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The practice of qigong is very common with more than 3000 different schools around the world teaching this alternative technique.

Qigong is based on the premise that humans have an energy field around them called 'qi'. It is also called the aura or prana in yoga, and acts as a life force to the body.

Attitudes to qigong vary quite a lot. Most practitioners view qigong as a set of breathing methods that help people to relax and be at ease with themselves. Qigong has been around for many centuries in China and it is a very popular practice there even today. It has now spread to western societies where people are learning more and more about eastern philosophies and practices such as qigong.

Qi (pronounced Chi) literally means "life energy", is the animating power that permeates the universe and all living things; no life could exist without and has the power to heal the body and mind.

Gong means "working with". Thus, Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) means "working with the energy of life", enhancing the Qi/Chi, and learning how to release and balance the flow of Qi/Chi evenly throughout energy pathways called meridians which run through every part of the body. By increasing the Qi/Chi through coordinating movement with breathing, Qigong/Chi Kung improves health and the harmony of mind, body and spirit.

Chinese traditional qigong was the first real form of qigong. Over the years, other types evolved such as Taoist, Buddhist, Neo-Confucian, Chinese medicine, Confucian, and through martial arts.

Scientific research have been carried to help analyze the efficacy of qigong. It is noted that it does act as a form of relaxation and tranquility for people and is an excellent form of exercise as it promotes good breathing techniques and healthy eating.

It is not uncommon nowadays for universities to offer courses in qigong and one can obtain their Bachelors or even Masters in the subject.

Qigong is practised globally and is incorporated into many different practices such as martial arts and meditation as these involve good and correct breathing techniques. Since the late eighties, qigong has been recognized in the Chinese health system in hospitals throughout the country and is available on the Chinese National Health Plan.

Although qigong is considered a natural treatment, it is still lacking scientific research to prove its benefits. Qigong is usually associated with spirituality because of its history with different religions. Many of the practices taught are from strict masters that come from an extensive background in qigong. One usually practices qigong with a martial art in order for him or her to be able to control their breathing whilst exercising as this is considered the key.

Qigong should not be seen as a replacement for conventional methods and it is always advised to speak to your local doctor or physician before undertaking any kind of treatment. He or she can give you advice and provide further information. More information on this subject can also be found on the supplied links below.

A Library Of Links: 

The Menopause & Black Cohosh Center
The latest information on how to ease Menopause symptoms.

Natural Bloom
Holistic health, yoga, reiki, reflexology, aromatherapy, etc.

Body Mind Spirit Directory
Holistic Health, Alternative Medicine, Natural Healing.

Feng Shui Living
Consultant - Sydney & Brisbane, NSW & Qld.

Everything Feng Shui
Products, Forum & Consultant.

Pygmy Possum
for every mind, body and spirit.

Herbal Medicine and Spirit Healing
the wise woman way - Susun Weed.

The Art of Healing
Alternative Medicine Magazine Byron Bay.

Yoga Holidays in France
Yoga Retreats and Walking Holidays at La Buissiere.

Yoga retreats and holidays
A listing of yoga holidays and yoga retreats.

Yoga Ireland
A directory of teachers, events and courses in Ireland.

Gaia Visions
Yoga retreats in Vassilikos peninsula, Greece.

Byron Bay Yoga Australia
Yoga vacations and retreats.

Resonate Yoga, Melbourne

Acupuncture Works
Japanese Acupuncture in Epping, NSW.

Flower Essences and Vibrational Essences

Alternative Healing Choices
Guide to holistic, alternative and natural medicine.

Soular Energy
Holistic Health Enterprises.

Budoshin Ju-Jitsu Yudanshakai
International Home of Budoshin Ju-Jitsu. Martial Art.

The Spirit Of Life
Yoga, walking and healing retreats hoildays in Greece.