What is Qigong?
Qigong (pronounced “Chee-Gung”) is an ancient Chinese healing tradition combining meditation, breathing, movement, and relaxation exercises. In China it is taught and used as both a spiritual practice and as a therapeutic intervention for a variety of acute as well as chronic conditions.
Can Qigong help people with cancer?
Yes. Studies have shown that qigong can improve sleep, increase relaxation, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve quality of life. Studies have also shown that it can improve balance, reduce the number of falls, and enhance well-being in elderly patients. Many people with cancer are also now exploring the many benefits of this ancient healing tradition as an adjunct to their conventional care.
Qigong alone is not a proven treatment for cancer, nor is it known to affect the biology of the disease or an individual’s outcome. It should not be used as a substitute for conventional care.
How does Qigong work?
Qigong (also sometimes spelled Chi Kung) involves meditative visualizations coordinated with controlled breathing and various physical postures, movements, and sounds. It is based on the same five-element system that underlies the practice of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. Qigong believes that the body has a vital energy known as “Qi” (or Chi), which is generated and maintained by the breath. This vital energy is regarded as being essential to all physiologic processes, and indeed to life itself. “Gong” means effort applied to a discipline. Qigong, therefore, means "breath work," or the art of managing one's vital energy to achieve and maintain good health, enhance energy and stamina, and promote longevity.
These are perhaps several thousand different styles and schools of qigong that have developed from different lineages of Chinese teachers. Patients learn specific Qigong breathing, movement, and visualization exercises from a qualified teacher, and can begin to apply them immediately in their daily health routine. The exercises can be practiced independently or in a group.
Qigong practitioners are usually trained by individual teachers, who may or may not officially authorize them to teach or work with others. However, there is no formal government licensing procedure for Qigong practitioners. It is always wise to ask practitioners about their credentials and training before working with them.
Are there any risks or complications associated with Qigong?
Generally, no. Qigong is safe, and is not thought to have any negative side effects or complications. Many Qigong exercises can be practiced sitting in a chair or even lying on a bed. Some are practiced in the standing position, however, and others involve deep breathing. Therefore, patients who are experiencing physical weakness or unsteady balance should use caution when performing the exercises upright. Others who have respiratory problems may also have difficulty with some of the deep breathing exercises.
Qigong is most effective when the person leading you through the process has adequate and proper training and experience in its techniques. As with other complementary therapies, consult your physician for more information.
How can I find a qualified Qigong practitioner?
It is important to select a practitioner who is qualified, experienced, and trustworthy. Click here to learn more about how to do this.