Recently several students have asked me about qigong (chi kung). So I will attempt to give you a basic explanation as it relates to the training we provide through Radiant Palm Tai Chi. Qigong is fundamentally a breathing exercise that makes use of various body positions that are held by the practitioner for several minutes at a time.
Holding these positions works the major muscles of the body, and those who practice regularly develop amazing muscle strength. What may not be known by novices is that qigong can be an excellent conduit for moving "qi" or life force energy throughout the body. Learning these techniques is best accomplished through a guided program of instruction.
Although most students find the discipline of qigong to be difficult at first, there are advantages to those students with mobility issues, such as balancing, stepping or kicking. Simply standing or sitting and holding prescribed forms while focusing the mind can be done by almost anyone. Qigong, in fact, gives many people an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of strengthing the body and sharpening the mind they would otherwise not have through Tai Chi or other dynamic physical exercises.
So if you have limited mobility, why not try qigong? If you learn to practice this amazing exercise, you will realize more muscle strength, a sharper mind, and be more relaxed. What more can you ask for?
Namaste
Comments