Qi-gong is an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention. Qi-gong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions.

Qi-gong practices can be classified as martial, medical or spiritual. All styles have three things in common: they involve a posture, whether moving or stationary; breathing techniques; and mental focus. Some practices increase the qi; others circulate it, use it to cleanse and heal the body, store it or emit qi to help heal others. Many health care professionals recommend qi-gong as an important form of alternative complementary medicine. The various forms of Chinese medical massage (Tui-na) derive directly from qi-gong. These practices compliment and supplement conventional medical interventions.

The goal of practicing qi-gong is to make qi circulate strongly in the body. When the immune system is strong, one is emotionally centered within one's body, and qi and blood are flowing freely, then most diseases should disappear.

The gentle, rhythmic movements of qi-gong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality and enhance the immune system. Those who maintain a consistent practice of qi-gong find it helps restore a youthful vitality, maintain health even into old age and speed recovery from illness. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.

According to Chinese medical thought, qi-gong can prevent and cure such illness as asthma, diabetes, hypertension and cancer that are considered partially remediless by conventional medicine. Practice of qi-gong can speed recovery from surgery and from sports and other injuries by up to 50 percent (McGee w/Chow 1994:17-9).

Practicing qi-gong lowers blood pressure, pulse rates, metabolic rates, lactate production and oxygen demand. It raises the endocrine system's capabilities and has a regulating effect on the substances cyclic adenosine monophosphate and cyclic guanosine monophosphate, which play basic roles in respiration and the provision of oxygen to the body's cells.

The sense of serenity qi-gong produces results partly from a slightly increased body temperature and an increased rate of oxygen absorption. Qi-gong activates qi, improves blood circulation and balances yin yang. Qi-gong is also very effective for overcoming different psychological problems. It bolsters the immune system and stimulates the conductivity of the meridians and channels through which qi flows (Dong & Esser 1994:94-6).

Western scientific research confirms that qi-gong reduces hypertension and the incidence of falling in the aged population. One of the more important long-term effects is that qi-gong reestablishes the connection between body, mind, and soul.