Basic Concepts of Chi Kung


Chi Kung (Qigong) basic concepts:

Chi (Qi), pronounced as “chee”, is the vital energy of life or life force that sustains our existence. Since chi is energy, it is vital to health and healing.

1. Chi can be felt and experienced but not be seen easily. How we think, how we live, what we do and what we eat will affect our chi as all these activities involve energy transfer.

2. Chi can be cultivated and preserved through conscious practice and effort. Kung(gong) means cultivating our ability/effort to build and revitalize.

3. Chi Kung (Qigong) is an ancient Chinese exercise working with our vital energy through conscious effort. It dates back more than 3,000 years as chi was first mentioned in the book of I-Ching. It involves the coordination of breathing, gentle and graceful body movements and meditative practices that calm one’s body, mind and spirit. Chi Kung practice can stimulate and enhance our hidden human energy capacity.

4. One will gain better health and even longevity through absorbing more oxygen, improving circulation throughout the body including internal organs, enhancing both physical and mental health and strengthening the immune system. It helps to regulate and balance the body’s systems. As a result, stress will be relieved and wellness will be achieved. In the long run, one will obtain “chi” that vitalizes oneself. These benefits are possible through our life commitment and diligent daily practice of Chi Kung.

5. Chi can be understood or explained as bioelectricity and chi flow through the same meridian lines where all the acupuncture points lie. The ultimate goal of Chi Kung is harmonious transformation of body, mind and spirit in unison with universal energy. Key success relies on our clarity, focus, perseverance, openness, relaxation and balance.

6. There are over a thousand types and styles of Chi Kung in general and they are classified in different schools. Some require no movements, some require standing, lying down or sitting still or a combination of these.

7. Common key features for Chi Kung practice:

  • concentration and relaxation of body and mind and focusing on breathing,
  • quiet the mind and relax the body totally before we start
  • breathing techniques need to be mastered appropriately and have to follow the flow as suggested
  • practice is preferred in a quiet environment with fresh air but not too windy or cold
  • avoid sudden or loud noises during practice and turn off phones/cell phones, TV etc.
  • avoid bright lighting that irritates one’s vision
  • preferably practice on an empty stomach or before meals
  • practice daily and regularly with discipline: morning or night doesn’t matter
  • dress warm, wear loose fitting clothing and flat shoes

An explanation about why Chi Kung has to start from the head- It is because it is important to have our frame aligned –as a healthy spine is a basic requirement. 

In addition:

1. The neck C1-C7 cervical vertebrae have to activate the nerve and blood flow through our brain, nose, ear, throat and eyes.

2. The mid back section (thoracic) of our body, T1-T12, 12 thoracic vertebrae drives the circulation in our heart, lungs, liver, pancreas and gall bladder.
3. The lower mid body (lumbar) L1-L5 5 lumbar vertebrae drives the circulation in our stomach, kidney and large intestine.
4. The sacral area S1-S5, 5 vertebrae ill drives the circulation of the small intestine and urinary tract, four limbs, bones, tendon and muscles.
The spine is like a conductor, giving commands and bringing energy and power to every system in the body.

The reason why chi kung can support self healing- It is because it is based on the fact that “our spirit is in unison and our mind is focus”. When we are in that state, we are fully charged with energy and which is like the source of fuel for any engine. However, if you want long lasting results and a healthy body, one has to work hard to upkeep it (that is, non stop practice).


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