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Qigong
(pronounced "chee gong”) translates literally as "energy work." A
component element of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is an ancient system of
movement, breathing techniques, and meditation, which is designed to develop
and improve the circulation of qi, or "life energy," around the body.
Qigong is believed to help both body and mind to function at an optimum level,
increasing vitality and encouraging self-healing mechanisms. Suitable for all
ages and levels of ability, it is practiced daily by more than 60 million people
in China and is fast growing in popularity in the West.
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| HISTORY
The
Chinese have always used breathing and movement as methods of healing, and
people living near the Yellow River 4,000 years ago used dance to ward off
arthritis.
These
ancient practices are said to have been based on the instinctive movements of
animals and they were used to promote balance, strength, and healthy organs.
Over the centuries the exercises developed into qigong. In 1955, the first
qigong clinic was founded in Heibei province, but during the Cultural
Revolution (1966-69) qigong was suppressed. The system is now reestablished
throughout China.
EVIDENCE & RESEARCH
Chinese
research since the 1980s claims that qigong can increase blood flow to the
brain and other vital organs and improve the functioning of body systems.
Unfortunately, few of these studies exist in translation and some are
incomplete.
MEDICAL OPINION
"Qi"
and "emitting external qi" sound improbable. Doctors will
accept these claims only when backed up by scientific theory and research.
Nonetheless, many doctors are impressed by their patients' experiences of
"healing" encounters.
CONSULTING
A PRACTITIONER
The
practitioner will teach you exercises and meditation techniques to stimulate qi
in the meridians and acupoints. You will learn to recognize sensations of qi,
and use your mind, or "intention," to guide it in ways that calm
your mind and enhance the functioning of your body.
Qigong
exercises can be performed in any order: you repeat each one six times to start
with, building up as you feel ready. The basic postures are easy to learn and
suitable for anyone, including the aged and infirm. Many can be performed
anywhere, even in a wheel-chair, or in bed. Clothing should be loose and
comfortable, and flat, flexible shoes are recommended rather than sneakers. In
addition to teaching exercises, master practitioners are said to be able to "emit
external qi" to heal others.
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