Qi Gong

What is it?

Qi Gong originated as many as 4000 years ago as a dance form in the Tao Tang Tribes of China. Heavy rains and flooding caused an overall gloominess. People suffered from rigid joints. Dancing lifted their spirits. People began to realize that movement, breathing and making sounds d stimulated bodily functions. Dancing and imitating animal movements and sounds for better Qi or energy flow in the body became Qi Gong. Qi Gong is pronounced “Chi Kung.” Qi, means energy and Gong, means skill or self-discipline. A healing art form, Qi Gong combines meditation and movement. Meditation and visualizations develop a stronger body-mind connection that assist in the healing of the body and the whole person. QiGong practice balances the flow of the passive “yin” and active “yang” energies in our bodies. QiGong basically uses the mind to relax the body, releasing blocks, allowing energy and therefore, wellness to flow.

Other forms of QiGong are used for strength, balance and mastering internal energy. QiGong training is often used as basic training for all other martial arts.

What can I expect?

QiGong is taught in small group, classes or individually. You can also use books or videos to learn on your own. The practice includes meditation, healing postures, self-massage, breathing and movements. You will combine external movements with internal silence and peacefulness. Resting your mind and relaxing your body.

What are the reported benefits?

QiGong has been associated with strengthening the immune system, reducing the effects of stress, and relieving chronic fatigue and pain. Joint and muscle pain is reliably alleviated with the regular practice. Specifically QiGong has also been known to provide relief from allergies, arthritis, asthma, insomnia, excessive weight, high blood pressure, heart disease and poor digestion. There have even been many reports of QiGong healing disease such as cancer, severe physical disabilities, and cerebral palsy.

How much does it cost?

You can find free introductory classes through some organizations. Classes may cost between $10 per class to $100 or more for monthly fees covering weekly to unlimited classes per month.

Many books and videos have become available to learn Qi Gong, as well.

What kind of training is required?

Qi Gong teachers come from a wide range of experience from novice to expert. It is important to ask your instructor about coursework and experience. Qi Gong taught by an experienced teacher will be beneficial even if a true Master is not available.

A true Qi Gong Master has dedicated his life to study, practice, and moral character. There are very few Qi Gong Masters. In China , there are strict criteria for teaching as a Master including 12 years of experience, proven healing such as of cancer determined by medical testing, published articles and recognition by boards.

Videos and books done by true Qi Gong masters are widely available and recommended.

Recommended Reading

The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing

The Way of Energy

More Resources

World Qi Gong Federation

National Qi Gong Association

www.qi.org

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