The first part ‘Qi’ translates as energy, and the second part ‘Gong’ translates to mean work or skill. So, qigong is any practice that we use to work with energy or develop skill with it.

Qi is the vital energy that flows through the bodies of all living beings. There are many types of energy within all of us; heat in our metabolism, electricity through our nerves and movement of fluids and organs throughout our bodies. Qi is the combination of all this energy.

When we work with our energy, we can tap into and influence these subtle functions within us. We influence the activity of our nerves, the flow of our blood, the internal movement and activity of our cells to bring health and vitality to every part of our body.

Qigong combines the mind, body and breath using a variety of simple postures, deep breathing and intention setting which promotes a good energy flow. Combining these movements replenishes and restores your energy levels to balance, heal and nourish your body. During these movements the body is regulated through posture, the mind is regulated through focus and intention and the breath is regulated by the movement of the body. When all these principles are combined they are more than the sum of their parts and this improved flow of energy can enhance overall health.

Qigong is safe to be practiced by anyone with any level of fitness and health.

Qigong can be used to positively influence a broad range of conditions. In fact with consistent practice qigong can help you to recover from most illnesses and injuries and can improve physical and mental performance. In research studies qigong has also been shown to significantly improve health markers:

• Reduce cortisol

• Lower blood pressure

• Strengthen the immune system

• Improve cognitive performance

• Improve muscle strength

• Improve sleep

• Improve balance

For more information visit: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3085832/