Tai Qi & Qigong As Regenerative Exercise
We all know that the benefits of exercise abound, but like most things that benefit us, being consistent and finding something you love to do is key. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) regenerative exercise is an important pillar of health. Qigong and Tai qi practices are often held in public places for anyone to join and are done to help preserve health and build energy.
This year I started a two year Tai qi teacher training with the goal of incorporating more Tai qi and Qigong into my exercise routine in addition to integrating it into my patient care plans. TCM views practices of movement such as Tai qi and Qigong as a way to not only build resources, increase energy, and build resilience, but also to correct qi movement, which we can think of as energy and blood flow, after we’ve dealt with an illness, injury, or change to our capabilities. It can be a gentle way to encourage muscle engagement, increase circulation, and serve as a moving meditation.
You might be wondering, is there a difference between Tai qi and Qigong? There is some debate about this. Both practices require concentration, focus, movement and steady breath.I have heard Qigong described as the Grandmother of Tai qi. Often involving slower, gentler movements that may be used as warm up exercises for some Tai qi forms. Classic Qigong exercises include pouring weight from side to side or rotation of certain joints to invite qi into different areas of the body. All Tai qi practices are based in martial arts. The movements are often slowed punches and blocks that can be viewed as training for combat or self-defense.
What I love about Tai qi and Qi gong is their adaptability. There are many different traditions and forms that have been handed down over the years and adapted by the individual leading the training. Many modern teachers have adapted programs for elderly patients, cancer patients, and those with great mobility limitations.It is also a practice that is meant to fill your cup, rather than drain it. Many of us, myself included, love the flood of circulation we get from a high intensity exercise and the release of happy endorphins it brings, but having a balance to those high intensity days is really important for our wellness.
As a moving meditation, I also find these practices ideal for those who want the benefits of a meditation practice but find seated meditation difficult. Sometimes when our thoughts are overwhelming, having a movement practice gives the brain just enough to focus on so that we can become more attuned to our bodies and physical movement than the anxious thoughts in our mind.
If you haven’t tried Tai qi or Qigong I recommend checking it out, and watching for others practicing in the parks as the weather warms! There are classes held at the Y, at local martial arts studios, and there are even some good practices on Youtube. Start with just a few minutes a day and see if connecting with your body in this way helps improve your energy and mood. As I learn more over the next few years I hope to share more about how these practices can benefit us all.
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