Qi Gong
Qi Gong (pronounced “chee gong”) is a form of movement and meditative therapy that is based on principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with practice going back over 2,000 years.
Through instruction, an individual is guided in the use of:
- certain movements
- breathing techniques
- mind-body practices
These are considered to be helpful for general wellness and may improve several health conditions.
A Focus on Key Internal Organs
The practice of these movements and exercises, as well as body-centered meditation, allows an individual to focus on the nourishment and functioning of the key internal organs, such as the:
- heart
- lungs
- liver
- kidneys
Benefits of Qi Gong
From the standpoint of TCM, health is promoted by an unobstructed flow of energy — or Qi — through the organs of the body.
Therapeutic approaches, such as acupuncture, and Qi Gong seek to restore balance through the system and facilitate this energy flow.
From a western medicine perspective, Qi Gong — together with Tai Chi Chuan (a slow martial art form) — has been shown to be helpful in improving:
- mood
- anxiety
- pain
- balance and mobility
- immune functioning
- glucose control in diabetes
- cardiovascular and respiratory capacity