The Calming Effects Of Qi Gong
Qi Gong is an ancient healing practice that combines physical movement, breathing techniques and meditation to enhance vitality and promote holistic well-being. Using slow, coordinated movements and deep meditation, qigong improves energy flow (Qi) throughout the body. This energy flow helps to reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, and balance bodily functions. Traditionally, qigong has been used to treat medical conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and back pain. Recent research has shown that qigong can also boost mood, and improve quality of life in cancer patients.
Qi Gong and Mental Health is the energy of life. It flows through energy pathways called meridians, connecting the mind, body and spirit. According to East Asian energy philosophy, qi can be cultivated to support mental and emotional health, as well as physical health. Qigong activates the parasympathetic nervous system and shuts off the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) part of the autonomic nervous system, promoting a state of calm. In the short term, a regular qigong routine can provide an energy boost that lasts all day. Over time, it can cultivate a more grounded and balanced emotional energy that supports a healthy relationship with self and others.
The Calming Effects of Qi Gong
Qigong is a holistic, low impact exercise that can be done in any environment. Its gentle movements are based on natural body mechanics and align with the principles of Chinese medicine. The combination of posture, body movements, breath regulation and focused intention allows qigong to address the mind, body and spirit simultaneously. The practices are gentle enough to be done by anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
When the calming effects of qi are combined with mindfulness, a practice that incorporates awareness of the present moment and acceptance of difficult emotions, it becomes even more effective. One study found that people with depression who did a 10-week qigong course, along with regular therapy sessions and dietary changes, experienced improved outcomes on both their mood and psychological well-being.
Another study compared the effects of a qigong group with a control group on measures of self-efficacy, which is an individual’s confidence in his or her ability to perform a task and achieve a goal. The qigong group saw a significant improvement in this measure, whereas the control group did not.
A third randomized controlled trial compared the effects of a qigong class with a relaxation control on depression symptoms. The qigong group showed significantly greater improvements on the SCL-90, an instrument that measures depression. This suggests that qigong can help improve psychological well-being by directly targeting the neurobiology of depression and the immune system.
As more people are experiencing mental health challenges, a mind-body practice like qigong is an important addition to any wellness program. A regular qigong routine can reduce stress and anxiety, increase energy, help to prevent chronic disease, improve sleep and boost mood. It can also make it easier to spend more time with family and friends, which can enhance happiness.
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