What is Qigong?

Qigong is one of the three pillars of traditional Chinese medicine, along with acupuncture and herbal remedies.

Qigong literally means "breath work" or "energy cultivation exercises." These exercises combine gentle body movements, self-massage, breath practice and deep relaxation.

Qigong cultivates the medicine within the human body. It evokes the relaxation response, slowing down breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and brain wave patterns. Qigong also stimulates the immune system, lowers adrenaline levels and increases circulation of the blood and lymph, carrying oxygen to the cells and flushing out toxins and waste products. It is an excellent tool for preventing disease and leading a healthy life.

Why should I do Tai Chi or Qigong? What are the benefits for me?

Reducing stress is probably the best thing Tai Chi and Qigong do for health. Stress is the number one health problem in America, with an estimated 60 to 70 percent of all visits to physicians due to stress-related illness. Anything that can relieve stress will improve your health. (The Washington Post, April 14, 1998)

The movements of Tai Chi promote balance and flexibility in the joints.

Tai Chi puts you in a calm, meditative state of mind and has even been shown to boost your immune system.