Qi Gong is an exercise and meditation practice developed in China. Applying Eastern philosophies of exercise, breathing and meditation, Qi Gong aims to focus the mind as well as exercise the body. The practice has been around for thousands of years and various styles of Qi Gong have come about during this extensive period.
How Qi Gong started
The practice of Qi Gong was developed in China by Taoist monks around 3,000 years ago. The meditative nature of the monks study required long periods where they remained seated. To alleviate the stresses on the body and help to restore a physical balance, the practice of Qi Gong was developed. Through the practice of Qi Gong, the goal was to maintain mental and physical balance and well being. The movements and breathing exercises are specifically designed to restore the flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body.
How Qi Gong works
The practice of Qi Gong starts with breathing exercises to help you relax and prepare your mind and body. Combining meditation and exercise, a series of steady movements are then done in progression to ease and exercise the muscles. There are a number of variations of Qi Gong, one of the better known being the practice of the 18 sets of movements practiced in Tai Chi. The focus of the exercises is to control the muscles and improve the breathing to achieve a semi-meditative state.
Natural Health Benefits of Qi Gong
The practice of meditation and exercise is a good way to improve your sense of wellbeing. You’ll find that you feel physically stronger from the exercise, as well as mentally rejuvenated from the breathing and meditation exercises. By combining these two elements, the mental and physical state can be improved upon and the positive flow of Qi or energy is balanced throughout the body.
Among the benefits of Qi Gong are the following:
• Reduced levels of stress
• An increased sense of wellbeing
• Balanced mental and physical health
• A more focussed, sharper mind
• Help ward off respiratory problems
• Helping suffers of chronic illness
Practicing Qi Gong
Qi Gong is a useful form of exercise as it can be done under self-direction at home or in a group, with no need to buy expensive equipment. This ancient discipline has been around since before recorded time and the evolution and refinement of this practice have allowed it to be used easily and simply in a great number of settings. Qi Gong can be practiced by people of all ages. It is a health option for children and the elderly, as the movements are based upon individual strength.
The benefits of mind and body balance have become increasingly important in Western medicine and culture. Much can be learned from Eastern traditions where this balance has been a central focus for thousands of years. Qi Gong is an excellent starting point if you would like to improve your health and experience the natural benefits of understanding the interaction of breathing, meditation and exercise.
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