Qigong is a physical and mental exercise depending on gentle movement, controlled breathing and meditation. Translated, qigong means energy work and is based on traditional Chinese beliefs in Qi, the life force. Qigong is closely related to tai chi but requires less physical stamina. There are two types of qigong, internal and external, both of which involve efforts to manipulate Qi. Internal qigong requires intense mental concentration, little or no movement and is practiced alone to strengthen one's own Qi. External qigong requires the participation of a qigong master who has been trained to transmit his/her own life force energy to influence the health of the patient.

How is qigong thought to promote wellness and optimize overall health?

The traditional Chinese purpose of qigong is to rebalance the inner Qi, or life force, to calm the mind, achieve self-healing and increase stamina so as to better equip the patient to handle the challenges of life. Restoration of Qi is believed to improve blood flow, circulation and the effectiveness of the lymph and nervous systems, lower blood pressure and heart rate and alleviate stress.

What has been proven about the benefit of qigong?

There have been undocumented claims that qigong has cured cancer. However, it has been shown that qigong can promote sounder sleep, increase relaxation, reduce anxiety and stress and improve quality of life. Studies have also shown that regularly practiced qigong improves balance, reduces the number of falls and enhances well-being in elderly patients. Qigong can easily be used in conjunction with allopathic medicine and is consistent with many health maintenance programs designed to improve fitness, promote wellness and optimize health.