What is Qigong and why do it?

Just as we can cultivate and nourish a garden we can also cultivate and nourish qualities within ourselves.  The practice of qigong is a tool for this purpose.  The term "qigong" (pronounced chee-gong) is the modern term for a grouping of practices that were originally known as “yang shen.”  Yang Shen translates to, “the art of nourishing life.”  The phrase "nourishing life" is a concise way to describe what we are doing when we practice qigong.   

Qigong originated in a culture that was very closely tied to the land through agriculture.  The ancient Chinese studied nature and through their study developed systems to live in harmony with nature and to enhance the qualities in themselves that were beneficial.  While practicing qigong, we are nourishing our life energy or essence, what the Chinese traditionally called Qi or Jing.  The concept of qi can be found in almost all cultures by various names, such as spirit, mana, ruach, or pranah to name a few.

Another concept that is at the heart of qigong is the notion of, “taking care of the difficult while it is still easy.”  Qigong is a practice that is focused on preventing ill health by strengthening one's natural abilities.  Historically qigong has been used to support an aging process that did not hinder one's personal or spiritual development.  What this means is that as you age, you are able to maintain your mental and physical abilities.

Qigong is like a tool with multiple attachments.  It has infinite applications in one’s life.  Through the practice of qigong the body, mind and energy become more integrated and healthy which in turn produces more energy and vitality.  With this enhanced energy and vitality, people can focus this on any aspect of their lives.

There are many different types of qigong with greatly varying practices and philosophies behind them.  One of the best ways to approach learning a particular system of qigong is to go and observe a class.

I am a certified instructor of Jingui Golden Shield Qigong originating from the Ermei Mountain region of China.  My classes are open to anyone interested, feel free to stop by anytime.

Dan Pappas