Why You Might Feel Worse After Chinese Energetic Medicine (Medical Qigong) — And Why That’s a Good Thing

Healing isn’t always about feeling better right away. Sometimes, it’s about clearing the path.

At River of Gnosis, many of my clients come to Medical Qigong sessions seeking relief—from chronic pain, emotional heaviness, fatigue, or spiritual disconnection. And while Medical Qigong is deeply effective at restoring balance and vitality, there’s a phenomenon that catches people off guard: you might feel worse before you feel better.

Before you worry—know this is not only normal…
It’s often a powerful sign that your healing has begun.

The Healing Crisis: Your Body’s Reset Button

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical Qigong is often referred to as “acupuncture without needles”—a direct, hands-on method of moving and balancing Qi, your body’s life-force energy.

When we work together, I emit Qi from a distance and help guide your system into harmony. This releases what no longer serves you—stagnant energy, emotional residue, and deep-seated blockages. And sometimes, as this energy clears, it can intensify before it dissipates.

This is called a healing crisis—your body’s way of pushing toxins, trauma, and tension to the surface so it can finally let them go.

Why You Might Feel “Off” After a Session

Here’s what you might experience post-treatment—and why it’s actually a good sign:

🌀 Emotional Waves – You may feel unusually emotional, tired, or even irritable. That’s not random—it’s your nervous system recalibrating as suppressed emotions are released.

🌀 Heightened Sensations – Medical Qigong increases awareness. Areas of discomfort or tightness may rise to the surface because your body is now awake to its own healing.

🌀 Energy Rebalancing – You may feel fatigued or slightly disoriented as your body adjusts to new energetic pathways. Think of it like rebooting your internal system.

Healing Isn’t Linear—It’s Sacred

Just as a fever can signal your immune system is working, post-Qigong discomfort can mean your energetic system is healing at a deep level. These temporary symptoms are the body's way of clearing old patterns—spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

So if you feel a bit off, don’t panic.
You’re not regressing. You’re releasing.

How to Support Your Integration

🌿 Hydrate + Rest – Your system is detoxing. Water helps flush energy and emotions that are leaving the body. Give yourself permission to rest.

🌿 Gentle Movement – Light walks, stretching, or breathwork can help Qi move smoothly post-session.

🌿 Compassion Over Criticism – Be tender with yourself. Healing is courageous work. Honor your pace.

🌿 Keep the Dialogue Open – Every session is part of a dialogue between your body, your energy, and me as your practitioner. If something feels off or intense, reach out. I’ll help guide your next steps.

Trust Your Body. Trust the Work.

You’ve already taken a sacred step by saying yes to your healing.
And even if it doesn’t feel like relief right away, transformation is unfolding.

The discomfort you feel now is often the last echo of an old version of you—the one you’re courageously leaving behind. On the other side? More clarity, energy, alignment, and peace.

Keep going.
Your best self is waiting.
And I’m honored to walk this path with you.

With reverence,
Dr. Robert Abrams, DCEM
Founder of River of Gnosis