🌞 Qigong in the Sunshine – A Truly Calming Experience at St. Joseph’s 🌿
Yesterday, our school was treated to a very special and peaceful experience – Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) 🧘♂️, led by the wonderful Mark Pogson. If you’ve never heard of it before, Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, breathing, and meditation to help improve both physical and mental well-being 🌬️💖. It’s often described as moving meditation – and that’s exactly how it felt today!
Each class had the chance to spend half an hour learning and practising Qigong ⏱️, and thanks to the beautiful weather 🌤️, we were able to do it outdoors. The sun was shining ☀️, but we made sure to stay in dappled shade so that everyone could stay cool and comfortable while we moved slowly, breathed deeply, and learned to connect our bodies and minds 🤲🧠.
The atmosphere was absolutely lovely – calm, peaceful, and full of gentle energy 🌈. Pupils of all ages really embraced the moment, stretching, flowing, and relaxing together in the fresh air 🌿👣. It was such a welcome opportunity to pause, unwind, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being still and mindful ✨🕊️.
A huge thank you to Mark Pogson for guiding us through this beautiful experience 🙏 – we hope to welcome you back again in the future! 💫
UNCRC Articles covered:
- Article 24 – Every child has the right to the best possible health.
- Article 31 – Every child has the right to relax, play and take part in a wide range of cultural and artistic activities.
SDG Goals linked:
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Goal 4: Quality Education
SHANARRI Indicators:
- Healthy – Promoting physical and emotional well-being through relaxation and movement.
- Active – Engaging in mindful movement outdoors.
- Safe – A calm, structured experience that supported emotional safety.
- Included – Every pupil had the opportunity to take part.
Meta-Skills:
- Focusing – Pupils maintained calm attention and presence during the session.
- Adapting – Adjusting to a new experience and environment outdoors.
- Feeling – Becoming more attuned to emotions, body awareness, and surroundings.
Strands of Faith:
- Hours of God – Taking time for stillness and reflection.
- Reign of God – Promoting peace, respect, and care for self and others.
