As old as five thousand years, Qigong is one of the
key components of traditional Chinese medicine. The word ‘Qigong’
is pronounced as ‘chi kung’ and is made up of two Chinese
words ‘Qi’ which means air, breath or life force and ‘Gongo’
which means skill and self-discipline. Thus, the art of Qigong includes
meditation, relaxation and exercises that promote physical movement,
mind-body integration and breathing exercises. Qigong practitioners are
said to be awakened to the awareness of ‘qi’ sensations in
their body that they can guide with their mind and the masters of this
art can direct it to others for healing purposes by ensuring a free
flowing and well-balanced energy system in their bodies. Its regular
practice is said to cleanse the body of toxins, restore energy and
reduce stress and anxiety.
Taoist Yoga is almost similar to Qigong in its philosophy and also has
its origin in China. This ancient method uses stretching combined with
breathing and meditation techniques to smoothen out the energy flow.
Single exercises that can be practiced while seated, stretched out on
the ground or erect and harmonize the body by its movements and the mind
by breathing are essential parts of Taoist yoga. The combination of
movement and respiration varies with the weather and climatic conditions
and the disease that is being addressed specifically. Often performed
with relaxing music, the meditation techniques of Taoist yoga helps us
to feel lighter and helps overweight and depressed people and feel the
roots helping anorexic and confused patients. Breathing techniques ease
pain. This particular healing art also includes massages to enhance the
effects of cure and prescribed treatment.
