qigong

qigong, (pronounced “chi-gong”) an ancient Chinese system of physical exercise and meditation that combines movement, breathing, and mental concentration. Qigong serves as the foundation for the closely related practice of tai chi chuan, which originated as a martial art before becoming popular as a health-promoting exercise.

Also known as dao yin, qigong has its roots in Daoist traditions dating back to approximately 2146 bce. The term dao yin refers to “guiding the qi,” the vital energy of the body, and appears in the early Daoist texts, including the Zhuangzi. This collection, attributed to the Daoist philosopher Zhuang Zhou, describes exercises inspired by animal movements and breathing techniques intended to promote longevity and revitalize people suffering from various health ailments.

The term qigong, which translates to “cultivating the qi,” was popularized in the mid-20th century. The practice, in its modern iteration, functions on the principle of moving the qi through channels known as meridians. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), each organ is associated with a specific meridian. By affecting these meridians, qigong is believed to influence the health and function of the body’s organs.

Qigong was briefly banned during the Cultural Revolution due to its spiritual and religious aspects and its links to the controversial Falun Gong movement. However, shifting politics and an emphasis on scientific approaches to health helped to reintegrate qigong into Chinese society. Qigong is now considered an essential component of traditional Chinese medicine, along with acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal medicine.

In recent decades qigong has been the subject of significant Western medical research, and the practice is now recommended for reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving breathing and coordination, managing pain, and alleviating fatigue. Research indicates that qigong may help improve balance in individuals with Parkinson disease, reduce fibromyalgia pain, and enhance cardiovascular health. Additional studies suggest benefits for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), various cancers, and other ailments. Qigong has also been shown to improve cognition and memory, as well as aid in fall prevention, all of which are important benefits for aging adults. Qigong’s slow, low-to-no-impact movements, which can be done standing or sitting, make it very accessible for older adults, though people of any age can practice and benefit from it.