Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Qi Gong: Training for Mind, Body, Spirit

By Gerrard Arthur


People around the world have practiced qi gong for hundreds of years. It is an art which can be practiced by any individual at any age. Today, it is looked at generally as meditative movement and it involves every part of the body, mind and spirit. The expression "qi," in this instance, describes ones energy or spirit while the concept "gong" means to obtain a certain result. The two words in concert are to foster the energy within ones body to bring about a state of health in all ways. It is absolutely a healing art, also termed as alternative medicine, and has the fantastic ability to heal the mind and heart.

The practice has developed and been refined over the years. Initially called Taiji Quan, it was launched by Chang San Feng who lived somewhere at the conclusion of the Yuan Dynasty and the start of the Ming Dynasty. It has its origins as a martial art. Taiji Quan taught the fighting technique of Kung-Fu in the 1800's. Later, passing on this art to family members, it branched out to add a boxing style, with light and quick movements, shifting easily between hard and soft, swift and slow.

The opponent's drive is met gently and diverted, as an alternative to with equal force. These techniques had the ability to break bones, divide tendons and disrupt the pulse. There were procedures used to move energy and the teacher instructed their students to strike an assailant down immediately.

The 4 separate courses of practice are meditative, dynamic, activities and static. Taoist and Buddhists apply meditation such as breath work as part of their practice. In static poses, one stays in a posture for a certain period of time and this can used for toning up the body. Some methods can include the use of herbs.

Centuries of practice have caused Qi Gong to branch out and become an evolving technology. The multiple forms have distinct functions. The softest qi gong practice uses a flowing, back and forth movement of bringing in the energy from the universe, then releasing it back. It centers on love and forgiveness leaving one feeling renewed and peaceful. Cancer patients can be spotted on the streets in China, doing this ancient art each day. This method can be done at any time of the day and is encouraged to bring about a positive state of health for any one at any age.




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