Qigong (pronounced chee gong) is a Chinese system of physical training, philosophy, and preventive and therapeutic health care. Qi (or chi) means air, breath of life or vital essence. Gong means work, self-discipline, achievement ormastery. This art combines aerobic conditioning, isometrics, isotonics, meditation, and relaxation. Qigong is a discipline whose practice allows us to gain control over the life force that courses throughout our bodies. There are more than 3,000varieties of qigong, and five major qigong traditions: the Taoist, Buddhist, Confucian, martial arts, and medical. Qigong is thus a soft form of a related set of disciplines that includes Taiji (Tai Chi Quan) and the hard form of Kung Fu.
Like the other forms, medical qigong is "the cultivation and deliberate control of a higher form of vital energy". It is also, as Yan Xin defines it, "an ancient philosophical system of harmonious integration of the human body with the universe." As a radical denial of the human species' separation from nature, qigong challenges the foundations of modern Western biomedical thought.
Medical qigong involves breathing exercises combined with meditation. The breathing exercises induce help induce the state of meditation, and vice versa. One is aware of what is going on, but not too aware, fully relaxed but not in a trance.
In a qigong state, cares and troubles wash away. Replacing them are positive images, increased confidence, and enhanced spirit. Eventually, there will be no distractions, depressing thoughts or worries. Through meditation one gains feelings ofhappiness. This in turn stimulates circulation of blood and qi, or life force. If one is ill, over time the body's functions are thus able to return to normal. If one is not ill, the existing sense of wellness and well-being increases. People of all ages
can learn to practice qigong, and so develop and maintain internal vigour and good health.
The Chinese have found qigong an effective way to treat substance abuse and obesity. This gentle art improves delivery of oxygen to the body's cells, reduces stress and improves bowel functioning. Chinese doctors have applied qigong in hospitals and clinics to treat individuals suffering from a variety of ailments. These include allergies, arthritis, asthma, bowel problems, constipation, diabetes, gastritis, gout, headaches, heart disease and hypertension. The list goes on: chronic kidney disease, liver disease, lower back pain, Meniere's disease, myopia, obesity, neurasthenia, paralysis induced by external injury, retinopathy (deterioration of the back of the eye), rheumatism, sciatic neuralgia, sleeplessness, stress, torticollis, ulcers, and peripheral vascular disease. Qigong can successfully treats cancer and reduce or eliminate side effects from radiation and chemotherapy. It is helpful in treating aphasia (loss or impairment of ability to speak), cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and post-stroke syndrome. It is especially useful in treating any kind of chronic pain, and chronic disorders of the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems.
Qigong can help one fight virtually any disease. Through qigong, patients can cure many of the 50% of all diseases that Western doctors dismiss as untreatably 'psychosomatic.' If you try qigong to treat an existing illness, do so if possible under the guidance of a licensed Chinese medical doctor. Don't try it completely on your own. Beginners need professional supervision
