundation, a nationwide 501(c)(3) whose mission is to advance the mind, body, spirit practices of Tai Chi and Qigong in communities around the country and the world.
Certifications
Medical Qigong Practice Leader (IIQTC)
Tai Chi For Arthritis and Falls Prevention Instructor (TCHI)
Seated Tai Chi for Arthritis Instructor (TCHI)
Tai Chi Instructor (AAAI/ISMA)
5 Elements Qigong Instructor (TCHI)
Optimize Your Breath (O.Y.B.) Associate Trainer
What Is Qigong and Tai Chi
The ancient arts of Qigong and Tai Chi have been practiced in China and around the world for centuries. Tai Chi is a type of Qigong which has it's origins in the martial arts. Qigong translates as "energy work". Focusing on cultivating and harmonizing Qi (energy) it improves health and healing in all body systems. These elegant and easy to learn practices help to balance mind, body and spirit through deep breathing, meditation, gentle movements and self-massage. They embrace the power of nature and the healer within us all. There are many different styles of Tai Chi including Yang and Sun which are the styles that I teach.
Western medical professionals are slowly beginning to recognize the value of Qigong and Tai Chi in staying healthy as well as complimentary practices that can be employed along with traditional medical treatments and methods. Harvard Medical School has studied Tai Chi extensively and refers to it as "Medication In Motion".
As with other healing energy modalities, breathing is an essential part of Tai Chi and Qigong. Breathing mindfully is an especially useful, if not essential skill in our fast-paced, stressed out world. Harnessing the power of the breath helps all body systems to function more effectively and reduces stress. We take 25,000-30,000 breaths per day. Learning to make each breath count can have a profound impact on our bodies and minds
Another important aspect of Qigong and Tai Chi is that the practices are literally for everyone, no matter your age or level of fitness. Chair Tai Chi/Qigong offers a way for those with physical limitations to take advantage of these self -healing practices. Even those who are bedridden can benefit from Tai Chi and Qigong.
Business owners have also begun to recognize the value of Tai Chi and Qigong for their employees. By reducing stress and helping employees take better care of themselves, productivity may increase. Sick days often decrease which can result in lower health care costs.