Qigong is the healthy answer to movement for a lifetime — at any age and any ability.

If you’re a little shy of yoga and don’t consider the hula-hoop a viable option, Qigong (pronounced chÍ-gong) could be the answer.

Qi means energy. Gong means effort. Together the words define internal and external exercise for the body and mind. If you combine Chinese Qigong with the Ohm of a Vedic Mantra, you’ll find it to be the ideal blend of movement and meditation.

WHAT IS QIGONG?
Dating to 527 A.D., Bodhidharma, a Buddhist sage from India, settled in the Shaolin Temple in China and created a classic style of movement that led to the development of martial arts and internal arts. So was born, Qigong, and additional martial arts fighting forms. The purist movements of Qigong were preserved as peaceful. It still remains focused on the cultivation of personal energy for health and well-being.

During the Chinese Dynasties, medical doctors focused on the practice of Qigong and used it clinically to cultivate Qi energy for healing. Traditionally, it was practiced to release blocked energy and shift old patterns of both physical and emotional issues. Today, it is commonly practiced as a daily routine of movements to restore and maintain good health.

“Qigong is a successful part of an out-patient rehabilitation program for the cardiac and pulmonary patient study group at the Seton Family of Hospitals in Texas,” said Holly Ice, Seton’s senior clinical dietitian and certified Sheng Zhen Qigong instructor, speaking about the practice’s medical benefits. “It’s credited with helping to lower medication needs and improving breathing capacity.” Spiritually, Qigong encourages an open heart to attract happiness and joy in daily life.

ONE MASTER, ONE STYLE
Internationally, there are thousands of Qigong movements coupled with masters teaching Qigong theory. Master Li Jun Feng, 69, was recently in Denver to teach local followers the Sheng Zhen Qigong style. He has an extensive dossier, which includes training professional champions such as Jet Li. Feng also was featured in five martial arts films, but now dedicates his life to Qigong education.

Sheng Zhen Qigong works with Qi energy to stimulate blood circulation and revitalize the body. Emotionally, it helps reduce anxiety and sadness.

Marty Chapman is founder of The Life Council and a certified Qigong instructor. She can be reached at 303.691.0093 or thelifeCouncil.com.