The Benefits of Qigong
Qigong is a meditative technique that involves the cultivation of life energy, or life force, called “qi”. Also known as chi or ki (in Korean and Japanese), Qigong means breath work or skill. It has been practiced for thousands of years. It is unknown how it was developed or invented, but has appeared in several historical texts detailing medical practices in China and other parts of the world (mainly in East Asia).
Qigong is believed to have originated in China, and is an essential aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Breathing is combined with particular movements and postures that facilitate the flow of qi in one’s body. It is typically done on a daily basis, and is performed in conjunction with the martial arts. These martial arts include Tai Chi Chuan, the various styles of southern Kung Fu, Hap Ki Do, and Aikido. It is regularly performed by Buddhist monks.
There are various types of movements, techniques and postures, and what an individual learns will depend on the teacher, school, and the objective.
Benefits of Qigong
As there is no scientific evidence that proves performing qigong is beneficial to one’s health, there are many skeptics of this therapeutic technique. However, millions, and perhaps even billions, of people around the world still practice qigong.
It is an effective technique to reduce stress, maintain balance and a satisfactory standard of fitness, improve the joints, and prevent disease and illness. I can also rid the body of toxins naturally. However, performing it incorrectly can actually adversely affect the practitioner and result in the reverse occurring; therefore it is vital that one follow the accurate method of technique.