Qigong, or "exercising theQi" -- the vital life force in one's body -- is considered to be a part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in preventive and therapeutic health care.
Qigongis commonly considered as mysterious and profound. Deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture -- especially in the unique concepts of theYinandYang, five elements of nature andJingluo(main and collateral channels) in the human body -- it is inseparable from ancient Chinese philosophy, medicine and religion.
According to Chinese philosophy, everything, including the universe, is interrelated and in a state of constant flux where human organisms are microcosms of the universe. Everything is inter-related and interacts with the five basic elements -- wood, fire, earth, gold (or metal) and water, constantly interacting among the opposing and unifying forces - the Yin and Yang. Health is achieved when equilibrium is maintained; sickness appears when the balance is broken. This is the basic law governs all humans and nature.
It is said that theQiflows through all of theYinandYangorgans. A deficiency ofQiin any organ means the organ is out of balance. The inter-relatedness of all organs ensures that theQiflows properly throughout the body. One has to reach a peaceful state of mind and be in harmony with his or her surroundings to maintain good health.
Qigongis a health-oriented art involving the body and mind that helps prevent disease and cures illnesses, making life more pleasant.Qigongsmoothes the process of delivering oxygen to cells, reduces stress and improves bowel functions. Good for treating mental disabilities and stress, theQiexercises bring one to a state of meditation where distress and anxiety are driven away and positive thinking with great confidence is affirmed. In this state, concentration can also be easily achieved. Through the exercises one gains control of his or her body and develops good feelings about life. This, in turn, stimulates the circulation of blood and theQi.