Qigong and Tai Chi Easy Can Help You Stay Healthy
Many of the relaxation techniques used in this program come from Qigong, a Chinese health care system for promoting health and healing.
Qigong is an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention such as qigong meditation. For over 2,000 years these highly effective techniques have be perfected and proven successful. Tai chi is the most well known form of qigong but there are over 10,000 different forms or exercises. They are just what we need now to help us manage our stress response.
Qigong is a highly effective health care practice for self healing. Many health care professionals recommend Qigong as an important form of alternative complementary medicine. Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, National Council on Aging, and others are all recommending qigong.
Other more traditional exercises do not involve the meridian system used in acupuncture nor do they emphasize the importance of adding mind intent and breathing techniques to physical movements. When these dimensions are added, the benefits of exercise increase exponentially.
The gentle, rhythmic movements of Relaxation Exercises such as Qigong:
- reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system.
- improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulation, lymph and digestive functions.
- Western scientific research confirms that Qigong reduces hypertension and the incidence of falling in the aged population. Research for other medical conditions is ongoing.
Benefits of a consistent practice:
- regain a youthful vitality,
- maintain health even into old age,
- helps speed recovery from illness.
- reestablishes the body/mind/spirit connection.
People do Qigong or Tai Chi to maintain health, heal their bodies, calm their minds, and reconnect with their spirit. When these three aspects of our being are integrated, it encourages a positive outlook on life and helps eliminate harmful attitudes and behaviors. It also creates a balanced life style, which brings greater harmony, stability, and enjoyment. Additionally, Yoga for Seniors is a wonderful exercise.
Qigong’s great appeal is that everyone can benefit, regardless of ability, age, belief system or life circumstances. (National Qigong Association www.nqa.org)