As China has begun to open her cultural doors, we have been introduced to fascinating medical alternatives such as acupuncture and herbal remedies. Now another highly effective treatment system has arrived. It's called Qigong.
A five thousand year old healing modality which may soon change the face of healthcare for Westerners in the 21st century. On the surface, Qigong is an exercise that builds the immune system and strengthens the body through a series of slow yoga or tai chi like moves performed in synchrony with deep breathing rhythms.
Upon closer inspection, Qigong reveals itself to be a self healing tool using a moving form of meditation. The practitioners carry to an intimate understanding of the connection to nature, the universe, and other human beings.
Realizing this connection comes with understanding the essence of qi, the vital life force energy that animates the human organism. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, qi is derived from the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the environment in which we live.
Qigong is not limited to a self healing system, but is also a treatment method for healing others on a body, mind, and soul level. Qigong's deep breathing and gentle exercise techniques improve our health by vitalizing our tissues, organs, muscles, and bones relieving pain, eliminating stress, and strengthening our ability to emit qi for use in healing others.
In the past, Qigong techniques were kept secret and practiced only by martial artists and the wealthy elite of China. Since the Cultural Revolution however, scientific studies have shown Qigong to be a cure for diseases ranging from hypertension to cancer.
Over 80 million people practice this self care system each day in China. For the world's most populated country, Qigong seems to be the only financially viable healthcare option.
For Westerners who are searching for alternatives to conventional medicine, Qigong may be the key to a more complete system of healing. The result of regular Qigong practice is a peaceful mind, a healthy invigorated body, and a calm spirit that is more capable of dealing with daily stresses and disease.
This documentary will take you inside the fascinating healthcare system of Qigong. We will look through the eyes of history exploring its religious and cultural evolution, and then through the eyes of some contemporary Qigong masters. We will see how the current trend in searching for an effective low cost healthcare strategy is helping to create a place for Qigong in our future. A future that puts healthcare back in the hands of the individual.
To see an example of Qigong, visit my Wuji Swimming Dragon page.
