Benefits of Qigong

"Qi (chi) is the Chinese term for life energy, or life spirit, a vital force that flows through all living things. It is an essential part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, qigong and the Chinese martial arts. When our Qi is in harmony, we tend towards wellness, health and longevity. When our Qi is in disharmony we tend towards disease, suffering and collapse."

- Subtle Energy Sciences

Qigong is an ancient Chinese therapeutic movement that looks a bit like Tai Chi but concentrates on the medical aspects of health and supporting body systems. “Qi” stands for the qi energy that is being cultivated and “Gong” means mastery. It is beautifully gentle and for all ages. It also teaches breathing, visualization and how to increase your qi. It can be combined with mediation and is easy to build into a daily routine as it can be done anywhere.

Qigong is key to a holistic practice in TCM and is taught along with acupuncture, herbal medicine and other tools for improving health like Tui Na which is a form of massage. Between treatments of acupuncture and along with herbal formulas, qigong is recommended and often prescribed. The guided movements and controlled breathing are designed to keep specific meridian channels open and clear. It can also include self massage, sound and focused intent.

Many have found that this particular practice can help improve the immune system, reduce stress and help with focus and balance. The movements facilitate a more balanced body in terms of function, by resetting the body to neutral and releasing blockages in the energy flow. My favourite set of movements is called the Eight Brocade because it is comprehensive and easy to remember. There are many examples of this on the internet if you look at YouTube.

"When you cultivate balance and harmony within yourself, or in the world, that is Tai Chi. When you work and play with the essence of energy of life, nature and the universe for healing, clarity and inner peace, this is Qigong." - Roger Jahnke