Yoga and Qigong on Bintang Steps @ Starhill

Exercise and staying in shape does not always require rigourous movements. Seemingly meek forms of fitness activities like qi gong and yoga are equally as effective if not more beneficial.

Qi gong goes back far during the ancient times, streaming energy through the human body using the mapping of its meridians. Qi gong made its presence felt between my hands when teacher Olivier taught us how to feel the energy by moving my hands towards each other. Surreal feeling but true!

Yoga and Qi Gong in the City with Olivier Di Tullio

In my two hours of qi gong practice, I realized that it is a form of mind control and the power of visualization that allows the energy to be channeled from the ground and air into the body. Although intangible, it cleanses the aura and spirit for a recharged physique, a powerful practice that can impact our everyday lives in ways that we never knew. After qi gong, it is hard to believe that our mental and inner strength is something so essential that we have always ignored.

Olivier explaining the fundamentals of Qi Gong

Fitness in the City is a free-for-public exercise series held on Bintang Steps along Jalan Gading

Stretching and warm up

Relaxing the senses and just let natural breathing take place

Yoga is not only a practice of perseverance and patience but also to regulate our emotions and to connect with our soul to free ourselves from latent burden that we have accumulated through our daily struggles. Only when the mind is silent can we recognize real peace, joy, love and creativity to find solutions to our problems. We become much more resilient to stress and enjoy greater mental clarity.

For balance

For more flexibility

Olivier giving precise instructions to help achieve the correct posture

The cobra pose

For that flat tummy

Olivier encourages to  follow the best we can and not to force ourselves 

The downward dog pose

Olivier demonstrating the warrior pose

An engineer by profession, Olivier first started studying Tai Qi and Qi Gong in Singapore eight years ago. Upon his return to Malaysia, his thirst for knowing more about ancient holistic practises strengthened which led him to study Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga. Being a Yoga and Qi Gong teacher for more than three years now, he simply seeks to improve the well being of his students. 

I applaud Olivier's proficiency in giving the right description to help his students depict and practice the channeling of energy and feelings, something untouchable and unseen that is not easily imaginable by some.

Receiving positive energy

Persevere to reap the goodness of yoga

Resting position

How often do you have the chance to just lie down flat in the middle of the city

The view looking up in the city

Thank you Olivier!

Fitness in the City is part of the a fitness siries held along Bintang Steps. To check out the programme line-up, check out www.facebook.com/starhillgallery or Instagram at www.instagram.com/starhillgallery

The fitness gang after class