After all, what is Qigong?

Qigong is an ancient Chinese health practice which started thousands of years ago. After years of being hidden, Qigong became available to the general public in China beginning in late 1970s and spread widely during the 1980s and 90s. Since then, Qigong has become gradually known in the west.

The word Qigong is a direct translation of two Chinese characters: Qi (?) and Gong (?). 'Qi' (pronounced 'chee') means energy, especially our vital life energy which we need for all life activities. 'Gong' means skills or techniques which are developed through a lengthy practice. So the word 'Qigong' means energy working skills gained through a long-standing self practice.

This explanation of Qigong is very basic. Since Qigong is related to energy and energy is related to everything we do in life, there are many ways to define Qigong. After all, each of us is living our lives with Qigong involved, with or without us consciously knowing it.

The highest principle of Qigong is 'to be natural'. In general, the more we follow the natural laws, the more we are in harmony with our environment, and the more peaceful and healthier life we live.

Our daily lives are overflowing with choices, activities and situations which are not in harmony with the natural laws. If you stay in the sun long enough you get sunburned. This reality is part of the natural laws. In a larger context, the more we immerse ourselves in an unhealthy environment (not in harmony with the natural laws) the more we get to experience the products of this lack of harmony, including illness, low energy, and unhappiness.

Understanding the principle of being 'natural' is a necessary foundation for a healthier life, which Qigong brings us. Having an healthier life is the motivation which brings most people to Qigong. A helpful thing to do whenever you can is to follow what the ancient Chinese did and observe nature more.

For example, the Earth rotates as it revolves around the sun, giving us days and nights. Daytime is a natural time for people to be active, night time is the time for us to rest and recharge. If we follow a schedule which runs against this natural law, such as being up and active during the night, and sleeping during the day, our inner Qi system will be disturbed from its normal condition. If this pattern continues for a long period of time, we will create a greater opportunity for ill-health. We will be creating irregular energy circulation which will lead to Qi blockages.

The Sun is a great example of being natural. The Sun shines everyday on us. It shines no matter what. It shines on rich people and poor people alike. It shines on prominent and everyday people. The Sun shines, it does not judge. The Sun gives its light and energy without expectation for getting anything back.

If we think about ourselves, are we able to behave naturally like the sun? Are we able to give unconditionally all the time, without judgment? Do we always give and provide without expecting to get anything back? Probably not. In our human state of development most of us are struggling to learn certain of life's lessons which means that for some or most of our days we are not following the natural laws. Our state of consciousness is a part of our reality. And we will therefore bring to our reality the results of not following the natural laws, which is to create Qi blockages.

Our Qi likes being natural. When we follow natural rules, our Qi is in harmony and is in its best, healthiest state. We feel healthy and happy. So although Qigong training can start in many ways, the highest and ultimate principle is always to follow the deeply interconnected laws of nature.

As each of us learns more about ourselves through Qigong practice, we will gain a deeper understanding of what nature--and the world--is all about. As our understanding deepens we will find it easier to choose living a healthier and happier life.

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