Qi Gong for Health

Ancient Movements for Health and Wellbeing

Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese physical exercise practice that combines the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with an aligned posture, focused, dynamic movements, awareness, intent and diaphragmatic breathing. Often described as a health preservation exercise, there are many types of Qi Gong, health, medical, passive (stillness) and active (moving). The common translation of Qi Gong is energy (qi/chi) achieved through effort/hard work over time (gong/kung).

Qi Gong is the modern name round the 1950's, the original practice is known as Dao-Yin. The practice dates back to around 5000 years ago and is practised in China as part of daily life. It is a preventative health system that promotes internal healing, health and longevity of mind, body and spirit. In TCM Qi Gong movements help open the meridian channels in the body for healthy Qi and blood flow, and balances yin yang in the body. Tai Chi is a much younger Qi Gong practice that combines Qi Gong movements with Chinese martial arts.

All movements can be adapted to suit the individual whatever their physical restrictions. Learning Qi gong takes time, it is a lifetime art, where the focus is on the enjoyment of the journey. With each week there is something new to experience and another layer of depth to bring into the mind and body. The Qi gong state of mind is hugely important, it’s a shift in mentality, learning to take positive and proactive responsibility of your own health and wellbeing, to yield to the ebb and flow of life without resistance. Read over our health and wellbeing resources for Qi gong.

Qi gong movements are accessible to anyone of any age, any fitness level or physical condition. Students can find improvement in; energy, balance, sleep, coordination, proprioception (body awareness), organ function, immune system levels, bone density, motor control, muscle strength, mobility, flexibility, oxygen intake, circulation, lymph function, emotions, hormone levels, sexual energy, digestion/absorption of nutrients/elimination, blood pressure, stress levels, alertness, clarity, relaxation, mental calm and much more.