An art form spanning ethnic integration and enduring millennia of time. The movement and postures are combined with breath work, and awareness/intention depth of practice to create systemic optimization. Qi Gong is used for martial applications, health and wellness or disease prevention and treatment, as well as spiritual and holistic personal development practice. The central tenet of Qi gong is the use of energy both internal and external through combinations of breathwork, moving meditative postures and stances, and intentional focus on areas of energetic flow transmission or blockage within the body.
The translation of Qi Gong actually means energy work. There are simply too many systems and far too much depth to cover such a fascinating art and discipline practice into one (or even 100 for that matter) blog posts. Qi Gong holds elements of generality, and correlation while also supporting the master-student relationship and the individual growth of the practitioner as progression evolves in both body and mind, and most of all within the spirit of the individual. An evolution that will encompass the physical body internal and external functional processes as a building of the intellect (Yi), attention (Shen), and intention (Zhi) become foundational but remain open for growth in each path. The practice of QI Gong is one with understanding of meridians, and energy lines within the human body and how the neurological and physiological influences are affected by each. A specific harmony is the purpose for any individual.
Both martial and health benefits are numerous from a Qi gong practice. For purposes of this short introduction into Qi Gong I will list some of the medical nbenefits associated with a regular Qi Gong practice:
· Strength, fluidity, and tone for the soft tissues of the body – tendons, ligaments, and muscles
· Tones the organs and keeps the fluids moving at optimal levels of use.
· Increases the immunity defenses against disease
· Increases mental acuity
· Regulatory with blood pressure, breath control, and waste removal
The most famous influence that Qi Gong has had on martial practices would be the Shaolin Temples and the fighting styles known as Wushu arts. Many other martial elements are trained within the boundaries of Qi Gong but suffice it to say that a Master does not always shoe his every skill, nor will she/he want the specialized knowledge to become commonplace. This ideology stems from the ancient feuds and fighting in China, India, the Silk Road was dangerous place and villagers, or travelers alike would want to keep their fighting skills and knowledge to themselves as much as possible. Two-fold, did not want to give away their secrets, and second because if they were known to be skilled then they would be defending challengers on a regular basis as martial artists in those times also needed to make a name for themselves for specific reasoning such as employment or to instill fear or respect where they roamed or resided.
A true golden nugget in the personal development field is Qi Gong. Please, take the time to read more about this awesome practice and determine a good starting point for yourself on this pathway. Health & Wellness, longevity and quality of life, and increased mental and spiritual acuity as well as multiple physical benefits including self-defense, and radiant glowing beauty alike! Try to select one source and begin with one simple posture and breathing technique for just minutes a day – then increase slowly (do not expect to become magical overnight, or to shoot flames from your hands after a session or two!) However, you will, over time begin to realize how important and useful this incredible art form is for health and personal development. Keep practicing!