Qigong History
Qigong history begins within Neolithic Chinese shamanism thousands of years before the appearance of the "Yi Jing" or "Book of Changes" in 1122 B.C. (about circulating qi, or life-energy, through the body). Qigong developed though religious and martial arts stages into the modern meditative body and breath control exercises now practiced worldwide for healing and wellness.
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Theories/Speculation
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Qigong began when the macrocosmic principles of heaven, earth and society were mapped onto the microcosmic energy-flow of the life principle within human beings. Qigong was practiced as internal alchemy to restore and maintain balance between the macrocosm and microcosm and among all the elements within both.
Features
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Qigong practice usually includes a combination of slow movements, maintained postures, breath control exercises and center of balance shifts performed with intentional awareness.
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Misconceptions
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Contemporary Qigong is often confused with Tai Chi, the Chinese martial art that emerged from it during the Liang dynasty (A.D. 502-557) because the two often appear similar or indistinguishable to nonpractitioners. Qigong is often said to require a lifetime to learn, yet in truth beginners can receive noticeable benefits quickly.
Benefits
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Qigong practice may bring better overall heath, greater vitality, improved range of motion, clearer vision, reversal of aging, relief from autoimmune diseases, optimistic attitudes and meaningful spiritual experiences.
Warning
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To avoid harmful physical or psychological side effects or the worsening of preexisting health problems, it is important to find an expert instructor who teaches a balanced Qigong practice.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Luigi Scorcia/Flickr.com
