In this article, discover the benefits of Qi Gong, an inner journey for the health of body, heart and mind.
Holistic well-being, where the aim is to balance body, mind and heart, is a fundamental concept in ancient Eastern practices. Among these practices, Qi Gong stands out for its ability to harmonize the body’s vital energy, “Qi”, through slow movements, controlled breathing and deep mental concentration.
The foundations of Qi Gong and its benefits
Originating in the Chinese tradition, Qi Gong is a practice that dates back thousands of years. It combines gentle exercises, body postures, breathing techniques and meditation to improve physical, mental and emotional health.
The term “Qi” means vital energy, and “Gong” means mastery or work. Thus, Qi Gong translates as the art of cultivating and strengthening internal energy and health at all levels, in an autonomous, effective and easy-to-do way, regardless of our physical condition or health.
One of the main advantages of Qi Gong is its holistic approach to health. It aims to reinforce balance and harmony between the different dimensions of our being: the body, the heart (or emotions), and the mind. Each aspect is interconnected.
When one is out of balance, it can affect the others. For example, prolonged emotional tension can lead to physical ailments, while poor posture can affect morale and emotional balance.
The benefits of Qi-Gong for the body
The physical benefits of Qi Gong are extensive and well-documented. Regular practice improves flexibility, coordination, muscle strength and posture. The slow, controlled movements of Qi Gong strengthen joints, improve balance and reduce the risk of injury, particularly in the elderly.
What’s more, by stimulating the circulation of Qi, this practice helps to balance the functions of the internal organs, supporting the immune system and improving digestion, breathing and blood circulation.
A regular Qi Gong session can also help reduce chronic pain, particularly in the back, shoulders or knees, thanks to better fluidity of movement and more aligned posture.
The benefits of Qi-Gong for the heart (emotions)
Qi Gong is not just about physical well-being. It also works on an emotional level. Deep breathing exercises combined with meditative movements help to calm the nervous system and reduce stress levels. People who practice Qi Gong regularly often report reduced anxiety and a greater ability to manage stressful situations.
The heart, symbol of the emotions in Eastern tradition, is a key element in Qi Gong practice. By calming thoughts and focusing attention, the practice helps release stagnant or repressed emotions, facilitating healthier self-expression. This leads to better emotional management, fostering a more stable, joyful and balanced state of mind.
The benefits of Qi-Gong for the mind
Meditation is another pillar of Qi Gong. Every movement is performed with full attention and awareness, helping to anchor the mind in the present moment. Intrusive thoughts, often a source of anxiety or unease, are thus reduced, and the mind becomes calmer and clearer.
Qi Gong can also be seen as a form of meditation in movement, where breath, body and mind are synchronized. Regular practice develops concentration, strengthens intuition and improves mental clarity. Over time, this discipline enables you to better understand your thoughts and behavior patterns, and to act with greater discernment in everyday life.
By Lise Lapointe, Qi Gong teacher.
Discover the next trip accompanied by Lise Lapointe.
