By Dr. Mark Wiley

I have received a good deal of emails asking me to explain the mechanism of qigong in more detail. In this articles, then, I hope to answer these questions by not only providing a definition of this ancient break-skill health practice, but also its various forms and benefits.

A Practical Definition
Qigong refers to specific health exercises combining Buddhist and Taoist elements. Such exercises are actually techniques for regulating the body, the mind and the breath. They involve visualization, movement, posture and self-massage to effect changes in health. More specifically, qigong is the art of exercising the “three treasures”: jing (human essence), qi (vital energy) and shen (spirit).

The nucleus of qigong is the development of consciousness and vital energy. The goal of qigong, therefore, is to circulate, build and balance qi throughout the body to promote physical and mental well-being. As qigong is a cornerstone of the traditional Chinese medical model it continues to be practiced by thousands throughout much of Asia today, and indeed around the world.

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Qigong is a holistic therapy that exercises the body and mind and increases consciousness. Regular practice of qigong exercises aids in regulating the functions of the central nervous system. Along with exercising and controlling one’s mind and body, qigong influences one’s physical state in general, while improving one’s pathological condition in particular. Concurrently, the practice of qigong emits latent energy within the human body, enabling the practitioner to use them to their fullest potential. The Chinese believe that qigong practice increases the body’s ability to adapt to and defend against the natural/physical environment in which we live.

Specifically, the practice of qigong exercises combines the practice of xing (body shapes or postures), yi (intention or concentration) and qi (vital energy). The Chinese refer to xing, yi, and qi as the “three regulations.” Controlling the three regulations through various qigong practices is said to regulate the body’s constitution, consciousness and respiration, respectively. Such regulations are the main principle of the practice of qigong and the primary constituents to the maintenance of good health.

There are Many Forms of Qigong
The variety of qigong forms or methods can be divided into Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian practices. Within these categories, there are three primary applications of qigong.

In times past, qigong was used in conjunction with various Chinese martial arts. The primary use of qigong today is to improve one’s health, thus extending life. This is known as medical or healing qigong, of which there are three subdivisions:

• Applied clinical therapy, whereby a Chinese doctor would emit (project) his own qi into a patient’s body to effect a cure;

 

• Self-regulating exercises, whereby a person would choose a qigong program and practice the exercises over a period of at least 100 days to improve his or her own health;

 

• A combination of clinical qigong treatments from a doctor and an individual’s personal self-regulating qigong training program. Within the self-practice method, exercises are done in any combination of three ways: static postures, slow movements, meditation and breathing exercises.

The Benefits of Qigong
There are virtually innumerable ways in which one can benefit from the practice of qigong. A deep and full rest at night is a fine condition that can be attained with the practice of qigong. Because of this practice, a person will find they need less sleep than usual. He or she will awaken a new person, replenished and ready to face a new day.

After qigong practice, one will feel stronger and more energetic and the mind will feel clear and tranquil. After prolonged training, one will feel light yet strong.

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The practice of qigong improves blood circulation and enriches the blood with more red blood cells. This increases the supply of oxygen to the tissues and promotes healthier tissues and organs. The greater supply of oxygen enables the heart to pump slower, while still providing enough oxygen to the body. Imbalances such as high blood pressure and a rapid heart beat are made normal with prolonged, proper practice of qigong.

Qigong serves the whole body rather than one specific area, although this is also possible through specific exercises. Qigong is therefore a way of attaining good health and peace of mind. As it calls on no external means, introduces nothing and depends only on the body to create antibodies, qigong is among the most natural and direct methods of wellness and revitalization.