• Yang Sheng Magazine - New Online Journal 
  Formerly known as Qi Dao, Yang Sheng, or nourishing life practices, is a new E-magazine for all practitioners of mind-body exercises, health/happiness seekers, and spiritual cultivators. It promotes philosophy and methods of self-healing, positive mind and health preservation, and shares knowledge and experiences in self-healing, positive outlooks, and their applications in everyday life. It also includes abstracts of the most recent research on mind-body medicine, articles on the practice of Qigong, book reviews, food as medicine, and current events in Qigong, Tai Chi, and Energy Medicine. Read Yang Sheng Vol 1, No. 1 . For more information on the first issue and to subscribe to the magazine, see the Yang Sheng home page . This magazine may be freely shared.

• ISSSEEM 21st Annual Conference - June 24-27
  The International Society for the Study of Subtle Energies and Energy Medicine (ISSSEEM) is an interdisciplinary organization for the study of the basic sciences and medical and therapeutic applications of subtle energies. ISSSEEM was organized for the purpose of improving human health and welfare through the advancement of education, practice, training, and research in the emerging field of subtle energies and energy medicine. The 21st Annual Conference will be held in Westminster, Colorado.

• Tai Chi May Benefit Patients with Fibromyalgia
  People with fibromyalgia may benefit from practicing Tai Chi, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by muscle pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. People with fibromyalgia have chronic widespread pain, as well as "tender points" on areas of the body, which hurt when slight pressure is applied. The National Institutes of Health website contains a description of the research, a transcript of an interview with the director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) discussing the research, and a link to download an MP3 file of the interview. More .

• Qi Gong: mindful movement made in China
  NEW YORK (Reuters Life!) – If yoga is all the rage, can Qigong be far behind? Sometimes called Chinese yoga, Qigong is a mind-body practice that melds slow graceful movements, mental focus and deep abdominal breathing to boost and balance a person's vital energy, or "qi". As China's star rises in the west, devotees believe this 5,000-year-old energy cultivation system is poised to become the new kid on the block among rat racers hungry for a more serene form of fitness. More .

• NCCAM Third Strategic Plan: 2011–2015
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health (Department of Health and Human Resources) released its third strategic plan, Exploring the Science of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Third Strategic Plan 2011–2015. The plan presents a series of goals and objectives to guide NCCAM in determining priorities for future research in complementary and alternative medicine. The number one objective is to advance research on mind/body practices. A list of primary CAM mind and body Interventions (including Qigong, Tai Chi, meditation, and breath practices) can be found in a list towards the top of the strategic plan web page.

• 1.3 sq km Tai Chi City to be built in Huairou, Beijing
  (People's Daily Online) According to actor Jet Li, Tai Chi City is being built to promote China's Tai Chi culture. Read the article.

• Yoga's Spiritual Balance May Boost Health
  (HealthDay News) -- Yoga may be becoming more of a mainstream approach to Americans' health woes. People have been practicing yoga for millennia to improve their strength, serenity and wellness, but its roots in ancient Indian philosophy have kept the exercise discipline firmly within the realm of alternative medicine. However, a growing body of scientific evidence is building the case that the spiritual balance created by yoga provides proven health benefit. More.

• Doctors testing acupuncture as pain treatment on medical flights
  (Stars and Stripes): RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany — For the first time, doctors are testing acupuncture to treat injured troops in transit from Ramstein to the States...Can this can be substituted in place of habit-forming medication or other medications with side effects? It’s a feasibility study. More.

• In the News: The Placebo Effect
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine has published new findings on the effect of Placebo. Read In the News: The Placebo Effect.

• Mayo Clinic study finds yoga improves employee health 
  This pilot study suggests that a yoga-based, comprehensive wellness program is both feasible and efficacious in creating positive, short-term improvements in multiple domains of health and wellness for a population of employees. Read the abstract.

• Placebo without deception superior to no treatment
  In a randomized controlled trial (the gold standard of western medical research), placebos administered openly were found to be superior to no treatment, with the same amount of patient-provider interaction, for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Read the abstract .

• Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ Hits New Milestone
  The Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ has surpassed 6000 abstracts. Beginning about 1980, extensive clinical and experimental research on medical applications of Qigong was carried out by scientists in China. Most of these studies were reported only at international conferences, and only a few were published because suitable scientific journals are not available in China. Started in 1984 by Qigong Institute Founder Dr. Ken Sancier, the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ is a compilation of references to most of these studies as well as to reports in scientific journals, books and Medline. The Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ provides a record in English of the vast amount of research on Qigong from China as well from other countries. It contains references not only to Qigong but also to other energy-based research, therapies, clinical trials, and practices from international conferences, scientific publications, The National Library of Medicine and PubMed. While the emphasis is on scientific reports, reviews are provided in some cases. Read the 6000th abstract: Violet laser acupuncture-part 1: effects on brain circulation .

• Tai Chi found effective against cognitive dysfunction from aging
  A year-long study by researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong found that Tai Chi helps with cognitive dysfunction caused by aging. Read the abstract.

• Government of Signapore launches National Qigong Health Program
  Singapore's Health Promotion Board (HPB) is the country's main driver for national health promotion and disease prevention programmes. Its goal is to increase the quality and years of healthy life and prevent illness, disability and premature death. HPB implements programmes that reach out to the population, specifically children, adults and the elderly. Getting Started on Qigong Health is a brochure for people starting out with Qigong that includes illustrations of basic Qigong practices. National Health Qigong Programme Launch shows large numbers of citizens practicing Qigong during the launch of the program.

• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy as effective as drugs for recurrent depression
  Researchers at the Toronto Centre for Addiction and Mental Health have found that "For depressed patients achieving stable or unstable clinical remission, MBCT offers protection against relapse/recurrence on a par with that of maintenance antidepressant pharmacotherapy." Read the abstract.

• U.S. Government releases new informational video on Tai Chi 
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) in the National Institutes of Health, which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services, has created a new informational video called Tai Chi and Qi Gong for Health and Well Being. This video is an educational tool that features tai chi and qi gong as activities to enhance wellness. You can also download this video to your computer or portable media player. Also see the NCCAM background information on Tai Chi.

• Tai Chi appears to be good for you in just about every way - U.S. News & World Report
  U.S. News & World Report states that Tai Chi, "the most famous branch of Qigong," has been linked to health benefits for everyone from children to seniors. It cites benefits for breast cancer patients, people in wheelchairs, treating sleep problems, Parkinson's sufferers, flexibility and strength, cariovascular fitness, balance, bone density, and warding off knee pain. Read the article.

• Best spiritual fiction of 2010 award given to World Tai Chi and Qigong Day Founder Bill Douglas 
  Spiritual Enlightenment Magazine says "2012 The Awakening," by WTCQD's founder, explores cutting edge research on Tai Chi, mind-body sciences, and its heroine is a Tai Chi and Qigong master." Preview or order 2012 The Awakening.

• Acupuncture and Mind-Body practices effective for side-effects of cancer treatment
  Reseachers at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons report that "the most recent research demonstrates that acupuncture is safe, tolerable and effective for a range of side effects resulting from conventional cancer treatments." Read the abstract. Researchers at the Mind-Body Medicine Research Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University report that "a growing number of well-designed studies provide convincing evidence that mind-body techniques are beneficial adjuncts to cancer treatment. The evidence is sufficient to recommend further investigation and adoption of these techniques in mainstream oncology care." Read the abstract.

• Acupuncture's effect 'isn't just psychological'
  Acupuncture works directly on the brain to reduce the amount of pain we feel, MRI scans indicate. Researchers at the Department of Complementary and Integrative Medicine at University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany believe their study shows that acupuncture does not only work on a psychological level - as a 'placebo' - but that is also has a direct 'dampening' effect on the brain's pain processing centres. Read the article.

• Cellular health and longevity is linked to meditation
  Positive psychological changes that occur during meditation training are associated with greater telomerase activity, according to researchers at UC Davis, and the University of California, San Francisco. The study is the first to link positive well-being to higher telomerase, an enzyme important for the long-term health of cells in the body. The effect appears to be attributable to psychological changes that increase a person's ability to cope with stress and maintain feelings of well-being. Read the article.

• Tai Chi relieves symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia
  Researchers at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Medicine have found that patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia felt better and moved more easily after taking twice-weekly classes in Tai Chi. Practicing Tai Chi "reduced pain, stiffness and fatigue, and improved their balance." Read the article.Watch a short YouTube video.

• New device stimulates acupoints using ultrasound
  Researchers at the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Japan have created a device which uses ultrasound to stimulate acupuncture points as well as needles. Read the abstract.

• New U.S. National Prevention and Health Promotion Strategy
  Three of the top four purposes of the National Prevention and Health Promotion Council established under the Obama-Pelosi healthcare overhaul explicitly reference "integrative health care." That Council has issued its "Draft Framework" for a "National Prevention and Health Promotion Strategy." December 5, 2010 is the last day forsubmitting input. The National Prevention Strategy represents a historic opportunity to bring prevention and wellness to the forefront of the national conversation on health. A focus on prevention will offer an opportunity to not only improve the health of Americans, but also help to reduce health care costs and improve quality of care. Concentrating on the underlying drivers of chronic diseases will help to shift the nation from today's "sick-care" system to a "health care" system that encourages health and well-being. For more background information, see The Integrator Blog.

• fcMRI studies show difference between genuine and sham electroacupuncture treatment
  Researchers have found functional connectivity changes among key brain regions in the pain matrix and default mode network during genuine EA (electroacupuncture) compared with sham EA. Read the article.

• Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter density
  Using anatomical magnetic resonance images and voxel-based morphometry, researchers at the Harvard Medical School have confirmed that mindfulness meditation leads to increases in grey matter in brain regions involved in learning and memory processes, emotion regulation, self-referential processing, and perspective taking. Read the abstract.

• Thirteenth World Congress on Qigong/TCM April 29 - May 2, 2011 in San Francisco
  The Thirteenth World Congress is timed to coincide with World Tai Chi and Qigong Day (the last Saturday every April - April 30, 2011). Public events are planned for Union Square in addition to the Congress itself. For more information contact www.eastwestqi.com.

• Update on Qigong Practice and Qigong Research in the United States
  How many people are practicing Qigong in the U.S.?  Who are they?  What kind of scientific research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the US Government to understand Qigong and its applications? What are the major findings in these Qigong-related research projects?  This report updates information on these challenging questions with reliable research data and updated survey estimates.  An intensive search of internet databases and published studies provides a unique and interesting update on the scope and diversity of Qigong practice and Qigong research in the United States. Read the full report by Dr. Kevin Chen, Director of Research for the Qigong Institute and researcher at the Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine.

• Relaxation Revolution - Enhancing Your Personal Health Through the Science and Genetics of Mind Body Healing - new book co-authored by Dr. Herbert Benson
  Dr. Herbert Benson has been at the forefront of energy medicine research since he coined the term "relaxation response" in the '70's to describe the body's physiologic reaction to stress. His latest research proves that your mind can change the way your body and genes function. Relaxation Revolution: Enhancing Your Personal Health Through the Science and Genetics of Mind Body Healing describes how mind-body techniques contribute to self-healing, preventing illness, and supplementing drug and surgical procedures.

• 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine Awarded for the Research Explaining How Qigong Slows Aging 
  "Fountain of Youth" discovered: There is a "pill" for anti-aging, and it is called Qigong. Researchers have discovered how the practice of Qigong slows aging at the cellular level! The 2009 Nobel Prize in Medicine was awarded for the discovery of a biological process by which the practice of Qigong reduces stress and slows the aging process.

• A Comprehensive Review of Health Benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi
  Author(s): Roger Jahnke, Linda Larkey, Carol .ng outcomes from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Qigong and Tai Chi. RCTs reporting on the results of Qigong or Tai Chi interventions and published in peer-reviewed journals from 1993 to 2007 were identified. Seventy-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. The nine outcome category groupings that emerged were: bone density (n = 4), cardiopulmonary effects (n = 19), physical function (n = 16), falls and related risk factors (n = 23), quality of life (n = 17), self-efficacy (n = 8), patient-reported outcomes (n = 13), psychological symptoms (n = 27), and immune function (n = 6). Research has demonstrated consistent, significant results for a number of health benefits in RCTs, evidencing progress toward recognizing the similarity and equivalence of Qigong and Tai Chi. To Purchase the article, visit the American Journal of Health Promotion website. Watch a one minute segment on this research shown on abcNews. Additional information on the authors, the review effort, and results (scroll down to page 15). Even China's official news agency People's Daily Online ran an article on this research: Tai Chi, Qigong offer many health benefits .

• Harvard Medical School Endorses Tai Chi (Qigong)
  Harvard Medical School's Harvard Health Publications May 2009 issue calls Tai Chi "medication in motion". The article explains how Tai Chi when combined with standard treatment is helpful for a range of conditions including arthritis, low bone density, breast cancer, heart disease, heart failure, hypertension, Parkinson's disease, sleep problems, and stroke.

• Positive psychological changes from meditation training linked to cellular health
  Positive psychological changes that occur during meditation training are associated with greater telomerase activity, according to researchers at the University of California, Davis, and the University of California, San Francisco. The study is the first to link positive well-being to higher telomerase, an enzyme important for the long-term health of cells in the body. The effect appears to be attributable to psychological changes that increase a person's ability to cope with stress and maintain feelings of well-being. Read the article.

• Review of CAM Practices for Back and Neck Pain Shows Modest Results
  According to a recent review published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the benefits of complementary and alternative therapies for back and neck pain—such as acupuncture, massage, and spinal manipulation—are modest in size but provide more benefit than usual medical care (such as anti-inflammatory medications and exercise). Read the full article.

• Qigong promotes spiritual and psychological well-being
  Researchers at the Boston University School of Public Health have demonstrated a link between the relaxation response (which is elicited during Qigong practice) and spiritual and psychological well-being. The study was conducted as part of a cardiac rehabilitation program. Read the abstract.

• National Qigong Association Conference - August 19-21, 2011
  The theme for the conference is QIGONG: GATEWAY TO BALANCE AND CREATIVITY. It will be held at the Valley Forge Conference Center in Pennsylvania. Presentation proposals are due December 1, 2010, and presenting a workshop at the NQA conference is not limited to NQA members. More information: nqa.org.

• Daily vibration may help protect aging bones
  Biomedical engineers at the Medical College of Georgia have found that daily, whole body vibration my reduce the bone density loss that usually occurs with age. While vibration lacks the same cardiovascular benefit of exercise, animal and human studies also have shown it can improve muscle strength and weight loss. Read the entire article. Spontaneous Qigong is a form of Qigong that involves vibration of the entire body.

• International Symposium on Exercise Therapy - October 14, 15 - Mayo Clinic
  Yang Yang, Ph.D., director of the Center for Taiji and Qigong Studies, will present his research on the health benefits of Taiji (T’ai chi) and Qigong and his ideas on future directions in mind-body research at the first-ever international exercise therapy symposium, which will be held at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, on October 14-15, 2010. At the symposium, Dr. Yang, who’s an adjunct professor of kinesiology at the University of Illinois, will also lead participants through exercises from hisEvidence Based Taiji and Qigong program. His presentation is from 12:15-1:35pm on Thur, Oct. 14.Exercise therapy is an emerging branch of medicine that features individualized exercise programs designed to restore health and prevent further disease. The Mayo Clinic conference will include leading experts in exercise physiology, sports medicine, energy metabolism, and therapies for obesity, cardiovascular disease, dementia, and other disorders.

• Differences found between acupoints and nonacupoints 
  Researchers in Taiwan used laser Doppler measurements to confirm that acupressure induces vasodilation when applied to acupuncture points. Read the abstract.

• Tai Chi reduces loss of cognitive function in the elderly 
  The loss of cognitive function as people age can be slowed down through the practice of Tai Chi. Read the abstract. 

• NCCAM 5-year draft strategy plan is available for public comment
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine has published the draft of its next five-year funding strategy document. Comments may be made online until September 30, 2010. View the draft plan.

• Mindfulness training reduces alcohol relapse in randomized controlled pilot trial
  Read the abstract.

• Qigong proves effective in increasing student's well-being and self-image, and reducing stress and distress
  Read the abstract.

• Tai Chi Found to be Effective for Alleviating Fibromyalgia Symptoms
  Researchers from Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA reveal that a significant number of patients with fibromyalgia responded well to Tai Chi, experiencing alleviation of joint pains and other symptoms. The study is published in NEJM (New England Journal of Medicine). Tai Chi was also more effective than stretching. For the full articles, see Qigong in the Press.

• Qigong proves effective for tinnitus
  Qigong proved effective for tinnitus especially where there was a somatosensoric component. Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Yoga helps lumbar spine 
  Magnetic resonance imaging showed that the group of long-term practitioners of yoga studied had significantly less degenerative disc disease than a matched control group. Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Yoga improves mood and decreases anxiety
  This is the first study that shows that behavioral intervention (a 12 week yoga course) has been associated with a positive correlation in thalamic GABA levels which improve mood and decrease anxiety. Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• New Study: Tai Chi and Qigong Beneficial for Health, Wellness and Reducing Healthcare Costs
  Tai Chi and Qigong exercise routines offer a number of significant physical and mental health benefits. This finding has significant implications for people's health and wellness and for reducing healthcare costs . Dr. Roger Jahnke, the first author of this study, Director of the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi (IIQTC) and nationally renowned Tai Chi and Qigong expert, further explained the significance of this comprehensive study: "the across-the-board health benefits suggest that Tai Chi and Qigong can be implemented not only therapeutically for individual health conditions but also for holistic approaches for wellness, health promotion, disease prevention." Read an article describing the research. Read the abstract: Dissemination and Benefits of a Replicable Tai Chi and Qigong Program for Older Adults, which is in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™. Also see Qigong for Cubicles and Corporations on the Qigong Institute home page (scroll down on the right side of the page).

• Tai Chi Boosts Efficacy of Antidepressant Therapy in Older Adults
  Read the entire article.

• Light affects cellular metabolism and gene expression
  Researchers at the Institute of Anti-Aging Research, Laser Skin & Vein Center of Virginia, have found that cell metabolism and gene expression can be altered by simultaneous exposure to multiple wavelengths of low energy light. Read the abstract.

• Tai Chi Increases Bone Density And Flexibility
  A new study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine builds on that evidence, finding that older women with osteoarthritis partaking in a tai chi program enjoyed stronger bone density and greater flexibility, and weren't as afraid of falling. Build Stronger Bones with Tai Chi.

• Analysis of National Survey Reveals Perceived Benefit of CAM for Back Pain
  According to a recent analysis of the 2002 National Health Interview Survey, approximately six percent of U.S. adults used complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to treat their back pain during the previous year. The data from this analysis, published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, also revealed that a majority (sixty percent) of survey respondents who used the most common CAM therapies for back pain perceived "a great deal" of benefit. Of those who used CAM, fifty-six percent reported using Qigong, Tai Chi, and Yoga. Read the full article.

• Study seeks to show how acupuncture really works
  Scientists are presenting a new theory on the mechanism of acupuncture—a traditional Chinese healing technique that seems to work for some ailments, though Western researchers don’t understand why. Eastern practitioners say acupuncture works by changing energy flows in the body. Western scientists tend not to buy this account, arguing that the proposed energy fields have never been seen or measured. Read the full article.

• World Tai Chi and Qigong Day Expands Focus
  World Tai Chi and Qigong Day has expanded its focus to include Yoga, Reiki, all forms of Meditation, Sacred Dance, Art, Music, Dramatic Arts, Prayer, and Sufi Dance. This will make the event more inclusive and will raise its profile among both the public and media. It accomplishes this by making World Tai Chi and Qigong Day a part of World Healing Day, along with the other activities listed. For more information on World Healing Day, see www.worldhealingday.org .

• A New Frontier of Energy Medicine: Optogenetics
  Scientists have developed molecular "light switches" to turn on and off neuronal circuits in the brain. This technology is under five years old. For more information on controlling circuits in the brain with pulses of visible light, see: Light Switches for Neurons.

• Tai Chi May Benefit Older Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis
  NCCAM-funded researchers at Tufts Medical Center completed a study that proved relative to a control group, Tai Chi patients had greater improvement in measures of pain, physical function, self-efficacy (belief in one's own abilities), depression, and health-related quality of life. Read the full article.

• Acupuncture and Pain: Applying Modern Science to an Ancient Practice 
  In its most recent newsletter, the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has a feature story on the study of the physiological effects of acupuncture. Researchers have identified changes in the brain's pain centers, gene expression, and molecular changes in the nervous and immune systems. Interestingly, these advances in research into the mechanisms of acupuncture are occurring while neuroscientists readily acknowledge that they have no way to measure 'qi' or classic meridians. Read the full article.

• New Medical Qigong Text Released in 2010 
  
  

  Chinese Medical Qigong, known as Qigong Study in Chinese Medicine in China, is the third edition of the only official textbook of medical Qigong used in colleges and universities of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in China. It is the result of the collaborative efforts of more than thirty faculty members in a dozen colleges and universities of TCM in China and represents the highest level of academic research and the broadest compilation of clinical applications on medical Qigong today. This unique book is a systematic survey of the history, methods, transformation, and development of ancient Chinese mind-body cultivating skills, or what is today called Qigong. This text focuses on medical Qigong as a study discipline in the 21st century, and on cultivating Qi for the health and healing. It offers concepts, examples, background, techniques, and a multitude of historic and contemporary methods for refining and implementing mind-body cultivation within life nurturing and healing. The English edition of this book is the result of the collective efforts of a group of professionals in traditional Chinese medicine and Qigong. To truly reflect the original meanings of Chinese texts and to deliver a translation of the highest quality, three layers of translating and editing were employed. In the last group of consulting editors are two western MDs with experience in mind-body medicine or Qigong and three Qigong scholars well-known in America, each of whom has already published best-selling Qigong book.The translation and editing process was partially supported by grants from the International Advanced Plan of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and from the World Institute for Self Healing, Inc. (WISH), a non-profit organization in New Jersey dedicated to promoting Qigong, self-healing, and mind power through research, education and networking. For the Table of Contents and information about the authors, see the introduction to Chinese Medical Qigong or visit the World Institute for Self Healing Inc site, which includes more information on the authors, editors, translators, introduction and forward. Read a Q&A about this book (scroll down the document to page 29).

• Energy Cross-Training Part 1/3: The Real Purpose of Yoga
  Taiji Master and Taoist lineage holder Bruce Frantzis discusses Taoist cross-training: "finding connections between movement arts, healing, and ultimately meditation." Read the full article.

• International Tai Chi Chuan Symposium: The Taiji Science Panel Discussion with Grandmasters
  At the International Tai Chi Chuan Symposium last summer, more than 500 Taiji teachers, practitioners, and researchers gathered in a large auditorium on the Vanderbilt campus to hear a groundbreaking public discussion organized and moderated by Dr. Yang Yang. Read Matthew Komelski's report on the meeting in the Center for Taiji Studies February 2010 Newsletter. Listen to a Qigong Institute podcast on this conference with Qigong Institute President Tom Rogers interviewing Dr. Roger Jahnke, Director of the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi.

• "Taiji and Qigong: Ancient Wisdom for Living Well with Parkinson's"
  The potential benefits of Taiji and Qigong practice for those with Parkinson's disease were recently presented by Dr. Yang Yang at the Jewish Community Center in New York City. Read the full article from the Center for Taiji Studies February 2010 Newsletter.

• NCCAM Funding for FY 2010 
  The FY 2010 appropriation for the NIH's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is $128,844,000, which represents a 2.7 percent increase over the FY 2009 appropriation of $125,471,000. The budget request for 2011 is a 2.5 percent increase over the FY 2010 appropriation.

  Other news from NCCAM: Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain. Its annual economic cost, including health care expenses, lost income, and lost productivity, is estimated to be $100 billion. In addition, the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) found that chronic pain is by far the most common reason Americans use CAM. Increasing evidence from rigorous scientific studies indicates that certain CAM therapies (e.g., relaxation techniques, acupuncture, chiropractic manipulation, and massage) may be useful in managing chronic pain. Other new NHIS data show that Americans are spending approximately $34 billion out-of-pocket on CAM products and services?\with nearly two-thirds being spent on "self-care" items, forms of CAM that individuals use on their own without seeing a health care provider. Of this, approximately $14.8 billion is spent on nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products (such as botanicals and other dietary supplements). Source: Congrerssional Justfication 2011.

• Cortical thickness and pain sensitivity in Zen meditators
  Researchers at the University of Montreal have found "that pain sensitivity is related to cortical thickness in pain-related brain regions and that the lower sensitivity observed in meditators may be the product of alterations to brain morphometry from long-term practice." Emotion. 2010 Feb;10(1):43-53.

• Download Qi Magazine -- for FREE
  Qi Magazine was founded in 1990 by Michael Tse as a means of helping his students learn more about Chinese culture. Often his students would ask the same or similar questions in class and so he felt he could benefit more people with his knowledge by offering the Qi Magazine to them and also a wider audience. The magazine grew from a small black and white booklet to a proper magazine that was distributed all over the world. Sadly Qi Magazine has now ceased production, but not after 18 years and 90 issues all packed with rare and unique articles covering all aspects of Chinese Qigong, martial arts, culture and philosophy. This wealth of information is now available to everyone as you can now download every single issue of Qi Magazine ever produced, in pdf format for free. A number of printed issues are available to purchase in sets. For more information go to the Qi Magazine online shop.

• 10th Anniversary of International Forum for Qigong
  January 2010 marks the 10th anniversary of the internet group -- International forum for Qigong research. More than 50 research grants from NIH were awarded for Qigong and related studies in the past 10 years. Most of the NIH grantees of Qigong studies are in this forum, and continue exchange their research ideas and improve their research design. Here's an example of the information reported in the forum (from Jan 7, 2010): "after 4 years of collective work and endless discussions, we have finally completed the translation and editing of the first textbook in medical Qigong (and the only official textbook used in colleges and universities of TCM in China) -- Chinese Medical Qigong, which will be published next month by Singing Dragon, an imprint of JKP in UK. This marks an new ear for Qigong research as we now have a college textbook on this subject. " To join the group, see Yahoo Groups.

• Tai Chi Tipping Point: Will Tai Chi Go Viral?
  In his new blog, Taoist lineage holder Bruce Frantzis discusses what it will take to bring Tai Chi to the level of popularity in our culture that is currently enjoyed by yoga.

• New Online Journal of Qigong and Tai Chi Culture
  Into Mountains, Over Streams: a Journal of Qigong & Taiji Culture, will publish articles, reviews, and community information in support of the emerging Qigong and Taiji renaissance. The publishers hope to create a web-based portal that will support this emerging global culture, and foster dialogue among the various global communities. The official site will launch on Feb 14th, 2010 in observance of the coming Year of the Metal Tiger. The beta-site is www.imos-journal. com . Into Mountains, Over Streams is accepting unsolicited submissions from professional and amateur writers that fall under the broad concept of ?gQigong and Taiji Culture.?hThis includes articles on traditions, histories, teacher profiles, practices, media reviews, innovations, new approaches and applications, as well as anecdotal stories about your communities

• Qigong Institute Quoted in emagazine.com
  The Qigong Institute is quoted on the health benefits of Qigong in the November/December issue of emagazine.com. The article is Stay Healthy During the Holidays and discusses the health benefits of herbal and spice teas, hot baths, and deep breathing. Read the full article.

• Mayo Clinic Endorses Tai Chi, Yoga, and Meditation (a major component of Qigong) 
  The October 2009 Mayo Clinic Health Letter contains a large article on the health benefits of meditation. Included is a section on Mindfulness-based stress reduction that mentions how researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School have developed a program for students to reduce stress. It reports that meditation techniques have been "used to help people cope with problems including chronic pain, illnesses, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and high blood pressure, headaches and depression." A Special Report Supplement to the Mayo Clinic Health Letter discusses the health benefits of Tai Chi and Yoga: "Imagine that you found something you could do for about 20 minutes each morning that reduced stress and gave you a deep sense of calm and peace. At the same time, this calming activity also helped you build strength, stay limber, improve your balance and other aspects of your health, such as immune function and blood pressure." The Center for Taiji Studies received permission to distribute theSpecial Report on Yoga and Tai Chi . Go to the Center for Taiji Studies news page to subscribe to their newsletter. Go to the Mayo Clinic Health Letter Online Bookstorefor a trial issue of the Health Letter or to subscribe.

• Tai Chi found effective for Osteoarthritis
  Tufts Medical Center reports in a Randomized Control Trial that Tai Chi reduces pain, improves physical function, self-efficacy, depression, and health-related quality of life for knee osteoarthritis. Read the abstract.

• Medical Qigong improves quality of life in cancer patients 
  The University of Sydney reports in a Randomized Control Trial that Medical Qigong improves the quality of life of cancer patients significantly compared with usual care.Read the abstract.

• 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine Awarded for Telomere Research 
  One of the major benefits of Qigong practice is its positive effect upon telomeres and telomerase. Read Dr. Roger Jahnke's summary of recent breakthroughs in Qigong research on gene expression and the National Institutes of Health press release on the Nobel Prize award.

• NIH funds new website on the integrative approach to three chronic diseases: Heart disease, Diabetes and Chronic Pain
  New Approaches to Chronic Disease, a new National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded multimedia consumer education website provides in-depth, evidence-based information, extensive resources and research summaries, and unique online exercises that offer patients a multidisciplinary integrative approach to managing Heart Disease, Diabetes and Chronic Pain. The site is available in English and Spanish. Visit: www.healingchronicdisease.org . 

• A Return to Healing: Radical Health Care Reform and the Future of Medicine - A book by Dr. Len Saputo 
  At a time when the Obama administration is presenting controversial health care reform,"A Return to Healing" is more poignant than ever. The fact is, Dr. Saputo has been working on this book for years - so it is no simple response to current events. This book not only looks at the challenging health care landscape in the U.S. today, but it provides an in-depth look at what brought America to this condition... and most importantly, what is required for us to move to a new level of caring for ourselves and those in need. Len is no "typical" physician; he is amongst the small percent who really understands the worlds of East and West, of allopathic and complementary medicine, and of treatment and healing. If you are a layperson confused by what you are hearing about medical care and the pharmaceutical companies these days, this book will open your eyes to the concept of "health medicine." If you are a health care practitioner, reading Len's work with inspire you to your potential.

• Yoga Found Effective for Chronic Low Back Pain 
  Researchers from West Virginia University, the BKS Iyengar Institute, and Columbia Halth Centre found that Yoga is very effective for treating chronic low back pain and helped patients reduce their pain medication usage. Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Qigong Improves Brain Plasticity 
  Researchers at the Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo used EEGs and LORETA (low resolution electromagnetic tomography) to determine that "neuroplasticity effects of long-term meditation practice [using Qigong], subjectively described as increased awareness and greater detachment, are carried over into non-meditating states." Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the United States: Cost Data
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternataive Medicine (NCCAM) has just released some new cost data. In the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), approximately 38 percent of adults reported using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the previous 12 months. The CAM component of the NHIS, developed by NCCAM and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), also collected data about CAM costs, including cost of CAM use, frequency of visits made to CAM practitioners, and frequency of purchases of self-care CAM therapies. According to the 2007 NHIS survey, 83 million U.S. adults spent $33.9 billion out-of-pocket on visits to CAM practitioners and on purchases of CAM products, classes, and materials. At $33.9 billion, CAM accounts for approximately 1.5 percent of total health care expenditures and 11.2 percent of total out-of-pocket expenditures on health care in the United States. Read the full summary .

• Tai Chi Proves Beneficial for Cardiovascular Conditions and Risk Factors
  Researchers at the Harvard Medical School have reported that Tai Chi may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for some patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) or with CVD risk factors. Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Qigong Improves Migraines 
  In a study conducted at the Family Medicine Health Science Center at the State University of New York, participants who practiced Qigong had measurable improvements in their migraines with no adverse effects. Read the full abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Qigong on Internet Radio every Monday
  Lama Tantrapa offers his unique perspectives on the art of energy awareness. As the host of this enlightening talk show, he interviews prominent experts in the fields of Oriental Medicine, Energy Healing, Meditation and Internal Martial Arts. Join him every Monday at 6:00 pm PST (9:00 pm EST) for a friendly and mindful exchange of ideas and "secrets of the trade." Listen to blogtalkradio.

• Qigong Recent News Summary
  In the last year researchers have discovered the exact mechanism by which Qigong contributes to anti-aging at the cellular level, and Qigong along with Tai Chi has been recognized as a new category of exercise: moving meditation. Harvard Medical School and the National Institutes of Health have also recognized the profound health benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi. Read the complete summary.

• Bruce Frantzis Receives NQA Lifetime Achievement Award 
  

  The National Qigong Association (NQA) awards an Honorary Lifetime Membership for Extraordinary Service in the Field of Qigong at its annual conference. The 2009 conference was held in Pacific Grove, California. This award goes to someone who has given outstanding service to establish and integrate qigong into all aspects of mainstream culture, healing, science, and education. He or she has been effective reaching students, practitioners and the public, increasing awareness and understanding of Qigong. Bruce Frantzis is a pioneer in the field of Chi (Qi) practices, such as Chi gung (Qigong or Chi kung), Tai chi and TAO meditation. He is one of a handful of westerners who are holders of Taoist and Qigong lineages. For nearly three decades Bruce has taught more than 350 events and Instructor trainings worldwide to more than 16,000 students.

• NCCAM Update: Acupuncture for Pain 
  Physical pain is a common occurrence for many Americans; in fact, a national survey found that more than one-quarter of U.S. adults had recently experienced some sort of pain lasting more than a day. In addition to conventional treatments, such as over-the-counter and prescription medications, people may try acupuncture in an effort to relieve pain. This fact sheet published by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (a division of the National Institutes of Health) provides basic information about pain and acupuncture, summarizes scientific research on acupuncture for specific kinds of pain, and suggests sources for additional information.
  https://nccam.ni h.gov/health/acupuncture/acupuncture-for-pain.htm

• World Tai Chi & Qigong Day Honored with Induction into the Internal Arts Hall of Fame
  Listen to the hopeful and moving acceptance speech given by WTC&QD founder Bill Douglas which recognizes the profound value of Internal Arts practitioners and teachers, and paints a inspiring vision for our world. It is about 10 minutes long.

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine FY2010 Budget 
  The NCCAM FY2010 budget is $127M, which represents a very slight increase in funded research projects over the FY2009 budget. The 2007 National Health Interview Survey data showed that nearly 40 percent of adults use CAM. The most common reason for the use of CAM is chronic pain, including back pain, headache, and arthritis pain. The modalities used most frequently for chronic pain include manipulative therapies, meditation (including Qigong and Tai Chi), yoga, massage, acupuncture, and various botanical and other dietary supplements. In FY 2008, NCCAM added two new centers on mind-body research to its CERC program. The University of California, San Francisco center is studying the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on obesity and the metabolic syndrome. The University of Wisconsin CERC is examining how different forms of meditation affect the brain's regulation of emotion. NCCAM Congressional Justification 2010.

• Acupuncture-Like Treatments Improve Outcomes Compared to Usual Care for Low Back Pain
  People suffering from chronic low back pain who received acupuncture or simulated acupuncture treatments fared better than those receiving only conventional care according to a recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. The study highlights central questions about the mechanisms of benefit seen in acupuncture studies. This trial, led by Daniel Cherkin, Ph.D., of Group Health Center for Health Studies in Seattle, was funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a component of the National Institutes of Health.

• Research Update 
  Researchers in China using EEGs and heart rate variability (HRV) analysis have found that central and autonomic nervous system interaction is altered by short-term meditation. Also, mind-body interventions were found to greatly benefit patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs in a recent study published by the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. The full abstracts are available in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Meditative Movement as a Category of Exercise - Randomized Control Trials Prove Effectiveness of Qigong and Tai Chi 
  In a new paper by Larkey, Jahnke, et. al., Meditative Movement (MM) is proposed as a new category of exercise defined by (a) some form of movement or body positioning, (b) a focus on breathing, and (c) a cleared or calm state of mind with a goal of (d) deep states of relaxation. Two forms of exercise meeting this definition, Qigong and Tai Chi, are reviewed. Mind?|body approaches to health are those practices (eg, meditation, breathing techniques) that generate states of mental and physical relaxation.

• White House Forum on Health Reform Releases Report
  President Obama called a non-partisan forum to discuss how to lower the costs and improve the quality and accessibility of health care. Participants strongly recommended changing the current paradigm so that prevention of illness and keeping people healthy becomes an integral part of the American health system. They noted that it is much cheaper to prevent disease than to treat it, and that public health and prevention should be interwoven into our society, including schools. Read a short summary of the White House Forum on Health Reform Report (PDF). Also see The United States Government and Qigong.

• Regular Tai Chi Exercise Reduces DNA Oxidative Stress Damage
  In July, 2008 a breakthrough study was completed exploring the extent to which Mind-Body practices that trigger the relaxation response have an influence on gene expression. Now a new study by biochemical researchers at a leading medical facility in Malaysia confirms that regular Tai Chi practice reduces DNA damage by increasing the body's naturally produced antioxidant enzymes. Read the entire abstract in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• The International Tai Chi Chuan Symposiumon Health, Education and Cultural Exchange
  Traditional Tai Chi Chuan A View Through the Lens of Science: July 5-10, 2009 Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee In July of 2009, the world's foremost authorities on the five traditional Chinese Family Schools of Tai Chi Chuan, as well as other top Tai Chi Chuan practitioners and scholars will come to Vanderbilt University in Nashville Tennessee for an international level Tai Chi Chuan Symposium. The theme of this Symposium will focus on bringing together the wisdom of Chinese culture with the precision of modern science through evidence-based academic sessions, Master's workshops and other special events designed to foster an exchange of knowledge and cultures. This Symposium will be the first of its kind in the United States. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to study with five of China's top Masters along with well respected scholars carefully selected for their unique and highly professional level of expertise in the scientific study and examination of Tai Chi Chuan. For more info: The International Tai Chi Chuan Symposium.

• Surviving Beatles unite to promote meditation
  Former Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr will reunite on stage April 4, 2009 to raise money to teach transcendental meditation to children around the world to "help provide them a quiet haven in a not-so-quiet world," McCartney said. "In moments of madness, it has helped me find moments of serenity," McCartney said in the concert announcement. The goal of the project -- which is called "Change Begins Within" -- is to teach the meditation technique to a million at-risk children so they have "life-long tools to overcome stress and violence and promote peace and success in their lives," Yellin said. Read the entire CNN.com/entertainment article.

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine FY 2009 Budget
  NCCAM's budget request for FY 2009 is roughly the same as FY 2008, or $121 million. In addition, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has received new funds for Fiscal Years 2009 and 2010 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. NIH has designated at least $200 million in FYs 2009-2010 for a new initiative called the NIH Challenge Grants in Health and Science Research. This new program will support research on topic areas that address specific scientific and health research challenges in biomedical and behavioral research that would benefit from significant 2-year jumpstart funds. The NIH has identified a range of Challenge Areas that focus on specific knowledge gaps, scientific opportunities, new technologies, data generation, or research methods that would benefit from an influx of funds to quickly advance the area in significant ways. Each NIH Institute, Center, and Office has selected specific Challenge Topics within the broad Challenge Areas related to its mission. The research in these Challenge Areas should have a high impact in biomedical or behavioral science and/or public health. NIH anticipates funding 200 or more grants, each of up to $1 million in total costs, pending the number and quality of applications and availability of funds. Grant applications are due April 27, 2009. For more information, see NCCAM Challenge Topics.

• The Rife Handbook of Frequency Therapy with a Holistic Health Primer
  This updated edition includes The Politics of Medicine and the Nature of Health: Drug damage versus effectiveness. How to analyze clinical trials, and why government oversight doesn't work. Hospital procedures and infections, iatrogenic (doctor-caused) disease and preventable deaths. Vaccines: myths, ingredients, how they affect the body. How drugs are approved, the pharmaceutical industry's marriage to the FDA, various government agencies and officials, and even to universities. How drugs are marketed and publicized. Corporate-owned media, the fallacy of "peer reviewed" articles, and industry ties to medical journals. Doping our children with psychotropic drugs.Special issues with electronic media and how it affects the brain. Drugs in our food and in our drinking water. Big Pharma's campaign against nutritional supplements. A holistic, functional approach to health. And that's just the first chapter. Other chapters cover complementary therapies and Rife-based energy medicine. More information is at https://www.nenahsylver.com/rife_handbook_2009_description.html .

• NCCAM Newsletter is now online
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has relaunched its newsletter. Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Focus on Research and Care features a fresh new design and content more focused on research and patient care. It also includes an insert specially designed for consumers. The January issue features new statistics on CAM use and how to sort claims from facts about CAM. 38% of American adults use CAM. The most common CAM therapy is Natural products, followed by deep breathing, meditation, chiropractic, massage, and yoga. For more information on American's use of CAM, including its use by children, see theNCCAM Newsletter.

• Qi Dao Newsletter: January-February 2009
  Qi Dao, the E-newsletter of World Institute for Self Healing, Inc. (WISH) promotes the philosophy and methods of human self-healing and mind power, and their applications in health and healing. In this issue Marty Eisen continues his study of Qi; in his new internet radio talk show, The Secrets of Qigong Masters, Lama Somananda Tantrapa talks about his interviews with Qigong Masters and the contrasting/ complementing ideas of the Masters; Michelle Wood talks about intuition, how our body knows what may or should happen, and how our mind intercedes in our everyday lives to help us if we are willing to listen; and Dr. Chen shares his experience of the Counting Breath Method of meditation. This method helps the meditator concentrate and form the habit of slow breathing. Research Updates look at Qigong for chronic conditions; Tai Chi and Qigong in older adults; Meditation practices in health care; Qigong exercises and their effects on human saliva; Anti-depressive effects of Qigong exercises; and effects of bio-energy therapies on cancer growth. Read the entire Qi Dao (.PDF).

• 11th International Energy Psychology Conference - May 29 - 31, 2009 - Orlando, Florida 
  Energy Psychology is based on an integration of quantum physics, psychology, Eastern medicine, and spirituality. EP posits that psychological problems are a reflection of disturbed bio-energetic patterns. EP methods help clients learn tools to directly influence these patterns. Clients learn skills to self-regulate, rapidly reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, anger, trauma, guilt, shame and depression. The mind-body connection involves a two-way communication system modulated by the energy pathways and centers of the body. EP utilizes these energy pathways while working with disturbances in thought and emotion to more rapidly and thoroughly effect change. EP provides tools to quickly assess unconscious beliefs and resistances, release limiting beliefs and blocked emotions, promote readiness to change and strengthen positive attitudes. Sponsored by the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology. The Largest organization of practitioners of energy psychological methods. Click to learn more, download a full brochure, or register. For more information go to www.Energypsych.org.

• Research Update
  Dr. Kevin Chen, the Qigong Institute's Director of Research has published a paper on the Inhibitory Effects of Bio-Energy Therapies on Cancer Growth 
  -- An overview of recent laboratory studies in the U.S.and its implications in cancer treatment. This paper is available on the Scientific Basis of Qigong and Energy Medicine page. Also, researchers from the National Chiao Tung University in Taiwan have demonstrated that meditation enhances cardiorespiratory phase synchronization. The full abstract is available in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™.

• Research Update
  Tai Chi can be beneficial for people with Type-2 Diabetes. For more information, watch Tai-chi for diabetes sufferers.

• In Memory of Janet Sullivan, President of the National Qigong Association 
  

  Janet Sullivan was one of the most active and involved Presidents in NQA history. She served on almost all the committees, and also initiated and undertook a number of projects on her own, including the development of a Policies and Procedures Manual and the compilation of a history of the NQA, to list but a few. Janet studied Qigong and completed teacher training under Dr. Roger Jahnke. She was elected to the NQA Board in 2004. After serving terms as Secretary and Vice-President, Janet was confirmed as President in 2007, and was re-elected in Spring, 2008 for a three-year term. The NQA has established the Janet Sullivan Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is to be used to help students who don't have the financial means to attend the NQA annual conferences. Any amount contributed is welcome. For more information, visit nqa.org/janet.

• NCCAM Adds Four New Centers of Excellence for Research
  The National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has added four new Centers of Excellence for Research on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CERCs) to its research centers program. The new centers will add to knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches and their potential in treating and preventing diseases and conditions that are common among Americans. Two of the new Centers are: Wisconsin Center for the Neuroscience and Psychophysiology of Meditation and Metabolic and Immunologic Effects of Meditation. More information can be found athttps://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/102008.htm .

• Department of Defense Awards Grant to the Center for Mind-Body Medicine
  The Washington, DC based Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM) has been awarded a two-year grant from the newly formed Defense Center of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury, for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to study the effectiveness of the CMBM's comprehensive, non-drug approach (including meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and yoga) to treating posttraumatic stress disorder and major depression with troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, and their families.

• NCCAM Report: Meditation for Health Purposes Workshop
  On July 8-9, 2008, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) held a 2-day workshop in Bethesda, Maryland on meditation for health purposes. It was co-sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences (OBSSR), and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (INMHA, ICRH). The purpose of the meeting was to articulate potential goals and directions for research on the mechanisms and efficacy of meditation practices for a variety of health concerns. Experts from a range of disciplines and with a wide range of involvement in the field of meditation research were asked to critically examine the current state of science on meditation for health, and to identify existing or potential intersections and contributions from their fields to further this area of science. For more information see Meditation for Health Purposes Workshop -- July 8-9, 2008.

• Mind-Body (Energy) Medicine Successfully Treats Children with PTSD 
  The Washington, DC based Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM) announced the publication of a landmark study on the use of its comprehensive, non-drug model to treat posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in war traumatized children. The study, "Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Post-War Kosovar Adolescents Using Mind-Body Skills Groups: A Randomized Controlled Trial," which was published online in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry is the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) ever of any intervention with war traumatized children. It is also the first RCT of a successful, comprehensive mind-body approach with any traumatized population. For more information visit www.cmbm.org.

• Qigong and Gene Expression - New Breakthrough Research
  "For hundreds of years Western medicine has looked at mind and body as totally separate entities, to the point where saying something 'is all in your head' implied that it was imaginary," says Herbert Benson, MD, director emeritus of the Benson-Henry Institute and co-senior author of a groundbreaking research report. "Now we've found how changing the activity of the mind can alter the way basic genetic instructions are implemented." Mind-body practices that elicit the relaxation response such as Qigong and Tai Chi have been used worldwide for millennia to reverse the detrimental physiological effects of stress. Practices that trigger the relaxation response (a term pioneered by Dr. Benson), have been reported to be beneficial therapeutically (sometimes as an adjunct to medical treatment) in numerous conditions that are caused or intensified by stress. Dr. Roger Jahnke has written a review of the Benson study and several others on gene expression that will fundamentally transform science, medicine and society. The implications for corporate wellness, integrative medicine and fitness are huge. There are nowhere near enough Qigong and Tai Chi teachers for this coming boom. Read Dr. Jahnke's Report [PDF]

• Qigong Tracker - New Online System to Track Qigong and Tai Chi Practice
  Qigong Tracker is a new state-of-the-art, online software system that builds community around Qigong and Tai Chi practice and the data collected from actual results, healings, and feedback, monitored by a medical advisory panel. Features range from advanced tracking survey/data gathering tools to interactive calendars and automated group emailing for scheduling and promoting classes or events. Current programs include Qigong Wellness Tracking, Group Healing and Study Trips, Chi Nei Tsang, Radiant Lotus Qigong, and more. Visit Qigong Tracker.

• Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (1918 - 2008)
  The visionary Indian guru who did more to bring meditation into mainstream consciousness and medicine throughout the world passed away earlier this year. Maharishi promoted meditation and inspired an extensive amount of scientific research that proved its profound effectiveness for reducing stress, increasing creativity, generating happiness, and improving health. As a young man he studied physics and felt that eventually the unified field of quantum physics which is the basis of all matter and energy would be found to be equivalent to pure consciousness. More information is available on the Transcendental Meditation website.

• Mind-Body and Relaxation Research Focus
  

  

Nova Publishers has released Mind-Body and Relaxation Research Focus. From the book description: "Mind-Body and relaxation research emphasize mind-body interactions with intended benefits that include relaxation and emotional well being. Mind-body and relaxation therapies have been shown to effective in many cases of chronic conditions, rehabilitation, stress reduction, increasing immunity, reduction of muscular system tension, lowering blood pressure, arthritis and increasing mental well-being. This new book presents recent and significant research in the field." Included is "Expert Commentary A: Qigong-Profound Energy-Based Health Therapy to Complement Established Western Medical Practices" by Tom Rogers, Vice-President of the Qigong Institute. To find out more, visit Nova Publishers.

• North American Research Conference on Complementary & Integrative Medicine - Call for Abstracts
  The North American Research Conference on Complementary & Integrative Medicine is calling for abstracts. This conference, to be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 12 - 16, 2009, is sponsored by the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine (CAHCIM), which consists of 41 leading academic medical centers from across North America.

• NCCAM Launches Educational Campaign, Time to Talk
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has launched Time to Talk, an educational campaign to encourage patients—particularly those age 50 or older—and their health care providers to openly discuss the use of complementary and alternative medicine. Free educational materials and tools are available.

• Health and Human Services Secretary And Chinese Minister Of Health Sign Memorandum Of Understanding On Traditional Chinese Medicine Research
  HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese Vice Minister of Health Wang Guoqiang to foster collaboration between scientists in both countries in research on integrative and traditional Chinese medicine. "Many Americans incorporate alternative medical practices into their personal health care and are interested in the potential of a variety of traditional Chinese medicine approaches," Secretary Leavitt said. "This project will advance our understanding of when and how to appropriately integrate traditional Chinese medicine with Western medical approaches to improve the health of the American and Chinese people." Thirty-six percent of Americans use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), according to the 2002 National Health Interview Survey. In the United States, traditional Chinese medicine is an alternative medical system that is considered a part of complementary and alternative medicine. Integrative medicine combines mainstream medical practices with alternative medical practices. Read the full article.

• Qigong Institute Founder and CEO Retires
  

  Los Altos, California. June 14, 2008 - Dr. Ken Sancier, the founder of the non-profit Qigong Institute (https://www.qigonginstitute.org), has resigned as CEO and Chairman of the Board after twenty-four years of dedicated service.

  Dr. Sancier started the Qigong Institute after retiring in 1984 from a career as a research chemist at Stanford Research Institute. He created the original Qigong Database as a means to catalog the vast amount of information on the profound healing capabilities of Qigong that he had gathered from international conferences. He later decided to include alternative healing and energy medicine practices such as Yoga, Reiki, Acupuncture, Mind-Body healing and therapies including meditation, and Tai Chi (Taiji). To reflect its expanded scope, the database was renamed to The Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™. It currently has over 4300 abstracts.

  Dr. Sancier appeared in the PBS documentary on Qigong; was the first honorary member of the National Qigong Association in 1997 for his work in promoting Qigong by establishing the Qigong Institute; and has published over thirty original papers on Qigong, with the most referenced being Anti-Aging Benefits of Qigong. His belief is that "The science and art of Qigong may open a window into new thinking about health, medicine, psychology and spirituality. It is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that continuously supports our natural tendency toward homeostasis." Dr. Sancier becomes CEO Emeritus and remains in an advisory capacity to the organization.

   

  Over the last two decades the Qigong Institute has sponsored Qigong research in the US and China; published over thirty-five papers and articles; created the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database with over four thousand abstracts in English from research around the world; sponsored seventy public lectures (some of which are available through the website); developed the QI website; created informational podcasts attracting 500 visitors per week; taught Qigong in community centers, high schools, middle schools, and to Qigong and acupuncture students; organized World Tai Chi and Qigong Day events; created informational videos available on YouTube; sponsored Qigong classes and seminars; and participated in the National Experts Meeting to help make the healing benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi known to the public, especially the aging population.

• Neuroscientist Discovers the Path to Nirvana
  Read the New York Times article 'A Superhighway to Bliss' or watch Jill Bolte Taylor's amazing video on how she re-discovered what Qigong practitioners have known about and been practicing for millennia.

• Chinese Researchers Report Acupuncture More Effective Than Drugs for Cancer Pain 
  Chinese researchers report that analgesic effect of acupuncture treatment is better than that of the Three Step Administration (aspirin, codeine, morphine), with no adverse effect or addiction to analgesics. The full abstract can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• World Tai Chi and Qigong Day 2008 is Huge Success 
  

  

  WTC&Q Day 2008 was the best ever with the greatest participation from around the world. More information and pictures are available atWorld Tai Chi and Qigong Day. The success of this year's event is perhaps best illustrated by the incredible participation by the Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts Association.

• Research on the Benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi
  Tai chi exercise may reduce blood pressure and serve as a practical, non-pharmacologic adjunct to conventional hypertension management - Tufts-New England Medical Center.  Meditation-based stress-management practices reduce stress and enhance forgiveness among college undergraduates - School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley. MBSR (mindfulness-based stress reduction, i.e. meditation) is an effective treatment for reducing stress and anxiety that accompanies daily life and chronic illness. MBSR is also therapeutic for healthcare providers, enhancing their interactions with patients. No negative side effects from MBSR have been documented - Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. Regular Tai Chi Chuan exercise improves the immune function of of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients - British Journal of Sports Medicine. Tai Chi improves balance and mobility in people with Parkinson disease. Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis. Tai Chi program is effective in decreasing the number of falls, the risk for falling, and the fear of falling, and it improves functional balance and physical performance in physically inactive persons aged 70 years or older - Oregon Research Institute. The full abstracts can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• Tai Chi Could Help Fight Against Type 2 Diabetes
  Tai Chi could help curb symptoms of type 2 diabetes according to a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. The study suggested that Tai Chi might prompt a fall in blood glucose levels, or improve blood glucose metabolism, triggering a drop in the inflammatory response. The full abstract can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• U of Arizona Researchers Report Naturopathic Care to be More Cost-Effective Than Standardized Physiotherapy for Chronic Lower Back Pain
  University of Arizona researchers found that naturopathic care (which includes acupuncture and relaxation exercises) significantly improved patients quality of life and lowered costs of care relative to conventional treatment for chronic lower back pain. The full abstract can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• Dr. Shin Lin Named to NCCAM Advisory Council
  Dr. Shin Lin of UC Irvine was named to the The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine's (NCCAM) National Advisory Council for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NACCAM). The Council serves as the principal advisory body to NCCAM, the lead Federal agency for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) research and a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Council is composed of physicians, scientists, licensed CAM practitioners, and members of the public who contribute their time and expertise over a 4-year term. Members meet three times per year offering advice and recommendations on prioritization, conduct, and support of CAM research, including research training and communication of evidence-based health information. Dr. Lin holds professorships in developmental and cell biology, physiology and biophysics, and biomedical engineering at the University of California, Irvine, CA, (UCI). He also serves on the advisory board and faculty of UCI's Susan Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine. His primary research interests include Qigong and Energy Medicine. Read about his recent research on the bioenergetic effects of Qigong.

• Research Confirms Meditation Lowers Blood Pressure
  Researchers at the College of Medicine at the University of Kentucky reported in the American Journal of Hypertension that meditation has the potential to significantly reduce blood pressure. The full abstract can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• Tolle's Book is Oprah Book Club Pick
  As Oprah's book club pick, "A New Earth, Awakening to Your Life's Purpose" by Eckhart Tolle (on page 158 of his exciting new book) extols the virtues of Tai Chi and Qigong as playing an important role in the global awakening of humanity. Eckart Tolle and Oprah will teach A New Earth in Oprah's classroom live Monday nights on oprah.com. The first class is Monday, March 3 at 9/8c. You can reserve a seat for this free web event on oprah.com. Watch Oprah explain her selection of this book.

• Chinese Research Shows Qigong and Acupuncture Superior to Drugs
  Recent research from China demonstrates that a combination of earpoint tapping (Qigong self-massage) and acupuncture is superior to medication for the treatment of residual neuralgia of shingles (herpes zoster) and painful menstruation (primary dysmenorrhea). In addition, acupuncture was found very effective for treating peripheral facial paralysis and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain. The full abstracts on this research can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• NACCAM Symposium Recommends Yoga and Acupuncture for Lower Back Pain
  Back pain and other back problems are the number-one reason that Americans use CAM therapies, according to a large national survey. Researchers at a September 2007 meeting of the National Advisory Council for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NACCAM) reported that yoga is an effective treatment for Lower Back Pain (LBP). Also, acupuncture added to usual care was better than usual care alone and better than sham acupuncture. More information on the symposium and therapies for lower back pain can be found in the Fall 2007 issue of the CAM at the NIH newsletter .

• Study Finds Tai Chi Significantly Improves Health of Adults
  A recent study at the China Medical University in Taiwan shows adults gain increased vitality, social-functioning, physical functioning, and general health through the practice of Tai Chi versus a control group. The full abstract can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• U. of Maryland Requests Support for Scientific Study of Qigong/Taiji Healing
  The University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine (CIM) is an internationally recognized leader in the field of integrative medicine. As a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Center of Excellence for over 13 years and the first US academic medical center program for integrative medicine, CIM has teamed up with some renowned qigong and Taiji healers to conduct a series of scientific studies of qigong/Taiji therapy for health problems such as arthritis, asthma, fibromyalgia, addiction and infertility, in randomized controlled trials. More information about this research is available in Support for Scientific Study of Qigong/Taiji Healing and in a posting on the Qigong Institute tribe. More information on CIM and its Qigong program can be found at www.compmed.umm.edu .

• Meditation and Relaxation Training Found Effective for Headaches
  Randomized control trials at the University of Texas Medical Center found that mind-body therapies including meditation and relaxation training were effective in significantly reducing the symptoms of migraine, tension, and mixed-type headaches with minimal or transient side-effects. The full abstract can be found in the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™ .

• Qigong on Public Television
  Starting in 1999, PBS stations across the country began showing Francesco Garripoli's Qigong documentary, Qigong - Ancient Chinese Healing for the 21st Century(available from kahunavally.org). David Carradine's (of the TV series Kung Fu fame) Qigong has also been shown. Continuing the tradition of introducing the public to Qigong, Lee's Holden's Qigong is being shown on public television in the San Francisco Bay Area as is a series on Tai Chi.

• Qigong Endorsed on Oprah Winfrey Show
  On November 1, 2007 the first of a two-part series by Dr. Oz aired. Oz was asked out of all the health practices that one could do, what was the one practice that he would choose and recommend people practice to stay healthy. His response: "If you want to be healthy and live to 100, do QiGong." He added that Qigong reverses the aging process. The second part of the Oprah series was on Monday, November 6, 2007. Dr. Oz interviewed a couple who had been very over weight with many illness. Previously, he started them onto a program of better nutrition and a Qigong practice. They now have lost much of the weight, improved their energy, decreased most medication and reversed their aging. These improvements are attributed to Qigong and eating better.

• New Book on Mind-Body Medicine: Mind-Body and Relaxation Research Focus
  Nova Publishers has announced the coming availability of a new book on mind-body and relaxation research entitled Mind-Body and Relaxation Research Focus. Mind-Body and relaxation research emphasize mind-body interactions with intended benefits that include relaxation and emotional well being. Mind-body and relaxation therapies have been shown to effective in many cases of chronic conditions, rehabilitation, stress reduction, increasing immunity, reduction of muscular system tension, lowering blood pressure, arthritis and increasing mental well-being. This new book presents recent and significant research in the field. The Qigong Institute contributed the lead Expert Commentary for the book: Qigong - Profound Energy-Based Health Therapy to Complement Established Western Medical Practices. The book is currently being formatted and is expected to be published 1st Quarter, 2008.

• Integrative Medicine Consulting Service Established at the NIH Clinical Center
  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine ( NCCAM ) has established an Integrative Medicine Consulting Service at the National Institutes of Health ( NIH ) Clinical Center, the world’s largest hospital devoted to research. This service will provide physicians, nurses, and other members of the Clinical Cnete health care team the ability to discuss complementary and alternative medicine ( CAM ) therapies with knowledgeable medical staff from the consult service and learn how various CAM practices might complement or interact with a patient's care as a research participant at the Clinical Center. For more information: Read the NIH PressZoom .

• Tai Chi May Increase the Effectiveness of Flu Vaccine 
  A team of University of Illinois researchers suggests older adults who adopt an exercise regimen combining Taiji and Qigong might receive an extra boost from their annual flu vaccine. "We have found that 20 weeks of Taiji can increase the antibody response to influenza vaccine in older adults," said the study's lead author, Adjunct Professor Yang Yang, a Taiji master. Read the article: Chinese exercise may help flu vaccine. A more detailed article can be found in the the Sept-Oct 2007 Qi Dao Newsletter .

• 5 of the Top 10 Complementary Medical Treatments From Mayo Clinic are Qigong 
  The Philadelphia Bulletin reports that lifestyle changes (complementary medicine) may be more effective in dealing with treatment and prevention of disease than drugs and surgery. The article highlights the Top 10 Complementary Treatments from the Mayo Clinic that include Tai Chi, Meditation, Massage, Visualization, and Spirituality which are all forms of Qigong practice.

• Tai Chi Boosts Immunity, Helps Elderly Fend Off Shingles and Chronic Conditions of Aging 
  A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society describes the "striking immunity-boosting effect" of Tai Chi. Tai Chi "builds aerobic conditioning. It relaxes the body's response to stress, which tends to intensify as people age. And it increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain". People doing Tai Chi fared much better than those who received a vaccine. Participants also reported that Tai Chi was calming, energizing, and helped improve balance. Researchers reported that Tai Chi "pointed to a new way - in this case, a pleasant and accessible form of exercise - to help combat the many chronic conditions that accelerate with age." Read the entire article which appeared in the Los Angeles Times: In Harmony For Health - Graceful Tai Chi Appears To Boost Immunity, Including Helping Elderly Fend Off Shingles.

• Tai Chi Master Takes Part in Biomechanical Research at Stanford 
  One of China's top Tai Chi Masters, Chen Xiang, performed Chen style Tai Chi for researchers at the Motion and Gait Analysis Laboratory at Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford. Reflective markers were attached at key body joints, and his movements were recorded. The researchers who gathered to watch the demonstration were stunned by Chen's ability. He moved so fast and with such force that sensors kept flying off his body. Computer models created of his movements will be compared to projections of ideal biomechanical movement. The researchers felt that his particular Tai Chi movements would probably be as close as humanly possible to the ideal. The research is especially interesting because it will involve identifying which parts of the brain control which movements, in other words, the architecture and chemistry of human movement. Read the entire article: Advancing science of poetry in motion.

• How Qigong is Transforming Health Care
  Looking for an overview of how Qigong is beginning to transform the delivery of healthcare and medicine? Interested in learning about the "healer within" and how each of us can take more responsibility for our own healthcare? Want to understand the benefits of health care based on maximizing well-being instead of healing disease ("When healthcare profitibility is dependent on keeping people powerless...the truth about an individual's power to heal his or her self is repressed")? Read an interview with Oriental Medical Doctor Roger Jahnke in EXPLORE magazine where he explains in more detail the profound health benefits of Qigong and how people can actually heal themselves: A Conspiracy of Miracles: Qi, Spirit-Mind-Body, and the Transformation of Healthcare.

• NY Times praises Qigong - 'Exercisers Slow it Down With Qigong' - April 5, 2007
  "The face of exercise is changing in America. Instead of relentlessly pursuing a sculptured physique, people are chasing longevity, stress reduction and improved health through mind-body practices like qigong. The realm of working out has shifted from people just wanting to build bulk and lean, toned muscles to them understanding that the inner health of the body is just as important as the outer health." Read the entire article.

• The Qigong Institute Donation Program  Please support the Qigong Institute with the donations of equipment see Word document for details Donation Program... or click here to visit our Donations page If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to the Qigong Institute, please click on the "donate" button below. We thank you for helping to support the non-profit work we are doing.

• Notice of Prize for Meritorious Activity 
  to Kenneth M. Sancier, Ph.D.

  Dr. Ken Sancier, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of the Qigong Institute received the Meritorious Activity Prize of the International Society of Life Information Science (ISLIS). Dr. Sancier has carried out research on qigong for many years. He has been an Editor of the Journal of ISLIS since its foundation and performed an important role on a global basis as Chairperson of the ISLIS California Information Center He has compiled the Qigong and Energy Medicine Database™. The Database is used by many libraries and is referenced all over the world.