Qigong (also called Chi Kung) has been practised in China for thousands of years.
- It is mentioned in the I Ching or Book of Changes, and the Classic on Internal Medicine written by the Yellow Emperor (2697-2597BC).
- Its purpose is to improve the flow of Qi (also known as Chi or Ki), or vital energy.
- In traditional Chinese medicine, if the flow of Qi is obstructed, the bones ligaments and muscles contract, leading to stiffness and ill-health.
- Most forms of Qigong involve gentle movement to encourage the opening of joints and the softening of tensions held in both body and mind.
- Exercises are accompanied by relaxed rhythmic breathing and a calm focused mind to promote a sense of stillness within movement.
- As we develop our practice, this overflows into everything we do.
- Life becomes less stressful as we begin to experience it from a point of restful stillness.
- When mind and body are one, we achieve a state of harmony.
- As we become more focused, our vital energy is not wasted - and it is renewable!
Life is movement. The more life there is, the more flexibility there is. The more fluid you are, the more you are alive. – Arnaud Desjardins