The amazing benefits of Fasting in Qigong

In this blogpost we will talk about the benefits of fasting in Qigong. Here we will discuss the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of fasting. We will also draw attention to Master Jianshe Liu, a profound Teacher of Zhineng Qigong and his involvement in fostering holistic health using fasting retreats.

We know that Zhineng Qigong focuses on the cultivation of Qi (vital energy) to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The main emphasis is on the integration of mind, body, and spirit to achieve harmony and balance. While fasting is not a core practice in Zhineng Qigong, some practitioners choose to incorporate fasting as part of their individual practice, or as a complementary technique to enhance their Qigong experience.

“Qigong fasting … Above all, it is about emotional and mental balance, a new sense for inner peace and relaxation, a personal “reset”.”
Britta Stalling, Qigong Fasting – a journey to ignite your true self

What is Fasting?

Fasting is the abstinence from food or drink or both for health, ritualistic, religious, or ethical purposes. Many systems of belief incorporate fasting into their practices. It is another example of ancient wisdom we continue employ. In fact, more and more scientistic studies are being done on the efficacy of fasting with regards to obtaining holistic health. Some practitioners might choose to fast as a means of purification, for healing, or as a method to deepen their spiritual connection during specific periods of intense practice or meditation retreats.

About Master Jianshe Liu

Master Jianshe was born during a famine period which took place in China. This means that there was an extreme scarcity of food which left a great population without access to adequate amounts food. More often than not, the result of famine is acute malnutrition, the ending of life by starvation, and diseases. In this time he suffered both mentally and physically. He experienced painful stomach aches throughout each year, although we can not begin to describe the other experiences he endured. When he started practising Zhineng Qigong it seemed that things were changing, “his mind and body changed tremendously. For the first time he felt so beautiful to be a human being!”.

Now, Master Jianshe has spread Zhineng Qigong in different cities and villages in China, Europe, the Americas, Australia and Africa. Having witnessed and experienced the marvels of healing first-hand, he continues to teach today. Recently Master Jianshe lead a fasting retreat, so let’s talk about the benefits of fasting.

Learn more about Master Jianshe Liu Here

The physical benefits of Fasting:

Fasting in Qigong can offer notable physical health benefits. By abstaining from food for specific periods, practitioners aim to cleanse and detoxify their bodies, promoting improved digestion and metabolic function. Fasting has also been shown to improve chronic illnesses like chronic inflammation as well as type 2 diabetes, by enhancing insulin sensitivity. It can also have superficial effects such as weight loss and anti-aging. This combined practice can also enhance energy flow (Qi) throughout the body, leading to increased vitality and overall well-being. Here are some physical benefits of fasting:

Cardiovascular Health: By reducing risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation fasting can have positive effects on cardiovascular health.

Autophagy: Fasting triggers a process called autophagy with promotes cellular repair. This is a cellular process where damaged cells are consumed in a metabolic process.

Brain Health: Fasting can lead to improved cognitive function, learning and memory. Fasting can increase the production of a protein within the brain that supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new neurons and synapses.

Gut Health: Fasting can support gut health by positively influencing the gut microbiome. Gut Microbiota within the human digestive system helps support energy harvesting, digestion, and immune defense.

The mental benefits of fasting:

Fasting in qigong extends its benefits to mental well-being. Through the discipline of both fasting and Zhineng Qigong, practitioners create a deeper connection with their inner selves. This practice can foster a sense of inner peace and tranquility, promote emotional stability and reduce stress. Many qigong practitioners find that fasting enhances their mindfulness, contributing to improved mental health and a greater sense of balance in life.

Improved Mental Clarity and Focus: A recent study suggests that intermittent fasting may promote neuroplasticity and increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which could enhance cognitive function.

Enhanced Mood and Emotional Well-being: Some individuals experience improvements in mood and emotional well-being during fasting.

Positive Impact on Sleep Quality: A study in “Nutrition Reviews” indicates that time-restricted eating may positively influence sleep. This study highlights the connection between circadian rhythms and eating patterns.

Stress Reduction: A study published in the journal “Cell Metabolism” suggests that fasting can activate adaptive cellular stress responses, potentially increasing the body’s resilience to stress.

The spiritual benefits of fasting in Qigong:

Fasting in qigong holds profound spiritual significance. It is believed to purify the body, mind, and spirit, allowing for a deeper connection to one’s inner self and the universe. This practice can facilitate a heightened sense of awareness, promoting spiritual growth and insight. Many qigong practitioners find that fasting enhances their ability to tap into their spiritual essence, fostering a profound sense of harmony and enlightenment.

Enhanced Energy Flow: Fasting in Qigong is thought to cleanse and purify the body, removing excess toxins and Qi blockages. This creates a smoother and more harmonious flow of energy throughout the body.

Cultivation of Patience and Discipline: Practitioners learn to cultivate patience and inner strength. Fasting requires self-discipline and patience, which are seen as important virtues in Qigong and other spiritual practices.

Deepened Meditation and Mindfulness: During fasting, practitioners experience heightened states of meditation and mindfulness. .

Connection with Nature and Cycles: Some Qigong practitioners view fasting as an opportunity to align with the natural cycles of life. It helps to slow down, introspect, and harmonize with the rhythms of nature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fasting in Zhineng Qigong offers a holistic approach to health and well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. This practice, although not central to Zhineng Qigong, complements its principles of harmony and balance. Physically, fasting can enhance cardiovascular health, promote cellular repair, boost brain function, and support gut health. Mentally, it fosters mental clarity, emotional stability, improved mood, and reduced stress. Spiritually, fasting is a path to purification, heightened awareness, and a deeper connection to the universe. Through the remarkable journey of Master Jianshe Liu, who overcame physical challenges with Qigong, we see the transformative power of these practices.

Master Jianshe’s dedication to spreading Zhineng Qigong and his recent fasting retreat exemplify the profound impact these practices can have on one’s life. Whether you’re drawn to physical vitality, mental peace, or spiritual enlightenment, exploring the benefits of fasting in Zhineng Qigong can be a transformative journey towards holistic health and self-discovery. To learn more about the benefits of fasting in Zhineng Qigong, read this informative article by the Body and Mind factory. Click here.

Master Jianshe’s Retreats:

Benefits:

Feel your body more light and graceful. Full of youth and vitality.
Your mind will be quieter and clearer, connecting with high dimensions.
Your intuition will wake up and become stronger
Enter a state of gratefulness to the universe by connecting to our pure (baby) heart
Connect to more simplicity, joy and happiness in your daily life

Program: