About Qigong
Qigong is a wholistic system of self-healing, meditation and exercise, an ancient, evolving practice that includes healing postures, movement and breathing techniques. The Chinese have used qigong successfully for over 5000 years.
Qigong techniques are divided into two general categories: dynamic (active) or tranquil (passive) qigong. In tranquil qigong the entire body is still. The qi is controlled by mental concentration, visualization, and precise methods of breathing. Dynamic qigong includes movements, externally there is movement, but internally, the mind is quiet, peaceful, and at rest. To put it simply, dynamic qigong is exercise, and tranquil qigong is meditation.
The exercises of qigong focus the mind and body on the movement of qi (energy) within and around our bodies. Qi is meant to move freely throughout the meridians (paths of energy) and to every cell, bringing the self into balance. Good health is a result of a free-flowing, well-balanced qi (energy) system, while sickness, experience of pain, and depression is the result of the qi blockage or unbalanced energy in the body.
External qigong therapy is an ancient Chinese method of healing touch and a branch of medical qigong. A qigong practitioner places his or her hands on or near a client’s body, assesses the health of the client’s qi and then transmits healing qi.
In learning to recognize, utilize, circulate, and direct the internal energy of the human body, an individual can also connect with the energy of the universe and of the earth, and learn to interact with all of nature as a whole. Through use of certain energies and techniques, qigong can relieve pain, strengthen the body’s constitution, improve intelligence, and prolong life.
The conscious awareness of the movement of qi can be like a vacation in the midst of our busy lives, providing a visit into the land of ourselves and balancing us with the environment.
