How to Follow a Qigong Lifestyle

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Unlike many modern health and fitness crazes, Chinese Qigong (pronounced "chee-gong") is not something that you "do" per se. It's more of a lifestyle to follow and a way of interacting with the energy of the world, both around you and inside you. A Qigong lifestyle is one devoted to self-improvement and self-healing. By actively manipulating the body's natural energy, called "Qi," Qigong practitioners treat conditions like stress, insomnia and fatigue using a combination of exercises, breathing techniques, meditation and sometimes special postures. Follow these steps to learn how to follow a Qigong lifestyle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Re-evaluate the way you move and react to your environment. Qigong stresses slow, controlled movements done with precision and strength instead of quick, jerky motions that can cause injury and increase strain on the body.
Step 2

Don't forget the importance of breath. Inhale deeply with your tongue touching your palate. Expand your chest and shoulders to allow your lungs to inflate completely.
Step 3

Use your abdominal muscles to draw air into the lower lungs. Hold the breath in for a moment. Contract your abs in and up to force your lungs to empty completely.
Step 4

Master breathing first. Then incorporate meditation exercises.
Step 5

Eliminate unnecessary motion. Make every movement count. Qigong exercises should be done regularly, with precision and purpose.
Step 6

Avoid toxins.
Step 7

Practice stillness. Clear your mind, and avoid extremes of emotion. Take active steps to reduce the stress in your life.
Step 8

Learn more about Qigong from recognized Qigong masters online by visiting the Qingway Qigong Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

A Qigong lifestyle is inexpensive. Generally, classes are moderately priced.
Learn to incorporate the many different styles of Qigong into an overall lifestyle. Different styles include medical, spiritual and martial Qigong.
You may wish to investigate other traditional Chinese therapies that are often used in conjunction with Qigong, like acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.
Whenever you consider a lifestyle change, make sure you understand what's involved. A commitment to a Qigong lifestyle includes setting aside enough time to exercise and meditate regularly.
If you experience symptoms like excessive sweating, numbness in the limbs or extreme fatigue during or after practicing Qigong, consult your doctor immediately.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.