What is Qigong?

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

04 Jan 2008 03:33 PM

Looking for an exercise that can give you more energy, more stamina, and a stronger immune system? You might want to look at qigong.

Qigong means energy work. It is a form of active meditation that focuses on graceful, flowing movements.

The results are in: qigong makes a difference.

• Studies from UCLA found that qigong can lower stress hormone levels and enhance nervous system activity. Healthy adults in the study who practiced qigong had ten percent more energy compared to those who practiced tai chi. Stress-related headaches may also be relieved or eliminated entirely.
• A Swedish study found that women who practiced qigong had a slower heart rate and lower blood pressure, despite their high pressure, fast paced computer-based jobs.
• A study from Hong Kong Polytechnic University found that adults with holiday-related depression experienced a seventy percent reduction in symptoms after practicing qigong. The longer you practice, the better you'll feel. The study indicates that two months of regular practice can help regulate levels of serotonin in the brain.
• According to a study from the Oregon Research Institute, people who practice qigong or tai chi have an easier time falling asleep and stay asleep longer. Study participants fell asleep eighteen minutes faster and slept nearly an hour longer than people who did not practice qigong or tai chi. Why? The meditative movements may help modify your circadian rhythms.
• Three hours of qigong per week can help rev up your immune system. A study from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne found that adults who did qigong developed three times as many antibodies after receiving the flu vaccine compared to folks who just got the vaccine. Three hours per week is a small price to pay for the immune system boost!
• Another University of Illinois study found that the graceful, flowing movements of qigong can help improve balance and reaction time. The benefit there? A reduced number of slips and falls thanks to stronger muscles and improved coordination.

Qigong also uses a bit of acupressure. While you do the movements, you should breathe through your nose with your lips closed. The tip of the tongue should touch the roof of your mouth just behind your teeth -- this is an acupressure point thought to regulate energy in the body.

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Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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mcmama (51978) 04 Jan 2008 05:21 PM

It makes a huge difference to me. Has helped with wrist numbness, and even though I have a problem knee and it hurts to stretch it, after I do so with qigong if have much better mobility and circulation.