Qigong is one of the pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It seeks to maintain life energy through movements and conscious breathing.
Qigong - what is it?
Qigong is a Far Eastern movement therapy - one of the pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). According to Qigong, physical and mental complaints are since the flow of life energy Qi is blocked. According to the doctrine, Qi flows along the so-called meridians, which are specific body lines. With movements, conscious breathing, and posture, one tries to maintain the Qi, regenerate it, and direct it to the right places in the body. This should bring body and mind into balance, help to reduce inner tensions and thus alleviate diseases.
Qigong and also the related movement from Tai Chi have practiced already 2,500 years ago in China and belong in the far east still today to the national health promotion. But also in this country Qigong, Tai Chi and Co. enjoy ever larger popularity and are offered apart from in people's high schools meanwhile just as frequently as in form of courses in Fitness studios.
Which methods are used in Qigong?
Qigong is characterized by slow, gentle, flowing movements while standing, sitting, or lying down. They have names like "Standing like a tree" or "Parting the clouds". There are many different styles, such as the meditative still qigong (Jinggong) or the dynamic Shaolin qigong.
For which ailments is Qigong useful?
The meditative form of movement is not used as the sole remedy but as a complementary therapy. It has proven useful for the following complaints, for example:
- Back pain
- Tension
- high blood pressure
- arthritis
- osteoporosis
- Nervousness
- Stress
- Anxiety
How well is Qigong scientifically proven?
There is no scientifically verifiable basis for the existence of Qi. Nevertheless, Qigong unfolds a positive health effect through concentration, breathing, and movement. Thus, scientific studies have shown an effect on high blood pressure and pain conditions.
Directions of Qigong
In the course of the millennia, many different directions have developed - about 100 are recognized in the research institute for Qigong in Beijing. Basically, the movement teaching may only be recognized as such if at least two of the following seven set components are combined in it:
- Relaxation
- calmness
- naturalness
- Movement
- breathing
- mental image
- tone
Incidentally, among the many qigong methods are the so-called internal martial arts of Taijiquan, Bagazhang, and Xingyiquan, in which opponents are to be defeated by a combination of speed, physical strength, and skill.
What are the limitations?
Qigong exercises are usually easy to learn and do not require special agility or strength. Therefore, Qigong is also suitable for pregnant women, the elderly, and the sick. For it to actually have a health benefit, the exercises should be done daily if possible.
For whom is Qigong generally suitable?
Qigong is suitable for everyone who is looking for inner balance and relaxation and has the desire and time to practice regularly.
Who pays for the treatment?
Probably the most common way to learn the meditative form of movement is through courses at the adult education center or in a fitness studio. Some public health insurances contribute to the costs of a Qigong course if certain criteria are fulfilled
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