Definition:
Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese practice of cultivating the flow of energy throughout the body and exchanging energy with the universe, usually through gentle exercise and meditation. There is evidence that this practice may go back five thousand years. The movements are slow, graceful and gentle. By practicing these movements, the body can increase strength, balance and flexibility. At the same time, mental focus and concentration are improved, producing a sense of health and well being.
"Qi Gong" is two words – "qi" (pronounced "chee") and "gong" (pronounced "gung"). Qi is translated as vital energy, the life force, air, breath, or life-essence. Gong is translated as art, discipline, effort, work, or labor. So Qi Gong can be called energy work. In China it is called the method to increase health and prolong life.
Chinese Medicine works with the concept of qi. If the qi in your body is flowing well, you are said to be in good health. If your qi is weak, blocked or stagnant, you can experience dis-ease, illness. Practicing Qi Gong can help your qi flow more freely and smoothly.
There are countless styles of Qi Gong, because families and other groups have passed it down through the generations and have created their own forms. T’ai Chi is a form of Qi Gong that was developed as a martial art, that is, to prepare oneself to defend or attack. It is often practiced in slow motion as a form of meditation and exercise, like Qi Gong.
Qi Gong is as safe as, or even safer than any other exercises, with good guidance and direction. Qi Gong as exercise, which involves mind focus, breathing techniques and body movements can bring you a peaceful mind and relaxed body.