Tai chi and qigong are known as ‘healing’ arts. They exist as internal arts systems with collectively thousands of years of history between them. There is a vast amount of information available in many formats discussing these disciplines at length. They are known as internal arts, or practices, and each works with the body’s the energy systems in their own way.
What is ‘Qi’?
From an Eastern viewpoint, ‘qi’ (“chee”) is the vital life energy inside each being. In China, is it known as qi, in India it is referred to as prana, in Greek it is pneuma. To have strong qi flow is to have good, vibrant health, and to have weak qi is a sign of illness or imbalance.
What many Westerners or Europeans typically know is that they feel strong energetically, or they feel weak (or sick, or unstable in some way). Practice of disciplines such as tai chi or qigong work with the qi flow in the body to promote health, increase flexibility and balance, and help stabilize the emotions. Since all individuals have this energy intrinsically, practice allows a deeper sensitivity to qi.
While Each is Different, There are Some Similar Foundations
Tai chi (tie-jee) and qigong (chee gung) are widely practiced throughout the world. Both disciplines can enable a person to rebalance and refocus. They can relieve tension and bad stress, such as the ‘buzz’ or high-frequency sensation some people experience with their nervous system, or ‘brain fog.’ Both can positively affect a person’s health, well-being, and longevity.
These two arts may be practiced and are commonly done in slow-motion, but they are different movements, although they may look similar in some cases, or be related.
While the ‘martial’ or fighting part of qigong is not stressed as it is with tai chi, the power and internal energy developed would enhance a practitioner’s martial abilities.
Some tai chi ‘sets’ have a short and a longer version of the same form, and can incorporate movements that are similar to qigong exercises.
As there are different eras or periods of music, there are varying methods of both tai chi and qigong, originating out of families, schools, and lineages.
There Are Many Health Benefits Associated with These Practices
There have been numerous studies and clinical trials made throughout the world on both tai chi and qigong. Now that both disciplines are becoming more recognized, these long lists of studies and research presenting verified benefits are more common. The Qigong Institute is one of several online resources with published findings on the benefits.
Overall benefits include reducing the expected negative effects of aging, and to promote better health. Competitive athletes are implementing these arts to increase stamina, alertness, and quickness. Another benefit from the practice is the reduced healing time from sports injuries. Persons recovering from surgery or procedures often have significantly greater and quicker improvements when adding a healthful therapy, such as tai chi or qigong. These systems can be added to an existing Physical Therapy or exercise program.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Less sick time, and better ability to protect the body from disease due to a more efficient immune system
- Better cardiovascular health – promotes blood vessel dilation so the heart doesn’t pump so hard
- Improved breathing and better removal of toxins due to better respiratory function including activation of the lymphatic system
- Lessened depression and mood swings due to practices that reduce tension, and enhance well-being
- Better sleep and less insomnia symptoms due to better ability to relax internally, allowing more even blood flow and breath circulation
Many people in the workplace choose to practice internal arts to enhance their physical and mental capabilities, and help them cope with daily stress and problems. The residual effects of utilizing a program incorporating tai chi or qigong can help give a person mental focus, calmness, and ability to perform at their peak.
From a business-management standpoint, you are a more valuable employee when you are productive and feeling well.
From a personal standpoint, you are a healthier, more balanced individual with the capacity to enjoy life at its fullest.
Take an active part in your own healthcare by learning tai chi. Many class options are offered by Sales Creators®/Tai Chi for Health.
Offering Tai Chi and Wellness programs in Spokane since 2005
Cindy is a consultant, practitioner and teacher. She brings health options to businesses and their employees, as well as individuals of all ages.