Best Calming Effects of Qi Gong
Qi Gong, also known as tai chi or chi kung, is a powerful set of health exercises that are gentle on the body and simple to do. The movements are designed to strengthen and balance the human energy complex — a network of channels or pathways that function as one holistic system. The practices are based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, which hold that a person’s qi – or vital energy – is present everywhere in the body and that healing occurs when the entire system is in a balanced state.
A growing body of research suggests that Qi Gong and Mental Health can improve bone and cardiovascular health, reduce pain, boost mood, increase balance and agility, and enhance the immune system. While the benefits of incorporating qigong into your daily routine are many, it’s important to consult with your healthcare providers and follow their guidance. In particular, if you have any preexisting conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes or cancer, it’s a good idea to discuss the practice with them and to let them know you plan to incorporate qi gong into your daily routine.
The Calming Effects of Qi Gong
Qi gong is a form of meditation that includes controlled breathing, body movement and visualisations, all of which are aimed at helping your qi – or your vital energy – to flow freely throughout your body. There are two main types of qigong: active qigong, which involves slow movements that improve your proprioception – or your awareness of your body in space – and passive qigong, which is stillness with calm breathing.
Both forms of qi gong can help you cope with stress. In one study, patients with chronic fatigue syndrome who practised qigong three times a week for 10 weeks showed significant improvements in their quality of life and the ability to function normally. The qigong helped reduce their symptoms of fatigue and depression, as well as improve sleep quality.
Another study found that qi gong can help manage the effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment for people with breast cancer. Patients who practised a combination of qigong and tai chi reported less fatigue, anxiety and depressive symptoms than those who only exercised.
Several studies suggest that qi gong can reduce the severity of symptoms of fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and joints. Some researchers believe that the calming effects of qi gong may be due to its emphasis on relaxation, a strategy that is often used for managing the emotional distress and disability caused by fibromyalgia.
A 2019 review found that a combination of qigong, tai chi and yoga can significantly reduce depression symptoms in people with fibromyalgia, improving their overall quality of life. However, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these results and understand the precise mechanism of action. Nonetheless, qigong can be an effective and low-cost tool for reducing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. The practice can be done at home with minimal equipment and can be tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
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