Elemental Qigong

Qigong FAQs

What is qigong?

The word qi (chee) is often translated “vital energy” and gong means “work.” So qigong may be interpreted as “working with vital energy.” Qigong as a healing art is a precursor to all the martial arts; before the Shaolin monks developed the gongfu (kung fu) for which they are famous, they trained in qigong to maximize their health.

What are the benefits of qigong in the 21^st century?

In his latest book, YOU Staying Young, Dr. Mehmet Oz recommends qigong two or more days a week, stating "If you want to live to 100...do qigong." In his latest book, YOU Staying Young, Dr. Mehmet Oz recommends qigong two or more days a week, stating "If you want to live to 100...do qigong." (The Oprah Show 11/1/07)

Health Benefits & Effects:

    *Boosts the immune system and enhance the body’s ability to recover from illness and injury
    *Lowers blood pressure and increases ability to deal with the effects of stress *Decreases asthma and allergy reactions
    *Enhances mental acuity, concentration and ability to focus
    *Accelerates the metabolism and decreases need for sleep

    New York Times (April 5, 2007) "The face of exercise is changing in America. Instead of relentlessly pursuing a sculptured physique, people are chasing longevity, stress reduction and improved health through mind-body practices like qigong."
    Journal of American Geriatric Society concluded (Nov. 1995): “practicing …regularly may delay the decline of cardio-respiratory function in older individuals.”
    Men’s Health (Mar/Apr 1993): (Qigong) teaches inner strength while toning muscles, increasing flexibility, and boosting immune power.”
    America Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (June 1991) stated that (qigong) is “safe for rheumatoid arthritis patients” and is a weight bearing exercise that “has the potential…of stimulating bone growth and strengthening connective tissue” (preventing osteoporosis).

What form of qigong should I use?

Which ever form you take pleasure in. The key to deriving the benefits of qigong is regular practice, so use the form (style) you enjoy most.

How often should I practice and how long should a session last?

First thing in the morning for an hour is ideal, but realistically not always possible. A fifteen or twenty minute session in the morning and another like session in the evening is a good compromise on busy days, but some qigong is better than none and even five or ten minutes interspersed at convenient times throughout the day will provide benefit.

Can I perform qigong if I have physical limitations?

With modification and their physician’s approval, almost everyone can practice qigong. Certain exercises should be avoided by pregnant women and those with knee problems, but there are sitting and even reclining forms that can be undertaken by those with acute physical limitations.

Elemental Qigong Forms

Wuji Hundun Qigong : Revitalize with Qigong

The first exercise, zhao, is representative of sunrise. The final exercise, hui, indicates sunset. The remaining exercises are meant to be done in random order, which represents the chaotic nature of the universe and stimulates the right (creative) side of the brain. (As taught byFrancesco Garripoli & Daisy Lee)

Taiji Qigong Shibashi : Qigong for Health

This series of movements is a wonderful workout for the whole body: joints, muscles, internal organs, and energy system. The eighteen exercises are easy to learn and adaptable for both wheelchair students and those with poor circulation or arthritic joints. (Adapted from Chris Jarmey)

Qigong for Cleansing : Detoxify & Soothe

Restore body and mind with these exercises that emphasize slow stretching and breathing control. This form stimulates and cleanses the key organs, calms the nervous system, and restores mental clarity. (As taught by Francesco Garipolli & Daisy Lee)

Qigong in a Chair : Qigong for Everyone

This form introduces qigong as a seated exercise that can be performed equally by those at a desk in the office or by those with limited strength or mobility of the lower limbs. The five segments comprising the form may also be used as short, fifteen minute daily routines. (Adapted from Cynthia Quarta)

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This site was last updated 02/19/10