"In sports and martial arts, qigong is the key to strength, stamina, coordination, speed, flexibility, balance, and resistance to injury. Qigong exercises can improve performance in any sport, improving the golf drive, tackling ability in football, accuracy in tennis, and stamina in swimming." [Ken Cohen]
About
Although there are many ways to practice qigong, the following three elements should always be included, regulation of mind, body and breath, among which regulation of mind is the most important. Regulating the mind into a state of relaxation is the most important step in qigong practice.
Practicing qigong does not need any equipment. There is no limitation of sex, age or general health. Qigong can be performed in any season and in all weather, indoors or outdoors. During practice, one can stand, sit, walk or lie down. Everyone can do it. Qigong promotes the physical and intellectual development of children and promotes their learning ability. For adults, qigong can remove fatigue and raise working efficiency. For the aged, the effect of qigong is even more beneficial. Qigong can make the best use of the stored nutrients, and is effective for prolonging life. Everyone can practice qigong and will benefit from it.
More Foundations
- Relaxation: While practicing qigong, the mind should be calm. When the mind and body are relaxed, it facilitates the circulation of qi and blood. Relaxation is a prerequisite for directing the flow of qi by the will.
- Direction of qi by the will: This is the most important action in qigong. The flow of thought should be concentrated on a certain part of the body, such as the Dantian and/or the area that requires healing. Only the concentrated will [intention] can promote the flow of qi. As soon as the body is relaxed, the flow of thought should be concentrated. Through concentration of the will and direction of the flow of qi by the will a state which promotes the self-regulation of the body is formed. This is the most important element of qigong exercise.
- Movement of the body: This refers to adjustment of the posture during practice. Movement of the limbs can promote the flow of qi in the meridians, helping the direction of the flow of qi by will. The principle of body movement is to adjust the body to the most comfortable posture, including the head, neck, waist, limbs, fingers and organs. Body movement can be integrated with the thinking in images, causing further concentration of thought. During body movement, it is important to keep the respiration natural and smooth with even inhalation and exhalation.
- Disclaimer: Albany Qigong and all instructors shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to loss or damage caused, or alleged to be caused, directly or indirectly, by reading or following the instructions on this website or at Albany Qigong's locations. Qigong practice is not intended to replace orthodox medicine, but rather complement it. You should ask your doctor before beginning any Qigong practice.