How to Do Qigong Exercises

Overview

Qigong exercises are closely related to tai chi. They are gentle exercises and stretches that are not difficult to do, but they promote increased flexibility and strength by doing them regularly.

Step 1

Stand up with your knees flexed slightly to do the Autumn Breeze. Bend both elbows at about a 45-degree angle. Bring your right hand close to your left elbow as you twist slowly to the left. Hold this for two seconds before returning to the neutral position. Then do the same exercise to the right side. Do 10 Autumn Breeze stretches to each side.

Step 2

Stand up straight and keep your knees slightly bent. Bring your left hand in front of your left shoulder and bend your arm at the elbow so your fingertips are in front of the center of your body. Do the same motion with your right arm. Your fingertips should be touching and they will form a cloud. Raise your arms up and down 10 times. This is the Cloud Hands exercise.

Step 3

Place your hands in front of you with your palms facing the ceiling. Slowly make a half-circle with your hands until the palms of your hands are facing the floor. Lower your hands about 12 to 18 inches. This exercise is called Awakening the Chi. Do this 10 times.

Step 4

Bend your knees and place your left foot about 12 inches in front of your right. Place your right arm at knee level and bend down as if you are holding a basket. You will pantomime scooping up water as if you were near a lake or the ocean. Raise your arms. Do this exercise 10 times and then turn the opposite way with your right foot in front of the left and do the same set.

Step 5

Stand up straight, as tall as you can make your body with your feet shoulder width apart. Spread your arms as wide as you can. Bring your hands slowly down as you move your fingers. You are pantomiming the flight of an eagle, hence the name "Fly Like an Eagle." Do this movement 10 times.