The word Qigong (Chi Kung) is made up of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced Chee and is usually translated to mean ‘vital energy’ or ‘life force energy’ that flows through all things in the universe. The second word, Gong, pronounced Gung, means skill that is cultivated through steady practice. Together, Qigong (Chi Kung) means cultivating ‘vital energy’.
Qigong is an ancient Chinese health care practice that integrates slow physical movements, breathing techniques, focused intention and meditation to gather, store, cleanse, strengthen, and circulate the vital energy (qi) within the body. Qigong practice leads to better health and vitality, a tranquil state of mind and higher self-awareness.
Qigong dates back to at least five thousand years ago and the original ancient word for it was ‘Yang sheng’ translated to ‘nurturing life’. This term includes healing exercises, meditations and any other practices that contribute to physical, mental, emotional and spiritual balance. To nurture life is not only for our own personal well-being but to live in a way that cares for the life around us, all of nature.
Qigong’s simplicity, yet with its profound effects on body, mind and spirit, makes it easy to learn, enjoyable to do and suitable for all ages and capabilities.
With consistent practice Qigong works on breaking down energy blockages and promotes the free flow of energy throughout the body’s meridian system, the invisible pathways through which ‘vital energy’ moves and that connect everything in your body. The internal organs are stimulated and nourished, making the energetic communication between them more efficient. By increasing the effectiveness of all the body systems Qigong helps to conserve vital energy. In order to have good health you must have sufficient vital energy that flows freely throughout your body, and your internal organs must function together in harmony.
Practicing Qigong consistently and even with as little as 20 minutes a day, you can replenish your body’s ‘vital energy’ at a very deep level, reawakening your body’s natural self-healing capacity. It is completely possible to overcome any chronic physical or emotional issues you may be experiencing and dramatically improve your quality of life in a non-invasive way. For those who are truly ready to engage with life and health issues on a more profound level, serious practice of Qigong and a deep commitment to change can not only entirely transform your physical health but also your life direction and Way of Being.
In practicing Qigong there are both external and internal movements. These internal movements or flows in China are called neigong or “internal power”. It is these internal neigong movements that make Qigong a superior health and wellness practice and which also differentiates it from almost every other form of exercise in the West that often emphasises prolonged cardiovascular movements (such as running and biking) or that focus on muscular strength training (weight lifting etc).
Qigong creates an awareness of and influences dimensions of our being that are not a part of traditional exercise programs. Most other forms of exercise programs do not include the meridian system nor do they emphasise the importance of adding mindful intent and breathing techniques to physical movements. When these dimensions are added the benefits of exercise increase exponentially.
The gentle, slow rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality and enhance the immune system. Some of the other benefits that can be derived from the regular practice of Qigong are; relaxes the mind, muscles, tendons, joints and inner organs. Improves posture, balance, flexibility, circulation, blood pressure, cholesterol and hormone levels, kidney function, digestion and mental acuity.
One of the more important long term effects of Qigong is that it reestablishes the mind, body, spirit connection. People do Qigong to maintain health, heal their bodies, calm their minds, and reconnect with their spirit. When these three aspects of our being are integrated, it encourages a positive outlook on life and helps to eliminate harmful attitudes and behaviors. It also creates a balanced lifestyle, which brings greater harmony, stability and enjoyment into life.
When asked “What is the most important aspect of practicing Qigong” the answer is always “Just do it”.
