Qigong is an ancient art of healing and self-healing which originated in China as early as four thousand years ago. Derived from their experience of struggling with nature, the ancient Chinese gradually realized that body movements, exclamations, and various ways of breathing could help readjust certain body functions. For instance, imitating animal movements such as climbing, looking about, and leaping was found to promote vital flow of Qi.

The ancient Chinese thought that Qi (Life Energy) was the essence of all things on earth. The whole universe is but movement or mutation of Qi, and so was it with the human body. The strength or intensity of the Qi, the upflow, downflow, outflow and inflow of Qi determined the health of the body.

The entire system of traditional Chinese medicine is founded on the concept of Qi. Chinese herbal medicine considers whether a given herb is Yin or Yang in its energy; whether it is a tonic for deficiencies in Qi or whether it clears and creates an outflow. In acupuncture, the points selected and methods used are all based on what effect they have on flow of Qi and how it benefits the body. Health problems are looked at in the context of the whole body. The emphasis is on the body regaining the free flow of Qi and regaining balance, and as a consequence all the organs and the whole body will function normally and be able to conquer illness and disease.

Qigong is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine. The two characters in “ Qigong” literally mean “ Qi training”. The gentle movements, easy postures and simple meditation techniques bring about a balanced energy flow, the end result is optimizing body and mind. Qigong is divided into two categories: movement Qigong and stillness Qigong and both should be practiced to ensure perfect health. Besides, Qigong is not a religion and people of any religion may practice it.

 Qigong now has become an activity joined by people around the world. In Beijing, a non-governmental organization called “ Chinese Culture Club” offers Qigong class to westerners. It invites Qigong masters to teach or give lectures. The following is some tips one master gives to western Qigong participants:

1.     Qigong is easy to learn.

You will find learning Qigong very simple. We are only allowing the body and mind to be themselves, we are just taking off the brakes and roadblocks. It is just a process of freeing oneself.

2.     “ Be as one with the Universe” (“ Tian Ren He Yi”)

Watching one practicing Qigong, it may look like a solitary soul doing movements deep in thought entirely by oneself. However, the person has to become a part of the world, of the planet and earth below and of the starry sky above, of the mountains and rivers far away. We blend our Qi with that of the rivers and oceans and the forests and mountains, and also draw upon their Qi to strengthen ours.

3.     Do it naturally.

Qigong is really not mastered through meticulously remembering the techniques or practicing the forms. By being dedicated and content at letting things happen rather than seeking a thrilling experience, the power of Qi will be revealed.

4.     Don’t try too hard.

Westerners are always in a great haste to achieve, after all this is how they are been trained all their lives. In Qigong, however, they must be prepared to be not worried about how long it will take, for natural progress is actually the fastest way. Haste may close the door on one, but of course one has to make an effort. The best way to think is: “As if one is trying and as if one is not trying”.

5.     Select one form of Qigong that is best suited to your situation.

It is said that there are 80,000 different kinds of Qigong in China. So many methods have been developed in hundreds remote mountains and valleys, all bring a particular benefit. Choose one that is easy and enjoyable and suits you both physically and mentally.