Introduction
Qigong is a general term for Chinese meditations and exercises that are used to improve and maintain good health and promote longevity. Qi (pronounced chee) refers to the life force or energy within all living things. Gong refers to one’s ability or skill. Thus, Qigong means Qi ability. A person that practices Qigong develops the ability to work with and improve their own Qi, thus improving their health. With regular and daily Qigong practice, you will learn techniques to relax both your body and your mind. Qigong practice will enhance your ability to focus your mind and improve your concentration. Thus, Qigong is truly a holistic approach to natural living and training both your mind and body.
Qigong focuses on self-healing and prevention of illness. It includes movement forms (stances and exercises) and quiet forms (breathing and meditations). Qigong helps the practitioner to focus their mind and to be in the present moment, which relaxes both the mind and the body. It is difficult to relax the body if the mind is not relaxed and quiet. Qigong also helps to strengthen and increase the energy (Qi) flow in the body. As a result, Qigong provides a strong foundation that supports the body’s own ability to heal.
Qi
The “Qi” part of Qigong refers to the universal energy or life force that is present in all living organisms. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), disease occurs in the human body when Qi flow is disturbed (excess, deficient or blocked). The disruption of the Qi flow may manifest itself as symptoms (physical or emotional). Qi flows throughout the body in energy channels.
There are twelve major Jing channels (meridians) associated with the twelve organs (not necessarily the same as the physical organs of western anatomy) of the body. There are also eight Mai channels (vessels) that store and circulate Qi. Thus, improving Qi flow in the body literally means to improve the flow of Qi in the organs. The human body relies on the proper amount and flow of energy (Qi) for maintaining good health. Consistent practice of Qigong smooths out the Qi flow by opening energy channels in the body, increasing the stored energy in the body, and by circulating the energy through the channels. Thus, Qigong allows the practitioner to “Get Qi, Feel Qi, and Use Qi”.
Qi is depleted or blocked in many ways:
- Too much mental or physical stress.
- Poor eating and drinking habits.
- Too little or too much sleep.
- Extreme emotions (joy, sadness, anger).
- There are many, many other ways.
It’s important to eliminate or minimize these to have a successful Qigong practice and to be happy, healthy and in harmony.
Stress and tension restrict the flow of Qi in the body. When you feel stress or tension starting, take a 5-minute break and focus on your breathing. Breathe deeply into your abdomen. It will relax you and improve the Qi flow.
Qigong State
It is important to understand the concept of Qigong State for practicing Qigong (movement forms and quiet forms). Qigong State refers to putting your mind and body into the proper state for practicing Qigong. This means letting go of all thoughts about what has happened earlier in the day or what you want to do later. It means being present in the moment, the “here and now”. It means focusing your attention on relaxing both your mind and your body. It also means making sure that your spine is properly aligned while sitting or standing. Your feet should be flat on the floor unless you are sitting in the lotus position. Also, when in a Qigong state, you should put the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your teeth as much as possible.
Daily Practice
Daily consistent practice is an important key to improving your health through Qigong. Without practice, you cannot strengthen your body and open your energy channels. Without practice, you cannot quiet your mind and reduce stress. You should want and love to practice. If your practice becomes a chore, then you are likely doing it incorrectly. However, if life happens and you miss a practice, don’t beat yourself up. Don’t be hard on yourself. Learn from the circumstance and see if there is something you can do to reduce the likelihood that you will need to miss a practice in the future. Just do your best. But, always smile, forgive yourself, and just let it go.
Be grateful for your practices. Be grateful for your instructors. Be grateful for all of the Qigong masters that have paved the way for us to get the knowledge and instruction. Invite your friends and family to join you for your practices. Everyone benefits and it gives you an added incentive to practice consistently and you can support each other during times when you don’t feel like practicing.
Conclusion
As we have covered, the practice of Qigong means that we train to use Qi for self-healing. The practice of Qigong relaxes both the body and the mind. Thus, Qigong is a great way to reduce the effects of stress and improve your health. Qi flows through the energy channels in the body. The practice of Qigong helps us to “Get Qi, Feel Qi, and Use Qi”. Daily practice is important for constant improvement. Having gratitude for the practice and the Qigong masters help us to keep the momentum and desire to practice.
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