Qigong is the art of managing the body’s energy flow to gain benefits both physically and spiritually. And, as we see here, some people in the United States have been keen to learn about the practice.

Here at Washington Square Park in New York, people from China and the US are embracing Qigong.

One paticipant said, "I felt relaxed. Yes this is the first time."

Qigong is the art of managing the body’s energy flow to gain benefits both physically and spiritually.

Qigong uses breathing techniques, gentle movement, and meditation to cleanse, strengthen, and circulate life energy. It is proven to lead to better health and vitality, and a tranquil state of mind.

Xiao Min, chairwoman of Int'l Health Qigong Federation, said, "Qigong is getting more and more popular these days because of its effectiveness, even the International Olympics Committee has recognized its benefits."

The International Health Qigong forum is held at the Skirball Center of the Performing Arts at New York University. Scholars from China, North America and Europe have shared their latest findings with more than 500 Qigong enthusiasts.

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