What is Qigong?

Qigong (pronounced chee-gung) may have an unfamiliar name, but it’s a highly practical, time-tested exercise system used for millennia. Its aim is to support vitality, build physical resilience and maintain optimum physical, mental and emotional wellbeing – a kind of medical kung fu or moving meditation similar to Tai Chi that encourages a deep mind-body connection.

The main benefits include:

• cultivating and sustaining steady energy levels

• mindfulness through movement – strengthening your mind-body connection

• deep relaxation to soothe the physiological stress response

• increasing joint range of motion and a releasing muscular tension through gentle articulation, stretching and mobilisation (including the shoulders, hips, spine and the often overlooked joints like the elbows, shoulder blades, wrists and ankles)

• encouraging a gentle, internal awareness of the body’s natural rhythms and alignment

• smoothing the breath and linking it with physical movement

• improving structural balance, coordination and proprioception

• helping to clear the physical sensation of sluggishness or fatigue

Therefore, it’s an ideal practice for those navigating:

• general joint stiffness or tension

• feelings of fatigue or sluggishness

• an overactive, busy mind that struggles to settle

• postural or emotional tension brought on by stress

There are many different styles of qigong; many are based on those which are several thousand years old and rather like the famous martial arts systems which have stood the test of time, they have been passed down through generations within family lineages and the medical sphere in the Far East.

Almost all forms are practiced in a standing posture (although many can be practiced seated for those unable to stand) and are normally a combination of movement sets involving things such as squatting, side-to-side weight transference, turning of the waist and circular arm and shoulder movements.

The main difference between qigong and something like aerobics is the specific attention paid to the interior of the body as well as the external muscle groups. The aim is to cultivate awareness and mindfulness of things such as the breath, felt sensations in the body, posture, joints and emotions to improve health and wellbeing.

In true Chinese paradoxical style these mindful exercises are energising yet calming, strengthening yet relaxing, invigorating yet low impact.

For more detailed information on the benefits of individual sets, please visit the styles taught page.