Stillness. The word alone invites us to soften, to slow down, to take a deep breath.

In Still Qi Gong, we practice exercises in which we gently place our attention on specific points or areas of the body. Simply by being present there, Qi is allowed to return, to settle, and to fill these spaces once more. This is how healing can begin.

The same is true of stillness itself. When we allow silence and inner quiet, a space opens in which we can simply be—a space of peace, where we come home to ourselves. Stillness is a source of deep relaxation and restoration, a way of reconnecting with who we truly are.

When we encounter stillness for the first time, it may feel unfamiliar. We are so accustomed to constant noise, stimulation, doing, and thinking. Yet with gentle practice, stillness reveals itself as a nourishing place—one that supports rest, balance, and ease.

By involving the body, we can make stillness more accessible. Practices such as Qi Gong help the body soften and settle. Calming the body is essential for calming the mind and emotions; it creates the inner conditions in which stillness can naturally arise. This process opens the door to inner peace and reminds us of our innate capacity for self-care.

My own practice of stillness—whatever form it takes—has become as essential to me as eating and drinking. It is a daily act of self-care, whether through Qi Gong and meditation or a quiet walk in the forest. Connecting with nature, wherever and however we do so, is another powerful way to ground ourselves and find stillness.

Practicing stillness is not about perfection. It is about experiencing it—and, just as importantly, enjoying it. The more familiar we become with it, the more we can draw upon it, even in the midst of noisy or intense moments. Sometimes just five minutes of stillness can nourish us, bring clarity, and help us return to ourselves.

Stillness is like a muscle we can train. Supporting others in cultivating this “muscle,” while offering them the experience of a full hour of stillness, is something that fills me with great joy.