Healing With YOQI®: A Gentle Path to Wellness
- Freya Bennett-Overstall
- Jul 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 1
In our fast-paced, often stressful world, more and more people are searching for ways not only to recover from illness or burnout, but to reclaim and sustain our health over the long term.
One deeply effective and time-honoured method is Qigong (pronounced chee-gong)—a mindful practice of movement, breath, and energy cultivation rooted in thousands of years of Chinese medicine and tradition.
I’m incredibly excited to share that, after many years of dedicated practice and study with Marisa Cranfill, I am now a Certified YOQI® Qigong Instructor (as of July 1st, 2025).
What is Qigong?
Qigong is a holistic health practice that supports the smooth flow of Qi—our vital life force energy. Through slow, intentional movement, breath awareness and focused intention, Qigong helps to unblock stagnant energy, calm the nervous system, and release both physical and emotional tension.
What is YOQI®?
YOQI® (Yoga + Qigong + Integrative Energy Arts) is a contemporary movement system that combines the ancient wisdom of Qigong and Yoga. Created by Marisa Cranfill, YOQI® is designed to help people cultivate and balance their energy through flowing movement, visualization, acupressure, breathwork, and meditation. It is gentle, accessible, and deeply nourishing—ideal for all ages, body types, and health conditions.
"YOQI® energy routines seamlessly integrate awareness-based movement and self-healing techniques from two of the most powerful and time-tested mind-body-spirit practices: yoga and qigong" ~ excerpt from the YOQI website.
The YOQI® method focuses on:
Cultivating energy rather than using force,
Coordinating movement and breath,
Balancing yin and yang within the body,
Supporting stress reduction and emotional wellbeing,
Aligning with nature’s rhythms and seasonal cycles.
YOQI® offers a complete energy wellness system that restores harmony in the body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're managing stress, recovering from illness, or simply wanting to feel more grounded and vibrant, YOQI® provides a clear, healing path forward.
Healing Stories From My Students
I continue to be deeply inspired by the transformations I witness in my students—and in myself. Over the years I’ve seen individuals living with chronic fatigue, autoimmune conditions such as Parkinson’s and MS, stroke recovery, insomnia, arthritis, grief, and anxiety, experience real relief through consistent practice. Many, myself included, report feeling calmer, stronger, healthier, and more connected to their body, mind, and spirit.
The gentle approach of YOQI® makes this healing journey accessible to everyone—regardless of age, experience, or physical ability. It offers a powerful path toward balance, resilience, and renewed vitality.
Why Try YOQI® Qigong?
Enhances energy flow – clears and balances Qi for vitality and wellbeing.
Calms the nervous system – supports stress relief and emotional resilience.
Releases tension – eases pain, stiffness, and energetic blockages.
Adaptable for all – suitable for every age, body type, and health condition.
Practice With Me: In Person & Online
You’re warmly invited to explore YOQI® with me through various offerings:
🌿 Fortnightly In-Person Classes – Held at Maitri Studio Brighton, indoors or outdoors in the garden, weather permitting.
📺 New YouTube Channel – Practice with me anytime, from anywhere.
🧘♀️ Insight Timer – Join my live sessions and guided meditations on the world’s #1 app for sleep, mindfulness, and anxiety.
🌸 Retreats & Workshops – Including the Women’s Midlife Wellness Retreat, October 11–14, in the Byron Bay Hinterland
Practice With Marisa:
Marisa has many beautiful and powerful videos to practice with her via the YOQI® YouTube Channel
Whether online or in person, these practices are here to support you and meet you exactly where you are. If you have any questions please reach out and ask.
With love and Qi blessings,
Freya
Congratulations Freya. Amazing dedication. 💚🎉