Postures in Qigong
Qigong exercises involve a number of different movements, performed in a number of different postures. These postures can be categorized as the following:
Lying Down
Some Qigong exercises can be performed while lying down. The practitioner may be lying on their back, with their arms straight by their sides and legs straight. A pillow can be placed under the head, but it should not be too high.
Another posture one can assume is lying down on one’s side. The body should be straight, with the legs bent slightly. The arm on the body can rest along the hip, while the other lower hand can be placed on the pillow, the palm facing up.
Sitting
There are three types of sitting postures the practitioner can be in when performing Qigong.
The first posture is on a chair, with feet firmly on the ground and the back straight.
The second is on the floor, with the legs naturally crossed and both feet underneath the legs. The back should be straight and the hands placed in front, just above the pubic area.
The third posture while sitting is the same as the second, except with one foot on the opposite leg’s thigh. The hands should be placed, relaxed, on the knees.
Standing Up
The posture to maintain when standing up and performing Qigong is to have the back straight, shoulders relaxed, with a focus on the lower abdomen. Feet should be placed no more than shoulder width apart, and the legs slightly bent.
Walking
Begin walking slowly and relaxed with the left foot, maintaining the standing up posture. Let the arms sway naturally with each stride.
More information on the concept of Qi.