This report is concerned with the introduction and application of Qigong Yangsheng, developed by Prof. Jiao Guorui, as a therapeutic measure in Germany. Since we understand health in a comprehensive sense , examples for the application of Qigong Yangsheng in health education, preventive medicine, therapy of chronic diseases as well as in schools, on the job and among artists will be given.
Qigong, as a precious treasure of Chinese culture, was known and practiced to a substantial extent in Germany about 15 years ago. Skepticism has been fairly strong among medical professionals concerning the methods and effects of Qigong. We appreciate these skepticism thus it asks for a scientific approach, seriousness and a good education.
I will emphasize on two characteristics of Qigong Yangsheng-comprehensiveness and flexibility. Comprehensiveness means that with every method and even with every single exercise the practitioner can reach a comprehensive effect on all these functions, on the whole system of zangfu, jingluo,as well as on psychic and mental functions. At least in Germany there is a trend to offer a specific method for every kind of disorder or disease; one method against overweight, another method against headache, another for the stomach, another for the kidney. Even so it is obvious that each method has its specific characteristics and point of main effort, the essential of Qigong Yangsheng is to nourish and cultivate the whole. Qigong Yangsheng cuts the ground from under the disorder. Flexibility means, that every method and even every single exercise certain aspects (jing, dong, nei,wai,breathing method, yinian) can be practiced and should be practiced according to the practitioner' s needs.
Examples for the application of Qigong Yangsheng:
1. Treatment of bronchial asthma (clinical study by Ingrid Reuther,physician)
The study investigates the value of Qigong Yangsheng as a complementary therapeutic measure to treat asthma patients by objective measurable effects. Thirty patients suffering at varying degrees of severity with their illness were taught, medically supervised, Qigong Yangsheng (15 postures of Taiji-Qigong, taiji shiwushi). They were asked to exercise independently, if possible on a daily basis, and to keep a diary of their symptoms for half a year including peakflow measurements three times daily, use of medication, frequency and length of exercise as well as five asthma relevant symptoms (sleeping, through the night, coughing, expectoration, dyspnea and general well-being). The concept of this study was based on a single-case-research-design with baseline, one teaching unit, omission of teaching and refresher's course. After one year, a follow-up study was done at the same time of year as the baseline phase consisting of another four-week measuring phase.
The study showed subjective effects (deep breathing, less fear) as well as objective effects proved to be statistically significant (decrease of peak-flow variability, less days unable to work, less drugs needed).
2. Qigong Yangsheng in school-teaching (by Hofmann, teacher)
Generally speaking, in German schools there is no balance between brain-work and physical culture. Practicing Qigong Yangsheng for a short time during lessons has turned out to reduce stress and as well as improve concentration and efficiency. The effects can be seen for example in specimens of writing.
3. Qigong Yangsheng in performing arts (by Helene Mohler and Edith de Bruyn)
The practice of Qigong Yangsheng has turned out to be an important measure to improve performing arts, such as singing, playing instruments and drama. This is due to its strong influence on voice production, vocal capacity, breathing capacity, coordination of movement, state of relaxation -tension and especially on creativeness.
An survey of transferability and acceptance of Qigong in the medical profession will complete this report.
