Although the practice of personal health care through breath and energy dates back to pre-historic China, the term qigong, pronounced "chee gong," was coined in the middle of the 20th century. The premise of a qigong practice is the art of identifying and cultivating the flow of chi -- or energy -- in the body and directing that energy to improve health. There are many styles of qigong and no right way to do it, according to The Qigong Institute. Masters remind practitioners that qigong is a journey, not a destination.
Step 1
Locate a qigong teacher and request permission to observe a class or two. Buy or rent a video and read at least one book on the subject to help determine which style best matches your objectives, recommends the Qigong Institute.
Step 2
Build a solid foundation for a personal qigong practice by learning and practicing basic breathing and relaxation exercises. Practice slow, deep breaths followed by an even slower exhale throughout the day to encourage the relaxation response.
Step 3
Practice the basic qigong stances. The horse stance and bow stance help build stamina, and the tai chi walk improves balance and posture.
Step 4
Learn and study the 24 rules for a qigong practice. Control of the mental and emotional processes that interact with the flow of chi come with practice and are more easily achieved when the physical body and surrounding environment is properly managed, according to Yang, Jwing-Ming on Acupuncture.com.
Step 5
Avoid setting long-term goals. A successful qigong practice depends on the ability to enjoy the activity in the present without concerns about progress or performance. Strive for a consistent -- but nondemanding -- routine, and patience and confidence will naturally follow.
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