According to the Wall Street Journal, Qigong (also spelled chi kung, or chi gung), a Chinese health practice based on gentle movement, mediation and breathing, and which is becoming increasingly popular in the United States, has been found to improve blood pressure and balance in practitioners. Qigong, with its roots in traditional Chinese medicine, is a close cousin to the better-known practice of Tai Chi. The article, entitled “The Intriguing Health Benefits of Qigong“, and citing the benefits of Qigong, was published in the October 1, 2013 issue of the Wall Street Journal.
The article cites Shin Lin, professor of cell biology at the University of California, Irvine, who described Qigong as a practice that cultivates “qi,” or life energy. Professor Li studied Qigong and Tai-Chi practitioners, and has found a boost in both alpha brain waves, suggesting relaxation, and beta waves, indicating strong focus, among Tai Chi and Qigong students. The Wall Street Journal quotes Dr. Lin saying: “It has the dual benefit of relaxing you, but also sharpening your mind”.
Another study, conducted by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration, a Cambridge, Massachusetts, research group that evaluates natural therapies, found that there is “good evidence” to support the application of Qigong to assist in controlling hypertension (high blood pressure).
Check our our martial and healing arts classes at Full Potential Martial Arts where we teach Qigong, as well as Tai Chi.
Qigong and other ancient practices are holistic techniques that help to regulate the body. Many traditional practices, such as mindful movement and meditation, help to soothe the body and mind.