Qigong is a holistic system of coordinated body posture, movement, breathing, and meditation used for health, spirituality, and martial arts training. It focuses on cultivating and balancing the body's vital energy, known as "Qi."
Traditional Qi Gong has its origins in ancient China, dating back over 4,000 years. It is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy, medicine, and martial arts. The practice evolved from the early understanding of Qi, the vital life force or energy that flows through all living things.
The primary goal is to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit by enhancing the flow of Qi through the body’s energy channels or meridians for health maintenance, stress reduction, and as a therapeutic practice for various ailments.
In its earliest forms, Qi Gong was part of ancient shamanistic rituals and practices aimed at healing and spiritual growth.
During the Taoist period, Qi Gong became more structured and was used as a method to achieve longevity and spiritual enlightenment. Taoist practitioners focused on harmonizing the body's energy with the natural world.
With the introduction of Buddhism to China, Qi Gong was integrated into Buddhist practices, emphasizing meditation and the cultivation of inner peace.
Cultivate and balance the body's energy, or "Qi."
Breathing techniques, meditation, and gentle movements enhance energy flow.
Promotes relaxation and reduces stress through mindful breathing and meditation.
Blood circulation and oxygen flow throughout the body.
Gentle movements improve flexibility and balance.
Mental clarity and focus.
Supports overall health by harmonizing mind, body, and spirit.
Deeper connection to their inner self.
Qi Gong became an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine to promote health and treat various ailments by balancing the body's energy systems. Medical Qi Gong focuses on healing and is often used in clinical settings to address specific health issues.
Martial Qi Gong or Hard Qi Gong emphasizes strength, stamina, and focus and is an integral part of Tai Chi and Kung Fu.
Spiritual Qi Gong aims for enlightenment and connection with the universe, often tied to Taoist or Buddhist traditions.
Qi Gong involves slow, deliberate movements, coordinated with deep, rhythmic breathing and focused intention or visualization. There are thousands of different forms, some dynamic with movement and others more static, focusing on stillness and meditation.
a holistic practice that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual development. Its principles cultivate balance, harmony and a deeper understanding of ONESELF and the world around.
Tai Chi is based on the principles of yin and yang, promoting harmony and balance within the body and mind. It is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it a popular form of exercise and stress relief worldwide. Tai Chi is not only a physical exercise but also a way to cultivate mindfulness and inner peace.
Tai Chi originated in China as a martial art and has a rich history intertwined with Chinese philosophy and medicine. The most widely accepted origin of Tai Chi is in Chen Village in Henan Province, China, during the 17th century. It was developed by Chen Wangting, a retired military officer of the late Ming Dynasty, who incorporated elements of Chinese martial arts, including Shaolin Kung Fu, with principles of traditional Chinese medicine and philosophy.
The primary goal is to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit by enhancing the flow of Qi through the body’s energy channels (meridians). It’s used for health maintenance, stress reduction, and even as a therapeutic practice for various ailments.
Tai Chi is characterized by slow, deliberate movements that flow smoothly from one to the next. These movements are designed to enhance balance, flexibility, and strength.
Deep, controlled breathing is integral to Tai Chi. It helps to relax the body, improve oxygen flow, and enhance concentration.
Proper posture and body alignment are crucial in Tai Chi. This helps in the efficient flow of energy or "Qi" throughout the body.
Balance and coordination
Flexibility and strength
Improve cardiovascular health and respiratory function.
Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression through its meditative aspects.
Mental clarity and focus.
Promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, inviting a positive outlook and emotional resilience.
Beneficial for managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, hypertension, and fibromyalgia due to its low-impact nature.
Traditional Kung Fu is known for its wide array of techniques, including punches, kicks, blocks, joint locks, throws and submissions. It also incorporates the use of traditional Chinese weapons such as the staff, sword or spear. The style is characterized by fluid and dynamic movements, combining speed, power, precision, agility and control.
The origins of Kung Fu trace back to the 5th century CE when the Shaolin Monastery was established. Bodhidharma, an Indian monk, introduced exercises to the monks to improve their health and meditation practices. Over time, these exercises evolved into a comprehensive martial arts system, developing, creating and refining various techniques for selfdefense and physical conditioning.
Traditional Kung Fu is a holistic practice that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit, promoting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Rigorous training routines build muscle strength and cardiovascular endurance.
Regular practice enhances flexibility and balance, reducing the risk of injuries.
Complex movements and forms develop coordination, agility and overall athleticism.
Physical activity, meditation and breathing reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Structured training fosters self-discipline and patience, valuable in all areas of life.
Effective selfdefense techniques, improving confidence and personal safety.
Integrating Chan Buddhist principles encourages self-reflection, mindfulness, and spiritual development.
Training in Shaolin Kung Fu involves practicing forms or pre-arranged sequences of movements. These forms help practitioners develop coordination, timing, and muscle memory. Conditioning exercises are a crucial part of training, focusing on building strength, flexibility, and endurance. Meditation and breathing exercises are also integrated into the training regime to enhance mental focus and inner calm.
