“Qi is the fundamental life force that permeates all things. Qi connects and animates everything in the universe. When the flow of Qi is impaired, we have disease. When it flows easily, we have perfect health.”

 Qi gong is a 5,000 years old art that focuses on healing and strengthening the whole body. Through gentle stretches, turns and movements, it exercises parts of the body which are underutilized in daily life and other exercise regimens.

It has its origins in China where over the centuries, a diverse spectrum of Qi Gong forms developed in different segments of Chinese society. Traditionally, Qi Gong training has been esoteric and secretive, with knowledge passed from adept master to student in a lineage that maintains their own interpretation and methods.

In more recent years, the emphasis of Qi Gong practice has shifted away from traditional philosophy and increasingly focused on health benefits, medicine and martial arts.

Qi Gong practice has been applied to assist in the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions: hypertension, cancer, PTSD, Parkinson's Disease, balance training. Qi Gong  may also be used to supplement exercise regimens, in order to help the body heal after a strenuous work out. The focus on breathing and the slow movements aid in lowering the acidity of the blood, thus speeding the healing process.

Further Reading

• A Comprehensive Review of Qigong and Tai Chi- NCBI

• Health Benefits of Qigong- Cleveland Clinic

• Slow Down and Live Long- CNN

• Effect of Qigong on Quality of Life- BMC Public Health

• The Intriguing Health Benefits of Qigong-WSJ