Qigong (pronounced "chee-kong") exercises are a Chinese form of movement meant to release the energy that sometimes blocks the "qi," or energy center of the body. Trainers at Qigong Energy Guide say that the exercises are easy to follow and consist of a combination of simple movements, controlled breathing and concentrated focus.
Healing
In Chinese medicine, the qi, or chi, is the primary substance in the body that controls all body functions. Health and peace of mind are interrelated through the proper balancing of the energy levels that serve every organ and system in the body. Practitioners at TCMPage.com say that health problems occur when the energy is blocked to the heart-qi or stomach-qi and can be released through qigong.
Emotions
Emotions often are the cause of blocked qi. Negative feelings, such as anger and fear, that are maintained and held closely can cause headaches and dizziness, distress and appetite loss. Qigong taps into the mental realm to help circulate the energy that was blocked. Qigong is the practice of integrating the mind and body to overcome stress and disease and to maintain the even flow of energy in the body.
Exercise
Unlike physical exercise, qigong is more of a psychosomatic exercise. Instead of tensing the muscles, increasing heart rate and taxing the respiratory system, qigong serves to slow down and regulate the heart rate, slow breathing and restore calm. The principle behind qigong is to store energy rather than to expend it.
Basics
Internal qigong is practiced by individuals on their own bodies to promote good health. The basics of qigong are focused in the breathing exercises. Qigong trainers at Chikung-Unlimited recommend that beginners become familiar with their own breathing patterns to recognize normal breathing. Most qigong exercises can be performed sitting up or lying down. A deep breath should be taken to fill the abdomen, which is why the technique often is called "belly breathing." Pause for no more than a few seconds before releasing the air. Wait a few more seconds and repeat the breathing exercise until a slow, easy pattern is established.
Styles
Once the breathing techniques are mastered, qigong students move on to a variety of movements and meditations that comprise the qigong method. Qigong varies from simple movements to complex arrangements of the limbs, similar to yoga poses. Qigong practitioners say that the techniques are useful for losing weight because the proper flow of oxygen and energy balances metabolism and digestion. Qigong can be utilized as part of a stress management program, to increase longevity and heal stress-related illnesses.
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