About Qigong
Qigong is a traditional Chinese practice that promotes health, fitness, and overall well-being through gentle, mindful movement. It combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused awareness to support both body and mind.
The emphasis is on relaxation and the repetition of slow, flowing motions. These energising movements are designed to encourage the smooth circulation of energy—or Qi—throughout the body. Practised regularly, Qigong can improve spinal mobility, flexibility, posture, and balance. I also include exercises that may ease the symptoms of arthritis or joint stiffness.
Qigong has been practised for centuries across China, where people of all ages gather in parks and open spaces to move together as part of their daily routine. It’s a deeply rooted tradition that continues to support health and community.
The term Tai Chi is often used as a catch-all to include both Tai Chi and Qigong. While Tai Chi is a martial art with movements originally derived from self-defence techniques, Qigong is broader in scope and more directly focused on health and healing.
Tai Chi is typically practised as a form—a set sequence of postures that flow smoothly from one to the next. Depending on the style, a full form may take between 6 and 20 minutes to complete and often takes many months to learn thoroughly.
In contrast, Qigong is more accessible and easier to pick up. It doesn’t rely on martial applications and offers a wide variety of simple, effective movements that are suitable for all levels, including beginners.
In class, we explore how Qigong supports relaxation, posture, and everyday wellbeing. We also develop a mindful, body-aware approach that helps you tune into your own energy, breath, and physical alignment.
Each week, we practise sequences from Shibashi sets 1, 2, and 3. I’ll soon be introducing Shibashi 8, which offers a fresh and engaging medley of movements drawn from earlier sets. In addition, we include a variety of standalone Qigong exercises and short forms, each easy to learn and enjoyable to repeat.
Often, I choose a themed selection of movements—for example, exercises that work progressively from head to toe, or that target specific areas like the spine, joints, lungs, digestion, or energy levels. These may include stretches, self-massage, breathing techniques, and movements that support circulation and organ health.
I explain the principles behind each exercise, along with its specific health benefits. Many of these benefits are now supported by research, including:
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Improved balance, flexibility, and joint health
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Reduced stress, anxiety, and tension
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Increased energy and stamina
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Better sleep and emotional resilience
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Relief from chronic pain
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Enhanced immune and respiratory function
Emsworth Qigong 