Qigong
The Basics

Qigong If you are someone who is trying to be healthy inside and out, there is a good chance that you will run into information about the Chinese practice of qigong.

Pronounced chi gung, this type of therapy that is often referred to as “meditation in motion” actually covers a wide variety of different techniques and philosophies.

This meditation therapy has become a world-wide phenomenon, and there is a good chance that you will find that it is available in your area in one way, shape or form.

If you are curious about this ancient practice and what good it can bring to a modern life, take a look at some basic information about this practice.

When thinking about qigong, you'll find that “qi” is a term that refers to breath in Chinese, but the actual meaning goes much further.
You'll find that “qi” has strong connotations of the energy that courses through our bodies; according to traditional Chinese medicine, qi flows through our bodies just like blood does, and when these lines of energy get congested or tangled up, you'll find that they can do a great deal of harm.
The “gong” part of qigong refers to work, or the practicing of a martial art. There is a great deal of good when it comes the qi in your body is disciplined and “works” in the way it is meant to do, and this is what the practice of qigong is meant to help you with.

Benefits of Qigong

Essentially, qigong is a combination of slow, thoughtful movements that is accompanied by regulated breathing and designed to be therapeutic and beneficial to the practitioner.
While it is most often used for health maintenance and to create a very real sense of well-being, you'll find that it has some excellent benefits when it comes to treating some chronic disorders.
Many people, when they practice qigong, feel an increase in their control over their body and their life, leaving them feeling empowered and rejuvenated after a session.

While some people feel that qigong is an experience that is similar to other forms of exercise and feel that it has its main benefit in terms of stress relief and movement, other people feel that there is a very real metaphysical aspect to this exercise.
For people who feel that there is a spiritual component, qigong can be become a way where they get in touch with their own bodies, the meditation freeing them from their normal concerns.

Qigong is a practice that is aimed at bettering the health of its participants on a holistic level; for people who believe in the qualities espoused in this practice, it is clear that it takes more than proper nutrition and exercise to be healthy.
It is interesting to note that qigong, unlike other exercise, is performed in a slow and measured fashion; the point is not to rush through it but to feel every aspect of this exercise and to allow it to enrich your body and your mind.

Qigong is practiced by millions of people around the world, whether it is performed as a series of exercises or as a daily spiritual experience.
In many ways, with the whole body movements and the concentration that is used, this practice is one that is still associated with the martial arts and the meditations that have been practiced by Daoist and Buddhist monks and secular martial artists.
This is a powerful experience and that many people find is both physically and mentally satisfying.

Compared to martial arts, with which this practice shares a long history, qigong is a very gentle experience.
There is no touching between people participating, unless there is an instructor who is helping you correct your stance.
You will find that your body will move through a series of slow, graceful postures, while your breathing is moderated, helping you both concentrate and ground yourself.
For people who spend their time constantly multitasking, this can be a novel experience as well as an enlightening one!

If you are in a place where you are considering the benefits that qigong can bring you, you'll find that there are many options open to you.
More gyms, spas and resorts and bringing this practice in, and you'll also find that there are many DVDs and videos that can show you the basics, though many people find that they get more out of personal instruction.
If you want to see what health effects qigong can bring to your life, find out how to get involved today!