25 Apr What’s the point of practicing Chi Kung (Qi Gong)
People often wonder why they should join one of my Chi Kung groups. We usually think about benefits. What will I get out of it? Why should I spend time on something I don’t fully understand?
A tricky matter indeed. On one hand, I need to make my answers smart and tangible, using simple language, focussing on results and guarantees. On the other hand, I also would like to emphasise the intangible, the spiritual motives and experiences.
There is no point
When asked, my first answer would be that there is no point. But that’s kind of a Zen way to see it. It helps the person asking, to let go of thoughts and beliefs. It’s to help to feel more, to get in touch with their body. That’s important. Sometimes, an answer that doesn’t seem to make sense can be the most helpful.
Chi kung has been practiced for thousands of years in China and other parts of Asia, and has been shown to have a range of benefits for physical, mental, emotional health, and plays a role in the spiritual side of life. It must have something valuable, or it wouldn’t have survived for so long.
In simple terms, it’s all about ‘just do it’. However, don’t expect significant benefits after just one hour of practice. We’d love for that to happen, but good things usually take time to develop.
“When you stand, you are like a tree.
You are growing from within.
Your feet, like roots, draw power from the earth.
Your body, like the trunk, is perfectly aligned.
You are unmoving, strong.
Your head is open to the heavens like the crown of the tree.
You rest calmly, the universe within your mind.”
Master Lam Kam Chuen
The key
The key to practicing chi kung is to be relaxed, attentive, and mindful, and to follow the natural rhythm of the breath and the body. By doing so, you can experience the point of Chi Kung, to harmonise the body, mind, and spirit, and to connect with the universal energy.
Benefits
If your mind is still curious and you start searching the web about Chi Kung, you’ll find it has many benefits. Some of these benefits are:
Reducing stress and anxiety
Enhancing immune system function
Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol
Improving cardiovascular and respiratory health
Relieving pain and inflammation
Increasing flexibility and balance
Strengthening muscles and bones
Boosting energy and stamina
Improving concentration and memory
Enhancing creativity and intuition
Promoting relaxation and sleep quality
Developing self-awareness and emotional regulation
Cultivating spiritual awareness and connection
Experience it yourself
Actually, there’s no obstacle preventing you from beginning your practice. The internet is full of resources.
For me, nothing beats a group of people together with a teacher in a room. This allows for personalised guidance, ensuring the exercises fit your needs and capabilities.
Much like a Sangha within Zen, the collective practice with like-minded people is an invaluable and nurturing experience. It’s truly a treasure in my life.
I’m genuinely puzzled as to why Chi Kung isn’t practised by billions of people…