Ease joint pain with this ancient practice
More than once in House Calls, I've talked to you about tai chi chih—an ancient Chinese mind-body practice that can boost your immune system. Qigong (pronounced as "chee kung") is the overall term that is used for the energy-based practices that include Tai chi. Practitioners of qigong are part of a growing trend in which folks are looking for total wellness, not just firm abs or Popeye biceps.
And there's a growing body of research to match that trend. It's showing that mind-body practices have far-reaching health benefits such as relaxation, ease of movement, and stress relief.
Qigong is a series of slow movements with an emphasis on breathing that's in tune with those movements. Your interior biological mechanisms are targeted in this wellness practice as opposed to a sweat-inducing and muscle-building workout. (Not that I'm against those types of workouts!) By focusing on coordinating slow movements with breathing, you fall into a meditative-style state. This will also alleviate any inner feelings of stress and help you to feel mellow.
It's easy on the joints, so anyone can do it, regardless of fitness level. In fact, it can even alleviate the joint pain that has kept your from moving any more than you have to.
There's also the anecdotal evidence offered by practitioners. Relief for muscle aches and pains, improved breathing by deepening one's breath and increases in energy levels are just some of the benefits reported by folks who practice it.
Some report that it has eased their rheumatoid arthritis, given them a greater sense of peace and fulfillment—and has even provided them with better sleep. (Please see the above House Calls.) You don't need any special equipment to practice qigong, so you can't use the "I don't have the proper shoes" or "I need a new exercise outfit" excuse.
For a listing of local Qigong teachers and therapists, go to www.qigonginstitute.org and check the directory. It will provide a breakdown by state.
