QiGong: An Introduction

The healing art of QiGong is similar to T'ai Chi. It also comes from ancient China and has spread to the Western world in the last century. But, many people still do not know what it is or how it works. Here is some information to get you more acquainted with the art of QiGong.

QiGong is pronounced CHEE KUNG. This translates from Chinese as "energy work." Qi is the energy of life. It is the energy that makes the universe work. It is a vital force in all living things. QiGong is a form of exercise that builds and maintains the body's level of Qi. It also helps to ensure that Qi circulates freely throughout the body. QiGong works to get rid of depression, fatigue, stress, and pollution. It is a way to re-educate your body and mind and encourage a new way of living to become healthier.

There are numerous styles of QiGong. The styles have developed different movements that achieve the same effect. Each of these styles begins with range of core exercises that can be divided into two types. The first involves exercises in which you do not visibly move your body. These are silent movements that work on posture and realigning the body to help Qi flow throughout the body more easily. This is often a meditative type of exercise.

The second type of QiGong are exercises that involve movement of the body. Joint mobilization, stretching tendons, strengthening muscles, and improving balance and coordination are the goals of this type of QiGong. And, within these goals are the slow and steady movements. There should be no strain or impact to these graceful movements. Another goal is to improve blood circulation. The movements will release stored Qi, expel used and stale Qi, and help build up the body's store of new Qi.

There are also visualizations that accompany the movements of QiGong. The goal is to train the mind to follow the flow of Qi through the body. There are meditations done while standing that are exercises to help develop awareness of Qi in and around the body. Hopefully, these will teach the practitioner to control the flow and direction of Qi within the body. In this way, it is possible to direct it to places that need healing. This directing of Qi to where it is needed is the main goal of QiGong.

QiGong is an excellent exercise for anyone in any physical shape or fitness level. There are methods for people in wheelchairs and even pregnant women. It is wonderful because the movements are slow and easy and there is no impact to jar sore joints and muscles. Hopefully, after reading this, you will be starting on a new path in physical and mental fitness.

SOURCE

Clark, Angus. "Secrets of QiGung." 2001. DK Publishing. New York, NY, USA.