What is Qigong or Qi gong?

Introduction to Qigong, its Types and Benefits

Jan 25, 2010
Prerna Malik

There are Many Styles of Qi gong - TarcísioTS

Qigong means working with the body's energy, known as qi or chi. Here is an introduction to this ancient Chinese healing practice and the types and benefits of qigong.

Qigong is the movement or self-healing technique that helps to remove energy blocks in the body and balance the flow of qi or energy as well. When qi flows easily, health and wellbeing improve dramatically. Qigong or Qi gong(pronounced chee-gung) is an interesting and increasingly popular form of self-healing and relaxation.

According to Kenneth S. Cohen, “Qigong is practiced by more than 80 million Chinese people and probably by tens of thousands in the United States and Europe.” Due to the fluidity and ease of movements as well as the many benefits associated with its practice, various types of qigong are becoming increasingly popular.

Here is an introduction to qigong and the various benefits of learning and practicing this ancient Chinese spiritual practice.

What is Qigong or Qi gong

A strict definition of qigong is not possible due to its diverse roots and history. However, qigong can be understood to be a Chinese spiritual or self-healing practice which involves a set of movements and techniques to regulate the bodily functions and make the practitioner aware of these functions. The practice involves both active exercise and passive meditation.

Types and Styles of Qigong

There are many types and styles of Qigong that have emerged over the years. According to Roger Jahnke O.M.D, in Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide, meditation is an example of internal or quiescent Qigong while Tai Chi is a dynamic form. These styles are associated with the many existing schools of Taoist practice.

Some styles and techniques are designed for overall health and wellness and may be practiced every day while others are meant for specific ailments and conditions. Some may include a lot of physical movements while others may be more internally-oriented. Everyone — men, women, the young and the old as well as the physically challenged — can practice Qigong.

While the styles of qigong may vary, the basic principles remain the same. The movements are all based on keeping the posture relaxed, the spine supple and the movements easy and fluid with an overall sense of peaceful mindfulness. The basic goal of all the qigong forms is also to encourage and enable a healthy balance of qi or life-force energy.

Benefits of Practicing Qigong

There are many advantages attached to practicing qigong. According to Goldberg, Trivieri and Anderson "Additional research has shown that Qigong, when regularly practiced, can benefit patients suffering from hypertension, due to its ability to elevate blood levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol while lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglyceride levels." The authors also quote several studies in which qigong has benefited patients suffering from diabetes, asthma, late-stage regional pain syndrome as well as patients recovering from coronary artery bypass surgery.

According to Cohen, “Qigong has been rigorously tested in controlled scientific experiments and clinical trials and is often used as an adjunct to conventional allopathic medical treatment.” By increasing and balancing the flow of energy through the body, qigong can improve conditions such as hypertension.

Learning Qigong and Choosing a Qigong Master

Due to the many styles and types of qigong, it does become difficult to decide whom to choose or follow as a teacher. Cohen states that a qigong master, also known as a qi gong lao-shi, must be humble and compassionate and be open to questioning and dialogue. It is essential to be wary when choosing the right master to learn qigong since there are many con artists who try to dupe the public. Several renowned qigong masters have also written books and produced qigong DVDs and CDs to help learners practice this ancient art without having to leave home.

Qigong is, like most Taoist practices, an ideal way to learn to empty the mind and yet be aware. It is a practice that allows one to experience awareness of energy completely and fully. Whether one uses it for exercise, meditation, health or tranquility, qigong has benefits that extend far beyond and bring with it a sense of equilibrium and harmony.

Readers of this article may enjoy reading A Brief Introduction to Taoism History, along with What is Qi or Chi and An Introduction to the Three Treasures in Taoism.

Sources:

Goldberg, Burton. Trivieri, Larry. Anderson, John W. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. Celestial Arts, 2002.

Cohen, Kenneth S. What is Qigong. QigongHealing .com.