A grounded guide to this traditional Chinese movement and breath practice

Qigong (氣功) is a traditional Chinese system of coordinated movement, breath regulation and focused attention. The word itself combines:

• Qi (氣) — often translated as “vital energy,” but more accurately understood as life force, breath, or functional vitality

• Gong (功) — meaning skill cultivated through consistent practice
  

Together, Qigong means the cultivation of vital energy through disciplined training.

Where Did Qigong Come From?

Qigong has roots in several classical Chinese traditions:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

• Daoist internal cultivation practices

• Buddhist meditative movement systems

• Chinese martial arts

Historical forms of Qigong date back over 5000 years, though the term “Qigong” became widely used in the 20th century to describe these internal energy cultivation systems collectively.

Different schools emphasise different outcomes — health preservation, spiritual cultivation, martial strength — but the foundations remain consistent.

What Does Qigong Actually Involve?

Authentic Qigong practice includes three core components:

1. Postural Alignment

Learning how to stand, move and hold the body with structural integrity. This improves balance, joint stability and muscular coordination.

2. Breath Regulation

Breath is guided, slowed and deepened in coordination with movement. Over time, this can improve respiratory efficiency and autonomic regulation.

3. Focused Attention

The mind is trained to remain steady and present. This mental component distinguishes Qigong from general stretching or exercise.

It is the integration of these three elements — body, breath and mind — that defines Qigong.

Is Qigong the Same as Tai Chi?

Tai Chi (Taijiquan) is a martial art that contains Qigong principles.

Qigong is broader and also older.

While Tai Chi forms can take years to learn in sequence, many Qigong systems use shorter, repeatable movements designed specifically for:

• Internal regulation

• Breath development

• Structural strength

• Elemental balance

What Does the Research Say About Qigong?

Modern research suggests that regular Qigong practice may:

• Improve balance and reduce fall risk in older adults

• Support joint mobility and muscular endurance

• Improve respiratory function

• Reduce stress and support emotional regulation

• Support cardiovascular health markers

• Improve quality of life measures

Studies often group Qigong with Tai Chi in research literature. While results vary depending on duration and consistency, the overall evidence supports Qigong as a low-impact, sustainable mind-body practice.

Importantly: Qigong is not a replacement for medical care, but it can be a supportive adjunct practice for overall wellbeing.

Is Qigong “Just Slow Movement”?

No.

While movements are controlled and deliberate, Qigong:

• Builds tendon and connective tissue strength

• Improves neuromuscular coordination

• Trains breath capacity

• Develops internal stability

Many students report sweating during practice, particularly in dynamic sequences.

Slow does not mean passive.

Controlled does not mean weak.

Who Is Qigong Suitable For?

Qigong is particularly beneficial for:

• People recovering from burnout

• Those managing stress or anxiety

• Individuals wanting joint-friendly strength training

• Practitioners of yoga or Pilates seeking internal refinement

• Anyone wanting a sustainable long-term practice

• Energy practitioners seeking deeper cultivation of qi

It can be adapted for beginners and deepened for advanced students.

Qigong at The Reiki Nook

Our Qigong classes are:

• Season-led

• Elementally structured

• Breath-focused

• Progressive

• Limited in size to maintain quality

You are not a number in the room.

You are trained and observed.

Over time, students often notice:

• Increased resilience

• Greater body awareness

• Reduced reactivity

• Improved physical steadiness
  

This is cultivation — not catharsis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Qigong spiritual?

Qigong has roots in Daoist and Buddhist traditions, but modern practice can be purely health-focused or internally reflective depending on the school.

Do I need to be flexible?

No. Flexibility develops gradually through consistent practice.

How often should I practise Qigong?

2–3 times per week supports noticeable change. Daily short practice enhances results.

Is Qigong safe?

For most people, yes. It is low-impact and adaptable. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have a medical condition.

Ready to Experience Qigong?

If you are looking for:

• A structured, grounded movement practice

• Nervous system steadiness without intensity culture

• Physical strength without joint strain

• A long-term discipline, not a trend
  

Qigong may be the right place to begin.

→ View current Qigong classes at The Reiki Nook