Author: Weng
Conference/Journal: 2nd World Congress Qigong
Date published: 1998
Other:
Pages: 50 , Word Count: 292
Qigong (Ch'i-kung), is a system of energy restoring exercises that emphasizes the harmonious integration of the total human body with the universe. Qigong is an art and science that protects and strengthens the health and wellness of the practitioner. Taiji (tai-chi) Qigong is a unique system of Qigong that is based upon the exercise movements of Taijiquan (T’ai-chi-ch’uan). The exercises of Taiji Qigong give the practitioner additional benefits in comparison to the benefits enjoyed by those who practice other systems of Qigong. These additional benefits are gained through the movement exercises of Taiji, and include improved self-defense capabilities and better thinking patterns.
Taiji movement exercises effectively express the Taoist principles of nonresistance, cycling and continuity, polarity and balance. Non-resistance is the principle of not opposing a force encountered in daily life, but rather, accepting and incorporating the force into an individual's thoughts and actions, thus producing eventual success. Cycling and continuity refers to the notion that the universe moves in a rhythmic continuing cycle of death and re-birth that is connected from the end back to the beginning. The principles of polarity and balance refer to the Taoist concept of a universe that is divided into the two opposing forces of yin and yang. The yin and yang forces compete against each other for influence in the universe. Balance describes the relationship between the forces of yin and yang as they move towards a stable and harmonious coexistence.
Understanding the Taoist principles expressed through the movements of Taiji gives the practitioners self-defense capabilities, removes the mental and physical barriers to health and wellness, and increases sensitivity to the holistic nature of the universe. The Taiji system of Qigong a dedicated practitioner to develop a lifestyle in harmony with the universe.