Qigong FAQ

What is Qigong?

Qigong is a Chinese exercise system. It has been in existence for thousands of years and is believed to be the basis of Chinese medicine. It is designed to move energy within the body by coordinating breath, intent and movement.

There are hundreds of forms of Qigong. Some are designed to address a specific health issue while others are more for generally balancing the energy in the body.

What should I expect in Qigong class?

Class consists of an opening, warm ups, Qi scattering, Qi cultivation and refinement, and a closing.

Warm ups start at the top of the body and move progressively down loosening and warming up the joints. They, along with the opening, also serve as a transition into the practice. The practitioner starts focusing on Qigong and less on outside considerations.

Qi scattering are movements that break up and release stagnant energy. This clears the body in preparation for moving Qi throughout the rest of the practice.

Qi cultivation and refinement make up the bulk of the practice. This is where the purpose of the practice(health issue, balance) is focused on.

What is required to learn Qigong?

An open mind. No special equipment is necessary although some locations require shoes that are only used for class or indoors.

What if I have health concerns?

Qigong is generally safe but you should always check with your doctor if you have concerns. Due to the slow nature of the movements, as long as the students maintains personal awareness of their own physical condition, they can always stop or modify a movement when necessary.