?Health Benefits of Qigong and T'ai Chi Qigong has been practiced in China since around 500BC. Rock...

1. Health Benefits of Qigong and T'ai Chi
?Health Benefits of Qigong and T'ai Chi
Qigong has been practiced in China since around 500BC. Rock faces found in China and Tibet show
ancient drawings of qigong-like exercises. Today, qigong is still a major component of Traditional
Chinese Medicine and is believed to clear the body meridians of obstructions to health and to restore
the body's own natural healing capabilities. Taoist and Buddist philosophies incorporate qigong into
many of their mind and body healing routines.
The Asian Mind-Body-Spirit HealersQi means life energy and gong means practice. Both qigong
andtai chiare methods of balancing the flow of qi via breath, gentle movements and meditation. With
its origins in ancient Chinese shamanic beliefs and magical revelations, qigong is often thought of as
mysterious to us Westerners. In the past Chinese shamans used qigong exercises and meditations to
communicate with the higher powers and boost their own healing powers. Folk stories tell of qigong
masters lighting fires by simply projecting their energy.
Qi FlowOne popular version of qigong in the West is Tai Chi which is a form of slow, dance-like
movements designed to invigorate the body and mind. There are over one thousand exercises from
simple slow movements to more complicated techniques where practitioners use qi flow and healing
from a distance. Some forms of qigong target specific body areas such as health imbalances, stress
relief and health assessments.
Qigong provides the structure for most modern martial arts forms. Qigong can be seen in the boxing
arenas of Asia and groups doing their morning exercises throughout parks in China. Its popularity is
growing in the West due to the stress relieving benefits for mind, body and spirit.

2. Health Benefits of Practising Qigong Forms of ExerciseHundreds of Asian studies confirm that
Qigong is excellent for the mind body connections with remarkable healing powers. There are even
reports of people being cured from cancer.
Reducing high blood pressure - studies have shown those taking blood-pressure lowering drugs and
practicing qigong have more balanced blood pressure than those just taking medication.
Accelerating the elimination of toxins and waste in a natural detoxification process.
Increasing circulation - qigong has proved helpful for those with angina, migraines and cold hands
or feet.
Balancing brain chemistry and reducing anxiety - proven to aid with obsessive compulsive disorders
and depression.
Improving posture, flexibility, balance and strength - this can reduce and prevent falling injuries in
the elderly.
Blocking the damaging effects of free radicals - qigong has antioxidant effects, stimulates SOD
Super Oxide Dismutase production and enhances the body's oxygen and nutrient uptake.
Fighting cancer by boosting the immune systemRelieving chronic pain caused by injuries, surgery,
arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Qigong is more than just exercise. It involves lifestyle, diet, emotional wellbeing and spiritual
practice.
http://suite101.com/a/health-benefits-of-qigong-and-tai-chi-a134902