Qigong can be described as a mind-body-spirit practice that improves one's mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing technique, self-massage, sound, and focused intent. There are likely thousands of qigong styles, schools, traditions, forms, and lineages, each with practical applications and different theories about Qi (“subtle breath” or “vital energy”) and Gong (“skill cultivated through steady practice”). The mission of the National Qigong Association is to help each individual find a path that best supports their personal goals, and to evolve this amazing energetic science.
Qigong opens the flow of energy in meridians used in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. It enhances our ability to feel the Life Force underlying the physical world and to deepen our communication with it. Physically, slow gentle qigong movements warm tendons, ligaments, and muscles; tonify vital organs and connective tissue; and promote circulation of body fluids (blood, synovial, lymph). Thousands of studies have shown qigong effective in helping to heal life challenges ranging from high blood pressure and chronic illness to emotional frustration, mental stress, and spiritual crisis.
Qigong is a general term used to describe a wide variety of training paths, which all have intrinsic benefits, but differ in areas focus, intention, and methodology. Under the umbrella of Qigong, there are two greater paths: the primary of personal cultivation and the secondary of clinical application.
Within the larger path of Personal Cultivation, there are a number of different paths of cultivation:
Due to the breadth and richness of the many applications of the words “medical” and “medicine” in the Qigong context, the NQA has consciously removed the term "Medical Qigong" from its descriptions above. The definition of “Medical Qigong” ranges from clinically-oriented Qigong with a certified professional to a personal practice of Qigong for health maximization or a medical challenge. However, the NQA recognizes and supports those who use the term "Medical Qigong" in honoring their distinct tradition or understanding of the phrase.
If there is not an instructor available in your area, please keep in mind that many teachers provide distance learning opportunities. Many of the teachers listed also travel to give workshops in many regions of the country.
We Suggest the Following Options:
The National Qigong Association does not use nor recognize the terms Master and Grandmaster.
Five Treasures DVD
Discover Qigong for yourself and your friends.
Simple and inspirational.
What is Qigong? by the National Qigong Association
is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 Unported License.
Inquiries for permissions beyond the scope of this license may be made by contacting us.