Qigong is a form of exercise that involves the integration of movement and posture as well as breathing and mental focus in order to cultivate qi, or vital energy. There is little clinical evidence to verify the efficacy of qigong exercises for weight loss, but the key to the exercises is to draw more air into the stomach to ensure proper digestion.
Precaution
Shen Nong suggests that people who have cardiovascular or cerebral vascular disease, kidney or liver dysfunctions, and women who are pregnant should not perform qigong exercises because of the deep breathing techniques that are essential to each exercise. The website elaborates that only your abdomen should expand and contract during deep breathing while your chest remains almost immobile. Stop performing any qigong exercise if you begin feeling weak or dizzy.
Slow, Deep Breathing
Breathe slowly and deeply for about 2 minutes before eating. According to Acufinder, performing this exercise before you eat allows greater amounts of oxygen into your body to fuel the digestive fire, which is part of the theory of how qigong facilitates weight loss. An increase in oxygen massages your internal organs and alleviates tension and stress that can inhibit digestion. Follow the deep breathing with 30 seconds of bellows breathing, which is heavy, deep breathing that further ignites the internal fire and strengthens the metabolism. Bring your abdomen toward your spine as you focus on the exhale of your last breath of this exercise. Progress to the technique called "fanning the fire" in which you continue bellows breathing but at a faster pace, according to Acufinder.
Qigong Massage
Performing a qigong massage exercise about two minutes after you eat can help ensure proper digestion, according to Acufinder. The website suggests placing both hands over the left side of your rib cage and moving them together in a circular motion between 50 and 100 times.
Ear Massage
Acufinder suggests performing an ear massage for at least one minute to ease cravings. Place one hand on each ear and move your thumb and fingers in a circle over all parts of your ear. The theory behind this exercise is that the ear has a strong connection to the nervous system and a massage can ease the impulses in the brain that crave food.
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