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30 Benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi. Click, copy, download, save and share with family members and friends.
WHAT IS QIGONG and WHAT IS TAI CHI?
The word Qigong (Chi Kung) consists of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced “chee” and is usually translated to mean “the life force”or vital-energy that flows through all things in the universe. The second word, Gong, pronounced “gung,” means accomplishment, or skill that is achieved through disciplined effort or continued practice. Together, Qigong (Chi Kung) means cultivating energy, it is a system for healing and increasing energy or vitality.
“Stillness and action are relative, not absolute, principles. It is important to find a balance of yin and yang, not just in qigong, but in everyday life. In movement, seek stillness and rest. In rest, be mindful and attentive.”
Ken Cohen, The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing, pages 4-5
Tai Chi (Taiji Quan) is a style of qigong. It is slow and fluid-like. Other types of qigong exercise are for developing specific systems or parts of the body– nervous system, endocrine system, etc., but Taiji Quan is an exercise for the whole body, mind, and spirit with the goal of restoration and wholeness.
HOW DOES QIGONG HELP IMPROVE HEALTH?
The breathing, gentle movement, and meditation techniques of qigong help to cleanse, strengthen, and circulate the life energy (qi). Qigong practice leads to better health and vitality and a tranquil state of mind. In the past, qigong has also been called nei gong (inner work) and dao yin (guiding energy). Research studies show that qigong may be effective in the treatment of many illnesses including cancer and heart disease. Recent studies show that qigong delays the effects of aging and is useful with elderly and those experiencing symptoms of dementia.
Here is a listing of thirty benefits and positive effects of qigong and/or tai chi, as noted in a variety of reports, reviews, and research studies.
- Loosens Muscles
- Builds Power
- Strengthens Organs
- Slows Respiration
- Strengthens Nerves
- Builds Bone Density
- Prevents Joint Injury
- Strengthens Ligaments
- Destroys Free Radicals
- Increases Injury Recovery
- Decreases Stress
- Balances Emotions
- Improves Circulation
- Prevents Muscular Spasms
- Reduces Pain
- Lowers Heart Rate
- Normalizes EKG
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Improves Asthma
- Relieves Bronchitis
- Builds Immune System
- Relieves Migraines
- Decreases Stroke Risk
- Improves Skin Elasticity
- Improves Posture
- Improves Flexibility
- Increases Balance
- Improves Memory
- Aides in Digestion
- Improves Kidney Function
Research suggests that qigong and/or tai chi can be very helpful and effective in bringing balance, harmony, and healing to the body, mind, and spirit for people of all ages and cultures. More research is needed in controlled settings, over a longer periods of time, to better determine the effect that qigong has on health and wellness. Changes in diet and other alternative and orthodox medical treatments are also influential and work with qigong to bring about wellness. Always confide in your trusted health professional for advice.
Best wishes to you from your health and wellness friends at MBHA.
The Qigong Research Society
The Qigong Institude – Scientific Papers and Reviews
Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance 