Qigong

Qigong is also called chi kung and chi gung. It is a form of Chinese exercise that is composed of different breathing practices, body movements, and meditation to improve qi energy flow and prevent energy stagnation. It helps connect mind, body, and soul, improving your overall health.

Qigong is pronounced as chee-gong and its literal meaning is “to work with qi.”

What are the benefits of qigong?

Prevent chronic diseases

Qigong is known to stimulate blood flow, strengthen muscles, and decrease stress, which collectively reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Several studies demonstrate that qigong can reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

Controlled breathing practices performed in qigong tell your body that you are safe, which activates your rest and digest system (parasympathetic system). Additionally, it incorporates calm movements and meditation. This in turn, reduces mental stress, and improves anxiety and depression symptoms.

Improve balance and muscle strength

Qigong uses slow movements to improve awareness of body posture. When performed correctly, it can improve your muscle flexibility and body balance. In a recent study, nearly one hundred elders practiced qigong for around 3 months. By the end of the research, their balance and walking scores were significantly improved.

Regulate your thoughts and improve focus

Today’s fast-paced lifestyle and technology have greatly reduced the power of concentration and focus in men. There are many things going on in mind at the same time, resulting in confusion. Qigong uses meditation which can help you control your racing thoughts, organize your mind, and promote mindfulness.

Help your immune system

Your immune system is responsible for protection against disease-causing microorganisms. Daily stressors and other factors can weaken it and diminish its performance. If you are concerned about your body’s natural defence system, making qigong a part of your lifestyle may boost your immunity in different ways. Studies show that qigong encourages the production of immune cells, improving overall immune function.

What should I expect from a qigong session?

Your chi kung practitioner begins by asking you basic health-related questions. They will gather information to determine which exercises are the best for you.

During the actual chi kung session, the practitioner will show you different movements and meditation techniques and teach you how to perform them correctly. You can practice these exercises in a group or individually. By the end of your chi kung session, you will be more aware of your surroundings and feel much more relaxed.

Many chi kung instructors offer online classes as well. You can opt for either online or virtual classes according to your needs. The duration of a session varies depending on your particular needs. It generally lasts for up to 45 minutes.

Summary

Qigong incorporates easy-to-do exercises, which makes it good practice for people of all ages. It does not increase heart rate, so do not consider it a cardiovascular exercise. The main role of qigong is to improve energy flow, stimulate immunity, improve circulation and strengthen muscles. You can perform it both indoors and outdoors based on what you find more feasible.

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