Qigong Healing Exercise

Qigong is a system of healing that has its roots in ancient Chinese philosophies about the energy, or "qi," that underlies, forms and organizes the physical world. Many different practices fall under the umbrella of qigong, including alternative healing techniques performed by a practitioner, Buddhist and Taoist spiritual practices, and some martial arts exercises. The most predominant form of qigong consists of exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the body, while relieving stress through a meditative focus. Qigong healing exercises are a safe complement for conventional medical therapies, but are not a replacement.

Theories

According to Kenneth S. Cohen, qigong practitioner since 1968 and one of the earliest people to help establish a bridge between qigong and medical science, qigong has powerful healing effects because it strengthens and cleanses the electromagnetic field that surrounds and permeates the body. Many complementary and alternative healing modalities work on the principle that this energy field serves to organize the body's tissues and processes. By expanding and fine tuning this field, qigong creates conditions for optimal health.

Benefits

Qigong practitioners claim it has physical, mental and spiritual benefits. Ilchi Lee, author of "Meridian Exercise for Self-Healing," lists enhanced circulation, better spine alignment and improved stress management among the wide variety of benefits of qigong. Preliminary studies suggest that qigong can help with chronic health issues. A 2010 review of research on tai chi and qigong, published in the "American Journal of Health Promotion," showed that qigong and tai chi improve bone density, cardiopulmonary health and quality of life, among other significant measures of health.

Considerations

As an exercise, qigong is more about what's going on inside your body and mind than external movement. In this way it differs from most forms of Western exercise. Learning to notice where you hold tension and being able to release those areas are two keys to advancing in your practice and getting the health benefits of qigong. For this reason, it is virtually impossible to learn qigong from a book or video. For optimal results, find a local qigong class that you can attend regularly.

What to Expect

A typical qigong class involves standing exercises, and might also include sitting meditation in a chair or on the floor. Expect to receive instruction on where to put your hands and feet and how to perform movements, as well as suggestions for improving technique. The more you relax, focus and practice whole body movements as you do qigong, the better you will feel. Because learning qigong can be a long and personal journey, be sure to interview any prospective teacher to determine your compatibility with her before you begin classes.

Expert Insight

Garri Garripoli, qigong teacher and director of the documentary "Qigong--Ancient Chinese Healing for the 21st Century," notes in his book "Qigong: Essence of the Healing Dance" that there are no limits on who can practice qigong. Qigong exercises are endlessly adaptable, so even if you are limited to a bed or wheelchair, you can still begin qigong practice by performing modified versions of the movement or breathing exercises. A good qigong instructor will work with your body as it is to gradually balance your energy.

References

• "The Way of Qigong;" Kenneth S. Cohen; 1999
• "Meridian Exercise for Self-Healing: Classified by Common Symptoms;" Ilchi Lee; 2003
• "American Journal of Health Promotion;" A Comprehensive Review of Health Benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi; July/August 2010
• Wuji Productions: Qigong--Ancient Chinese Healing for the 21st Century
• "Qigong: Essence of the Healing Dance;" Garri Garripoli; 1999