What is Qigong?
Cultivation of vitality through mindful practice
Qigong is a gentle practice that combines slow movement, breathing, and focused attention to support the body’s natural balance and vitality. Originating in China thousands of years ago, Qigong was developed as a way to maintain health, prevent illness, and promote longevity.
Unlike high-impact exercise, Qigong is soft, accessible, and adaptable for all ages and fitness levels. Movements are slow and intentional, making it especially suitable for people seeking a mindful, low-stress way to stay active.
The word Qigong is made up of two Chinese concepts. Qi (often translated as “energy”) refers to the vital force that animates all living things. In practical terms, it can be understood as the body’s natural vitality—the same life force expressed through breath, circulation, warmth, and nervous system activity.
Gong means skill, practice, or cultivation. Together, Qigong means the cultivation of vitality through mindful practice. By gently coordinating movement, breath, and attention, Qigong helps support the smooth flow of energy in the body, allowing physical, mental, and emotional systems to function more harmoniously.
There are many version of Qigong. The one I teach and I'm familiar with is the 18 Tai Chi Qigong Exercises and 5 Element Qigong as taught by my teachers Matthew Rochford and Joe Salmon at Tai Chi Nation in the UK.