Kscope12: Health and Fitness

May 23, 2012 by Lori

This is the fourth in a series of posts by guest blogger and Oracle Data Warrior, Kent Graziano ( ), who is our Fun Factor Fitness Guru for Kscope12. Last year at Kscope11, he introduced us to the practice of Chi Gung with his popular early morning sessions outside the convention center. Look forward to more Chi Gung at the JW Marriott Hill Country this June.

Morning Chi Gung (and other Fitness Fun)

For years ODTUG’s conference slogan has been “Work Hard, Play Hard.” To do that, at full throttle, for four to five days in a row, away from home and your normal routine, you need to be in top form—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Last year I started what I hope will become another long term tradition at Kscope. Join me each morning (Sunday – Thursday) at 7:00 AM on the Cibolo Moon Lawn for a 30-minute session of moving meditation to get you ready to get the most from your day in San Antonio.

For those that do not know, Chi Gung is an ancient Chinese practice designed to calm and focus the mind, strengthen the body, and increase your overall energy level (Chi). It is practiced by thousands every day in China and all over the world for its health benefits. Often referred to as moving meditation, Chi Gung breathing exercises have been shown to have innumerable health benefits as the gentle motions aid in the flow of Chi energy throughout your system. For those who may have enjoyed the evening festivities a bit too much J, the Chi Gung exercises will also help you detoxify your system before you head in for a nutritious breakfast!

In these 30-minute sessions, I will guide you through several easy to learn routines that anyone can learn. The movements are similar to what many have seen in Tai Chi, but unlike Tai Chi, the movements are for improving your health and have no martial arts or self-defense intentions. Check out this video from Kscope11 to see what a session looks like.

 

Here are a few of the comments I received about the sessions we held in Long Beach:

“Kent organized the Chi Gung class at this year’s ODTUG Kscope11 event, which was very enjoyable. A very relaxing way to start the day. Kent explained the exercises very clearly, which made it easier to follow for first time practitioners.” 

“Kent provided Chi Gung sessions to supplement an IT conference. It was a great way to set us up for the day and it was great fun. Ken was patient and yet educational, repeating the main concepts each day for new people. I attended for five consecutive days and would have loved to have done more.” 

Even if you have existing health issues, each routine can be varied in intensity to fit your particular needs and goals. Once you learn the routines, you can continue to practice them on your own, anywhere at any time when you just need a break or need to recharge before the next big meeting.

Follow me on twitter to get updates at the conference then come join me each morning to start your day and create a new ODTUG tradition!- Kent

P.S. Don’t forget about all the other great fitness opportunities at the JW Marriott Hill Country. Check them out here: http://www.jwsanantonio.com/Hill-Country-Texas/Resort-Activities-11.html.

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