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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Qigong?
Qigong, often spelled "Chi Gong" or "Chi Kung", is an ancient Chinese healing art and a regimen of slow movement exercise with controlled breathing and focused concentration, that helps to heal and maintain the physical body. Qi (pronounced "chee") is the vital life energy which flows through all living things. The goal of Qigong is to circulate, build and balance Qi throughout the body to promote physical and mental well being. QiGong is a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medical Theory and it has been practiced for over 3000 years in China. It continues to be practiced today throughout Asia, and is beginning to gain popularity throughout the world. Qigong also shares many similar principles with Yoga, Tai Chi, and other forms of Eastern exercise and philosophy, which focus on building internal energetic strength and wholeness of body and mind.
Traditional Chinese medical theory contends that when imbalances in the flow of Qi occur, or when blockages of Qi through the meridian system occur, a person may suffer from illness, disease and pain. The goals of Qigong exercise are to promote self-healing, maintain good health, and to build internal strength, fitness, and balance. By learning and practicing a set of concentrative techniques, controlled breathing techniques, and specific slow movement exercises Qigong practitioners circulate, control, and cultivate Qi within themselves. This Qi then services the body and when property cultivated and stored, may be used in healing others. People who practice Qigong feel calmer, more energized, and in better control physically and mentally. They also look remarkably "well".
What is Taiji Quan?
Taiji Quan, sometimes called Taiji Boxing, is a complex system of 108 flowing, graceful movements performed in a relaxed, calm manner. It is a whole-body qigong practiced for health promotion, healing, meditation, and self-defense. While being a whole-body qigong, it is a very sophisticated internal martial art, with practices that include; forms (empty hand, two person, and weapons), standing meditation, sensitivity training, push hands (fixed step and moving), power training (fa chin), self-defense training (with technique, speed and accuracy in mind), many two person drills, and Taiji freestyle fighting.
What are some benefits of practicing Qigong and Taiji Quan
- Relieves stress
- Decreases chronic pain
- Improves posture
- Increases energy and stamina
- Promotes strength, flexibility and balance
- Decreases blood pressure
- Improves concentration and mental clarity
- Enhances immunity
- Improves sleep
- Stimulates natural healing abilities
- Detoxifies the body
Qigong research resource: Qigong Institute
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