What is Qigong

Qigong (also spelled Chi Kung) is a powerful system of healing and energy medicine from China. It is the art and science of using breathing techniques, gentle movement, and meditation to cleanse, strengthen, and circulate the life energy (qi). The documented history of Qigong goes back approximately 2,500 years. However Chinese archaeologists and historians have found references to qigong-like techniques at least five thousand years old.

What is qi (chi)?

We live in a field of qi (chi), "vital breath" or "life energy." Yet, like a fish in water or a bird in flight, we are unaware of the medium that supports us. Qigong means "working with the qi/cultivating energy" It is the ancient Chinese art and science of becoming aware of this life energy and learning how to control its flow through a precise choreography of posture, movement, respiratory technique, and meditation. Like biofeedback, qigong teaches psychophysiological self-regulation; the student becomes aware of bodily functions conventionally considered involuntary-- blood pressure, respiratory rate, even the flow of blood and nutrients to internal organs-- and learns to restore a healthier balance.

‍

Who can benefit?

Qigong techniques are suitable for men and women, young and old, athletes and sedentary, and for the disabled. Because qigong includes both dynamic and gentle techniques that can be practiced from standing, seated, or supine postures, it is suitable for young and old. Practices can be tailored to individual needs making it an ideal aid to recovery from illness or injury. Qigong is a form of complementary medicine. It works well with other forms of therapy and should never be used as a substitute for necessary treatment by a doctor.

Qigong practice can lead to better health, greater self awareness, a stronger sense of vitality and a tranquil state of mind. Qigong has been rigorously tested in controlled scientific experiments and clinical trials and is often used as an adjunct to conventional allopathic medical treatment. Qigong is practiced by more than 80 million Chinese people and by hundreds of thousands of people around the world.

Recommended reading – Chris Jarmey’s The Theory and Practice of Taiji Qigong Shibashe 1, Ken Cohen’s The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing. Both available from Amazon Meditation link to Reginald Ray www.shambhala.com/theawakeningbody

Some links to explore for further study -  Shibashe 1 with Sifu Wing Cheung   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAwbJ9MO91I  Website is www.taichi18.com Seated Shibashe 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2SscwGK4oE

Nick Neter For more information www.eastbourneshiatsu.co.uk  January  2020.