Qi (pronounced “chee”) is energy or life force. Gong is any activity that takes time and practice. So Qigong is the practice of Energy work, which takes time and practice. Qigong combines movement, breathing, and meditation to cultivate and balance the body’s energy. There are more than 1000 types of qigong.
All Qigongs can be divided into three basic types.
1. Moving qigong. Slow, flowing movements that help to cultivate and balance qi.
2. Standing qigong also called Zhan Zhuang, in which the practitioner holds a particular position for quiet some time.
3. Neigong also called meditative practices.
Benefits of Qigong
Regular practice of qigong can bring numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Enhanced immune function
- Improved balance and coordination
- Reduced chronic pain and inflammation
- Improved cognitive function
- Better sleep quality
- Increased energy and vitality