If You’ve Never Heard of Qigong, or You’re Not Quite Sure How it Works, Read on to Find out More…

Qigong (pronounced ‘chee-gong’) is an ancient Chinese practice that originated thousands of years ago within the framework of traditional Chinese medicine. It combines movement, breathing techniques, and focused awareness to cultivate and balance the body’s internal energy. The purpose of Qigong is to support overall health by harmonising the body, mind, and spirit.

The Meaning of Qigong

Qi Gong or Chi Kung  – what does it actually mean? 

Qigong is a Chinese term made up of two words:

‘Qi’ (气) = life energy, vital force, or breath

‘Gong’ (功) = skill developed through consistent practice

So Qi Gong literally means ‘cultivating energy through practice’ or ‘energy work.’

What Is Qi (气)?

In traditional Chinese philosophy and medicine, Qi is considered the vital life force that flows through everything – including the human body.

It moves through pathways called meridians, and when Qi flows smoothly, health is believed to be strong. When it’s blocked or weak, imbalance or illness may occur.

What Is Gong (功)?

‘Gong’ means cultivated skill – not something you do once, but something you develop over time. It implies:

Discipline, practice, and mastery through repetition.

So Qigong is not just random movement. It’s systematic training of body, breath, and awareness. It refers to a system of coordinated movement, breathing, and meditation designed to improve physical health, mental clarity, and energetic balance.

What is Qigong and What Does it Involve?

Qigong includes both mental and physical elements. Practitioners work with three key components: regulating the body through posture and movement, regulating the breath through specific breathing patterns, and regulating the mind through concentration and intention.

It comprehensively works to teach people methods that can help preserve their energy and consciously direct this energy with their bodies to maintain health and vitality.

There is a general aim to avoid energy depletion – Qigong helps to promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle and preserve essential energies. The ancient Chinese practice should be accompanied by positive lifestyle choices in order for individuals to get the most out of it. For example, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and rest, and regular physical activity can all help preserve our Qi.

Is Qigong the Same as Tai Chi?

Tai Chi began as a traditional martial art but gradually evolved into a practice widely used for health improvement and rehabilitation. When practiced for wellness rather than combat, tai chi is considered a type of Qigong because it integrates mindful movement, breath regulation, and focused awareness.

Tai Chi movements are slow and controlled, allowing participants to feel more grounded and connected to their bodies – this can positively influence both physical and mental health.

Try Our Qigong Exercise!

To experience Qigong for yourself, try Touch Tuina co-founder Mariana’s Qigong movement, designed to support two vital organs in TCM: the spleen and the liver.