Balanced Life-Energy
What Is Qigong
The word Qigong (Chi Kung) is made up 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 cultivated through steady practice. Together, Qigong (Chi Kung) means cultivating energy, it is a system practiced for health maintenance, healing and increasing vitality.
Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions.
Qigong practices can be classified as martial, medical, or spiritual. All styles have three things in common: they all involve a posture, (whether moving or stationary), breathing techniques, and mental focus. Some practices increase the Qi; others circulate it, use it to cleanse and heal the body, store it, or emit Qi to help heal others. Practices vary from the soft internal styles to the external, vigorous styles. However, the slow gentle movements of most Qigong forms can be easily adapted, even for the physically challenged and can be practiced by all age groups.
Qigong is a highly effective health care practice. Many health care professionals recommend Qigong as an important form of alternative complementary medicine.
Qigong creates an awareness of and influences dimensions of our being that are not part of traditional exercise programs. Most exercises do not involve the meridian system used in acupuncture nor do they emphasize the importance of adding mind intent and breathing techniques to physical movements. When these dimensions are added, the benefits of exercise increase exponentially.
The gentle, rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.
Those who maintain a consistent practice of Qigong find that it helps one regain a youthful vitality, maintain health even into old age and helps speed recovery from illness. Western scientific research confirms that Qigong reduces hypertension and the incidence of falling in the aged population. One of the more important long-term effects is that Qigong reestablishes the body/mind/soul connection.
People do Qigong to maintain health, heal their bodies, calm their minds, and reconnect with their spirit.
When these three aspects of our being are integrated, it encourages a positive outlook on life and helps eliminate harmful attitudes and behaviors. It also creates a balanced life style, which brings greater harmony, stability, and enjoyment
Qigong's great appeal is that everyone can benefit, regardless of ability, age, belief system or life circumstances.
Anyone can enrich their lives by adding Qigong to their daily routine. Children learning to channel their energy and develop increased concentration; office workers learning Qigong to reduce stress; seniors participating in gentle movements to enhance balance and their quality of life; caregivers embracing a practice to develop their ability to help others, anyone.
When beginners ask, "What is the most important aspect of practicing Qigong?" The answer is always..."just do it
With each and every practice, I improve myself. When I improve myself, I aid in the improvement of all humanity.
Top 9 reasons to Practice Qigong
1.) Qigong harnesses the power of the True Source and helps spiritual growth, regardless of faith or beliefs.
2.) Qigong improves the motion of blood, warms the blood and enhances whole body circulation.
3.) Qigong stimulates the appetite, assimilation of nutrients, and digestive/elimination.
4.) Qigong accelerates metabolism, weight loss, and decreases the need for sleep.
5.) Qigong bolsters your immune system by reducing Cortisol, a known inhibitor of cytokine production.
6.) Qigong develops dexterity, reflexes, and prevents osteoporosis in clinical studies.
7.) Qigong opens arteries allowing greater brain-based microcirculation to prevent Alzheimer's disease.
8.) Qigong enhances mental acculity, focus, and concentration. The Qi draws the focus and trains the mind.
9.) Qigong helps us to calm down, relax and become more peaceful
