There are many theories and ideas about what qigong is and how it works (see also the interview with Master Zhu Guang in the Articles section). On this page it is our intention to share with you various perspectives on this ancient art, including some of our own thoughts and links to other websites. There are probably many hundreds of different types of qigong, some practiced for healing, some for fitness and general well-being, some for conditioning the body for martial arts (nei gong). Two very popular sets of qigong exercises are the Eight Brocade or Ba Duan Jin and the Eighteen Tai Chi Qigong, which are listed below, together with the benefits they are said to bring with regular practice.
8 Brocade Qigong (Ba Duan Jin)
1 Hold up the sky Regulates all internal organs. Helps correct posture.
2 The Archer Exercises heart and lungs. Improves circulation.
3 One hand high Increases flow of energy down sides of body
4 Look back and gaze at the moon Stimulates kidneys. Strengthens neck and shoulders.
5 Bend to side Relaxing. Increases flow of energy down several meridians.
6 Circling forwards Exercises muscles of lower back and legs. Stimulates kidneys and organs of lower abdomen.
7 Punch hands slowly Develops flow of Chi through body from feet upwards. Helps circulation.
8 Shaking the kidneys Massages internal organs. Good for spine, central nervous system and balance.
(Movements 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are not recommended when pregnant.)
Eighteen Tai Chi Qi Gong
(Shi Ba Shi Tai Ji Qi Gong)
The Eighteen Tai Chi Qi Gong system was developed by Professor Lin Hou Sheng in 1979. Lin Hou Sheng is a renowned Qi Gong master and healer.
He was a professor at the college of Chinese medicine in Shanghai, director of the Chinese Qi Gong Research Institute and the Honorary President of the International Society of Natural cures.
The Qi gong set is simple to learn and the moves can be adapted to suit the needs of the individual.
Although this type of Qi Gong has the name Tai Chi Qi Gong, it has little resemblance to, or connection with, Tai Chi Chuan the martial art.
1. Commencing form (Heaven & Earth) Regulates blood pressure, strengthens the heart, helps to keep the joints of the limbs supple.
2. Open the chest wide Improves respiration, strengthens the heart and lungs and helps reduce depression and insomnia
3. Rainbow dance Balances blood pressure, aids the digestive system
4. Separate the clouds Strengthens the legs, stimulates the kidneys, benefits the lungs and heart and improves blood circulation
5. Repulsing monkey Stimulates the liver and gall bladder channels
6. Rowing the boat (upright or bending forward) Stimulates kidney and bladder function. Strengthens the back (if done correctly) Has a beneficial effect on the adrenal glands
7. Lifting the ball to the shoulder Balances blood pressure, stimulates the spleen channel
8. Gaze at the moon over the shoulder Liver and gall bladder channels are slightly stretched, improves flexibility in the lower spine
9. Push the palms diagonally Aids digestion and bowel movement, stimulates the large intestine channel. Strengthens Dan Tien centre and promotes stronger legs and back
10. Cloud hands Aids digestion and is believed to calm the central nervous system
11. Scoop water from the sea, look at the sky Stimulates the heart and lungs and improves blood circulation
12. Pushing like a wave Improves the function of the kidneys and bladder, strengthens the legs and hip joints
13. Bird stretches wings Improves respiration, strengthens the heart and lungs and helps reduce depression
14. Extend arms & thrust fists Aids digestion and regulates bowel movements. Stimulates mental clarity
15. Wild goose flies through the air Stimulates lungs, promotes lightness and helps lift depression
16. Ferris wheel Strengthens the kidneys and promotes back flexibility and strength (if done correctly)
17. Mark time & bounce the ball Improves co-ordination and balance
18. Press down palms to calm the mind Calms and balances the mind.
The rest of this page is currently under construction.