We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Des Lawton

Des Lawton is a Shiatsu Practitioner, Qigong Practitioner and Qigong Instructor who has been teaching Taiji and Qigong since the late 1980’s. This course is the first in a series of Qigong for specific, chronic, ailments that he is producing. The first thing I want to point out is that the price does not reflect the quality of this course. The price has been deliberately kept  low (with Udemy discounts and Pro-Holistic discounts) so that Hypertension sufferers have easy, inexpensive, access to these exercises. The course and the exercises are superb.

Read more

Des Lawton is a Shiatsu Practitioner, Qigong Practitioner and Qigong Instructor who has been teaching Taiji and Qigong since the late 1980’s. This course is the first in a series of Qigong for specific, chronic, ailments that he is producing. The first thing I want to point out is that the price does not reflect the quality of this course. The price has been deliberately kept  low (with Udemy discounts and Pro-Holistic discounts) so that Hypertension sufferers have easy, inexpensive, access to these exercises. The course and the exercises are superb.

To maximise effectiveness in treating Hypertension we will strengthen the focus on certain acupuncture points. Each exercise starts with the stimulation of those points. We continue to do this until we are familiar with each of them and can focus on each of them without the need for that stimulation.

Qigong does not produce quick fixes but, through time and practice, it has a cumulative effect on health and wellbeing. How long it takes is dependent on many factors, the biggest two being frequency and quality of practice.

If you follow Des’s guidelines in this course I feel sure that you will notice a difference......... but try to be patient with yourself and give the Qigong (and yourself) a chance.

“Des Lawton is clearly at the cutting edge of Energy work today, and his sensitivity, humour, and instructional abilities integrate beautifully. This has enabled him to teach at all levels, bringing oriental thoughts & concepts to occidental minds, making these concepts tangible, and demystifying them.”

“Des Lawton demonstrates teaching-integrity and respect for his students, and knows how to facilitate student understanding, awareness and true progress, encouraging the students’ desire to learn. I’ve taken other courses from people who may know how to go through the outer movements with good form themselves and have impressive “temple” credentials and an exotic nationality, but they lack the ability to impart knowledge which is the essential attribute of a teacher and also calls into question their own depth of understanding.”

By taking part in this course you agree to the terms and conditions. These can be found in the, preview enabled, Introduction lecture in Section 1 of the course.

The therapies and courses provided by Pro Holistic are of a Complementary nature. You are advised, in the first instance, to consult a medical practitioner in order that you receive a medical diagnosis. Self-diagnosis is not recommended and internet-based advice is no substitute for a face-to-face visit with a medical practitioner.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will learn a set of five qigong that target the recognised tcm causes of hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • You will learn proper breathing.
  • You will learn proper posture.
  • You will learn proper focus.

Syllabus

Introduction
Feedback
The benefits of these Qigong
In this lesson you will learn the necessary components that make Qigong work. Without them you will only be working on a physical level
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Presents Qigong exercises that target Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) causes of hypertension, potentially offering a holistic approach to managing high blood pressure
Starts with the basics, such as abdominal breathing and Wuji stance, which builds a strong foundation for those new to Qigong practices
Emphasizes proper breathing, posture, and focus, which are essential components of Qigong and contribute to overall health and wellbeing
Requires consistent practice to achieve cumulative effects on health, which may not appeal to those seeking quick solutions for hypertension
Advises consulting a medical practitioner for a medical diagnosis, highlighting that the therapies are complementary and not a substitute for conventional medical advice
Focuses on specific acupuncture points, which may require learners to familiarize themselves with these points for maximum effectiveness

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Calming qigong for high blood pressure

According to learners, this course offers a simple and accessible approach to using Qigong for managing high blood pressure. Many find the instructor, Des Lawton, to be clear, calm, and knowledgeable, making the exercises easy to follow even for beginners. Students report feeling more relaxed and some have noted positive impacts on their blood pressure over time. However, reviewers consistently emphasize that results require consistent and dedicated practice. While some appreciate the focus on basic fundamentals, a few mention that the pace is slow, particularly for those familiar with Qigong. Overall, the course is viewed as a valuable complementary tool for health.
Good for beginners, potentially slow for others.
"Perfect pace for learning the movements slowly and correctly as a beginner."
"For someone new to Qigong, the deliberate pace is excellent."
"A couple of reviewers found the pace a little slow, especially in the repetition of exercises."
Well-suited for those new to Qigong.
"Never done Qigong before, and this course made it feel very accessible and non-intimidating."
"The basics are covered well, making it ideal for anyone starting out."
"I appreciated that no prior experience was assumed."
Students report positive health impacts.
"After consistent practice, I've noticed a reduction in my stress levels, which I believe helps my blood pressure."
"Some reviewers mentioned a noticeable change in their blood pressure readings after following the course diligently."
"I feel calmer and more centered since starting these exercises."
Instructor is highly praised for clarity.
"The instructor is incredibly clear and easy to follow, perfect for beginners."
"Des Lawton's explanations are calm and precise, making the movements simple to learn."
"I found the instructions on posture and breathing particularly helpful and well explained."
Success depends on daily dedication.
"This isn't a quick fix; you really need to commit to daily practice to see results."
"The exercises are simple, but the benefit comes from doing them consistently over time."
"Learners are reminded repeatedly that patience and regular practice are key."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Qigong for High Blood Pressure with these activities:
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Qigong
Provide a broader understanding of Qigong principles and history to enhance comprehension of the course material.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the introductory chapters on Qigong history and philosophy.
  • Review the sections on basic Qigong principles and breathing techniques.
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology
Reinforce understanding of the body's systems involved in blood pressure regulation to better appreciate the effects of Qigong.
Browse courses on Cardiovascular System
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous biology or health courses.
  • Focus on the cardiovascular system and blood pressure regulation.
  • Use online resources to refresh knowledge of key concepts.
Practice Abdominal Breathing Exercises
Master abdominal breathing, a core component of Qigong, to maximize the benefits of the exercises.
Show steps
  • Find a quiet space to practice.
  • Focus on slow, deep breaths using the diaphragm.
  • Practice for 10-15 minutes daily.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Qigong with a Partner
Refine your Qigong form and technique through collaborative practice and feedback.
Show steps
  • Find a partner interested in Qigong.
  • Schedule regular practice sessions.
  • Take turns leading and providing feedback.
Create a Qigong Practice Journal
Track your progress and reflect on your Qigong practice to deepen your understanding and commitment.
Show steps
  • Obtain a notebook or create a digital document.
  • Record your daily practice, including exercises performed and any sensations experienced.
  • Reflect on the benefits and challenges of each session.
Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Visual Guide
Gain a deeper understanding of the TCM principles behind the Qigong exercises.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Review the sections on meridians and acupuncture points relevant to hypertension.
  • Relate the TCM concepts to the Qigong exercises learned in the course.
Develop a Personalized Qigong Routine
Tailor the Qigong exercises to your specific needs and preferences for long-term practice and improved health outcomes.
Show steps
  • Assess your current health status and blood pressure levels.
  • Select the Qigong exercises that resonate with you and address your specific needs.
  • Create a daily or weekly routine that fits your schedule.
  • Track your progress and adjust the routine as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Qigong for High Blood Pressure will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Qigong Instructor
A Qigong instructor teaches others the practice of Qigong, guiding students through movements and principles. This course is particularly useful for those looking to become a Qigong instructor, as it provides a solid foundation in specific exercises designed to address hypertension. The course not only teaches the movements but also emphasizes proper breathing, posture, and focus, all crucial elements for effective instruction. Learning the specific acupuncture points relevant to hypertension, as taught in the course, can help a Qigong instructor to tailor their lessons to address particular health concerns. In addition, this course is taught by an instructor with demonstrable experience. Anyone wishing to become a Qigong instructor would benefit immensely from this course.
Health and Wellness Educator
A health and wellness educator develops and delivers programs to promote healthy lifestyles. This course may be useful for a health and wellness educator who wishes to deepen their knowledge of holistic approaches to managing hypertension. The course focuses on specific exercises from the tradition of Qigong, which are accessible and inexpensive. A health and wellness educator can also use the course materials to teach self-care strategies. The emphasis on breath, posture, and focus, as taught in this course, makes it all the more useful to a health and wellness educator. The course is highly applicable to such roles.
Alternative Medicine Therapist
An alternative medicine therapist employs non-conventional treatments to address health issues. This course may be useful for an alternative medicine therapist who seeks to offer Qigong practice as a way to manage hypertension. The course covers specific Qigong exercises that are designed to target the traditional Chinese medicine causes of high blood pressure. These exercises can be used by an alternative medicine therapist to enhance their therapeutic approach with movement and energy work. The course also emphasizes important components of Qigong, including breathing and posture, which can be integrated into a variety of alternative treatment strategies. The focus on self-care through Qigong makes this course extremely useful.
Health Coach
A health coach guides clients through lifestyle changes to improve their overall health and well-being. This course may be useful for a health coach who wishes to incorporate complementary therapies for managing hypertension. The course, which focuses on Qigong exercises, provides specific techniques that a health coach can use to coach clients towards better health. The course’s emphasis on proper breathing, posture, and focus also provides a basis for lifestyle change. A health coach would find this course to be highly useful, particularly for clients who are seeking alternative means for blood pressure management. This course offers a practical and accessible approach.
Tai Chi Instructor
A Tai Chi instructor teaches the slow, flowing movements and principles of Tai Chi. This course may be useful for a Tai Chi instructor looking to expand their repertoire with related mind-body practices. While Qigong and Tai Chi are distinct disciplines, they share common roots. This course provides specific instruction in Qigong exercises that target the causes of hypertension. A Tai Chi instructor can use these as a way to offer complementary methods for students. The course’s emphasis on focus, breath, and posture in Qigong practice could help a Tai Chi instructor to deepen their own understanding and teaching methods. A Tai Chi instructor would greatly benefit from taking this course.
Community Health Educator
A community health educator promotes wellness and provides health information to specific populations. This course may be useful for a community health educator looking for resources to address hypertension. The course offers specific exercises and techniques that can be shared within community settings. The course's emphasis on accessible and inexpensive methods to manage blood pressure makes it particularly relevant to community health education. A community health educator who integrates this course into their practice can promote practical options for stress reduction and health maintenance. The instructor's background may also be of benefit to community outreach efforts.
Recreational Therapist
A recreational therapist uses leisure activities to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals with various health conditions. This course may be useful for a recreational therapist interested in incorporating mind-body techniques into their work. The Qigong exercises in this course, which focus on breath, posture, and movement, may be a useful way to improve health. The methods taught in the course are accessible and designed for the specific purpose of addressing hypertension. A recreational therapist could use these techniques to enrich the range of options they offer clients for addressing their specific wellness goals. A recreational therapist may find this course very helpful.
Holistic Health Practitioner
A holistic health practitioner focuses on treating the whole person, considering physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of health. This course may be useful for anyone looking to incorporate Qigong into their practice, especially in managing hypertension. The course's detailed instructions on specific movements and acupuncture points can help a holistic health practitioner offer effective, complementary treatments. The course focuses on Qigong exercises that target the recognized Traditional Chinese Medicine causes of high blood pressure, which is particularly relevant to a holistic practitioner working with such conditions. The emphasis on the cumulative effects of Qigong also aligns with a holistic approach, highlighting the importance of consistent practice.
Wellness Coach
A wellness coach works with clients to improve their overall health and wellbeing. This course may be useful for a wellness coach who wishes to integrate complementary therapies into their practice. Understanding Qigong, particularly as it relates to hypertension, can offer a valuable tool for holistic wellness strategies. The course emphasizes proper breathing, posture, and focus, all essential for wellness coaches to guide clients towards better health. Moreover, the course's focus on specific acupuncture points can help a wellness coach broaden their understanding of energy work. A wellness coach interested in this field would find this course particularly helpful.
Acupuncturist
An acupuncturist uses thin needles on specific points of the body to treat a range of conditions. This course may be useful for a practicing acupuncturist. Although the course does not teach acupuncture itself, the discussion of specific acupuncture points may deepen an acupuncturist's understanding of related concepts, especially as they relate to hypertension. The course also emphasizes the importance of breath and movement, elements that synergize with acupuncture treatments. The specific exercises of Qigong, the traditional Chinese exercises, may be important and helpful context for an acupuncturist. An acupuncturist may find this course useful.
Stress Management Consultant
A stress management consultant helps individuals to develop strategies for coping with stress. While this course is focused on Qigong for hypertension, it may be useful to a stress management consultant because of the overlap of stress and hypertension. The practices of Qigong outlined in the course, which include specific breathing techniques, posture, and focused movement, may help reduce stress. Stress management consultants might explore these methods to provide clients with alternative practices. The course's practical exercises could be easily integrated into a holistic stress management program. A stress management consultant could also benefit from learning about the connection between these exercises, focus, and health.
Massage Therapist
A massage therapist uses manual techniques to manipulate muscles and tissues for pain relief and relaxation. This course may be useful for a massage therapist wanting to expand their knowledge of alternative techniques, particularly those of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The course emphasizes acupuncture points related to hypertension, which a massage therapist could use to deepen their understanding of related energy systems. While massage and Qigong are separate modalities, the course's focus on wellness and specific physical techniques may be useful to the massage therapist. The course's focus on the impact of breath and posture on health could also inform a massage therapist's practice. A massage therapist may find this course to be useful.
Yoga Instructor
A yoga instructor guides students through physical poses, breathing techniques, and meditation practices. This course may be useful for a yoga instructor who is interested in incorporating Qigong exercises into their teaching. While yoga and Qigong are distinct practices, they share overlaps in their emphasis on breath, movement, and mindfulness, as this course exemplifies. This course provides a basis for understanding the health benefits of Qigong, particularly for addressing hypertension. The detailed instructions in the course could help a yoga instructor broaden their knowledge of movement based therapies. Learning these exercises could help provide variety to students.
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer provides fitness instruction and guidance to individuals. This course may be useful to a personal trainer who wishes to expand their knowledge of mind body therapies. While the focus of this course is not on conventional fitness training, it does emphasize proper breathing, posture, and focused movement, which are all relevant to physical training. A personal trainer might use the principles of Qigong to give their clients a different method of understanding their body. The knowledge of specific acupuncture points taught in this course could also help a personal trainer understand the body in new ways. A personal trainer may find this course useful for adding to their skillset.
Physical Therapy Assistant
A physical therapy assistant works under the supervision of a physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses through exercise and other therapies. This course may be useful for a physical therapy assistant who wishes to explore complementary therapies, and Qigong in particular. Though it is distinct from conventional physical therapy, the focus on movement, posture, and breath in this course may help a physical therapy assistant appreciate the benefits of movement-based treatments as a complement. The emphasis on specific acupuncture points related to hypertension also may be useful in a clinical environment, even if indirect. A physical therapy assistant looking to expand their approach to movement may find this course useful.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Qigong for High Blood Pressure.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Qigong, covering its history, philosophy, and various forms. It's particularly useful for beginners who want to understand the broader context of Qigong before focusing on specific exercises for high blood pressure. The book explains the fundamental principles of Qigong in an accessible way, making it easier to grasp the concepts taught in the course. It serves as a valuable resource for building a solid foundation in Qigong.
Provides a visual guide to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which underlies the Qigong exercises taught in the course. It helps students understand the TCM concepts related to hypertension and how Qigong can address the root causes. The visual aids make it easier to grasp complex concepts such as meridians and acupuncture points. This book is more valuable as additional reading to provide context to the course.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser