Qi Gong and Health
Introduction
Qi Gong (or Chi Kung) can be translated as 'energy exercise'. In the widest sense this can mean any activity that promotes the flow and balance of the body's internal energy. In China such activities have been practiced for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. One of the core elements in Qi Gong is it's focus on correct breathing. The techniques and principles surrounding breathing are common to Qi Gong, martial arts, Yoga and some forms of meditation. Indeed, Qi Gong can be thought of as meditation.
Qi Gong and Martial Arts
Many chinese martial arts have close connections to Qi Gong, the two often being taught side by side, or as an integrated whole. Tai Ji is perhaps the most obvious example of this. In fact the arm movements of Tai Ji can be practiced in a fixed stance, without the usual stepping backwards, forwards, etc. of Tai Ji. This is known as Tai Ji Qi Gong. The kata of Shorin ryu also have elements of Qi Gong practice running through them. So simply by practising Shindo martial arts one is already practicing Qi Gong to a limited extent.
Qi Gong and Health
It does not matter whatever you understand Qi to be, Qi Gong can still be of benefit to you. In common with Yoga and meditation it has many positive effects, such as:
There are many different forms of Qi Gong. Individual Shindo teachers may teach different methods and to varying degrees. If you are interested in exploring this area further, please speak to your teacher.