-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
exercise
qigong: overview and uses
physical medicine
definition
qigong: overview and uses
The basics of standing and breathing are the first things one learns in China. Initially non-Chinese students stand in basic Qigong position breathing in the different ways for three hours; this is a concession to foreigners because Chinese students usually do this for two or three weeks before they receive any further instructions. The three-hour training session is considered light because Westerners need to have things quickly.
The emphasis is on learning to stand and breathe, because from this comes all the exercises. And if you understand the reason for it, you understand what Qigong is all about. Just this much gives you a feeling that (1) the focus is inside, (2) there is a mental focus, and (3) by moving the arms and legs we can build energy in the center. Then from here, there are many sets of Qigong. Some of them are very subtle, in the sense that as you stand, you simply move a finger an inch or so up or down. With the proper mental focus this can shift energy in the acupuncture channels tremendously. Some are quite gross, where you wave your hands like a fan or move up and down in space, or take a step. Tai Chi Chuan, for example, is a moving form of Qigong.
Qigong is the root of the Chinese healing arts and the martial arts. Traditionally, Chinese were taught Qigong first. Then they were taught standing postures, and those were linked together in a moving set. They put on their technique like a suit of clothes. Today it is taught the other way around. You learn the postures first, and if you are lucky maybe the master will teach you about Qi and energy. So as a result you dont have much power. Martial arts and Tai Chi Chuan become like a dance; just a moving exercise form. There is nothing wrong with this but the focus was the other way around traditionally; you learn your energy circulation first and then the various martial art moves.
You can heal with Qigong too. This involves sending the Qi energy out of the loop into the body of someone else. In Qigong you have a choice. The energy can either stay within your body or leave your body. If it stays in your body then it is strictly for you; you are healing yourself. If it is going outside your body in a warm gentle stream, it is for healing. If it is being gathered and pulsed out of the body in a big bolt, it is for use in the martial arts. It can be used either way. Qigong is the root for all this.
(Allee)
see also:
qigong: introduction
qigong: basic stance
qigong: essentials of breathing
footnotes