Tai Chi Qigong (Tai Chi Chi Kung)

Sometimes called “Chinese Yoga”, qigong is the ancient art and science of using breath, posture, movement, stretching, meditation, visualisation, and/or sound to cultivate subtle energy, improve health, transform consciousness, and increase power for martial arts.

There are an estimated 3000 schools of qigong in China. Most of these can fit into one or more of the following categories:

• Medical Qigong
• Daoist Qigong
• Buddhist Qigong
• Emitting/Absorbing/Healing Qigong
• Wushu (Martial Arts) Qigong

Tai chi qigong incorporates elements of daoist qigong and wushu qigong, and has much in common with other categories of qigong as well. The daoist qigong has no religious component whatsoever, and the wushu qigong elements are much more gentle and "soft" than other types of wushu qigong.

Tai chi qigong provides the mental and physical foundation for great tai chi practice. It loosens the joints, warms the muscles, stimulates qi production and circulation, and improves concentration. Without qigong, it is impossible to achieve the phenomenal "internal" martial power that tai chi chuan is famous for.

The health benefits of tai chi qigong are so great that most people who practise tai chi chuan do so primarily for their health.

When you practice tai chi chuan forms (routines) 50% of the art is considered qigong. So it is good to view the routines as a context for practising qigong.

The health benefits of tai chi qigong include reduced stress, a stronger immune system, deeper awareness, better coordination, increased vitality, improved tai chi skill, and internal power.