How To

How to Stretch and Breathe in Qigong

By eHow Health Editor

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Qigong gained a prominent position among the various Chinese healing arts back in the seventeenth century. It's not a fighting system like Tai Chi; it's more a health-giving system. To stretch and breathe in Qigong, you must use the correct posture. Otherwise, the "qi," the body's life force, cannot move through your body to provide you with energy and wellness.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Stand on a flat surface and move feet apart until they vertically align with your shoulders. Hold your hands straight down with your fingers spread apart.
Step 2

Inhale slowly through your nose. At the same time, bend your arms up in front of you to shoulder height and turn palms away from you.
Step 3

Allow the oxygen to fill up your chest. At the same time, stretch your arms out away from your body and stretch your shoulders back.
Step 4

Form a claw with both of your hands. Exhale slowly as you bring your hands together and roll your shoulders and upper back forward.
Step 5

Think of all the space around you as energy. Make your movements slow and deliberate, like those you make when you first wake up and stretch.

Tips & Warnings

According to the Chinese, practicing Qigong stretching and breathing under a pine tree helps bring more oxygen into your body.
Many naturopathic physicians use Qigong as one way to help clients suffering from chronic concerns, particularly those related to the respiratory and immune systems.
Qigong isn't safe for everyone, so be sure to check with your doctor before starting the practice.

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