Description of a Session
Qigong healing can either be done by a master who projects qi to the patient or through self-practice. Although all students may begin their practice in similar ways, the journey to becoming a master involves much more study and practice than the average practitioner of Qigong devotes to the their development.

Form, energy and mind are the essential components of qigong practice. The exercises alone are not considered sufficient to train one’s qi. To succeed at regulating qi, “a qi kung state of mind” must be attained. Some might compare this to a “zen-like” or meditative state of mind. In this state, energy can be directed wherever it is needed in the body.

Qigong sessions, regardless of school, generally consist of postural movements, deep breathing techniques, visualizations and meditation. These can be tailored to the individual’s physical limitations so that anyone can practice. While qigong can be learned by following instructional books or videos, students are strongly encouraged to attend classes given by professionals.

Loose comfortable clothing should be worn to sessions. Exercises have three components— visualizing, moving and breathing. To improve one’s health, a few exercises may suffice. But to truly achieve lasting benefit, practice and discipline come into play. Practice revolves around giving time, patience and commitment, increasing awareness of breathing and thoughts, while becoming more and more adept at the actual movements. Daily practice is encouraged, but it is not recommended that progress be forced as this will only increase stress.

Breathing and imagery are an aspect of the process, focusing on visualizing the flow of energy through the body and learning to focus on the seat of qi, a point below the navel called the “dan tian” point.

At the master stage, qi has also been used externally for healing. This is energy medicine: the highest level coming out of intense meditation. As areas of weakness or excess are detected, the healer directs his/her energy to the area that needs to be stimulated or sedated in order to restore normal energy flow. Areas of excess are treated through a reduction technique wherein the qi is redirected or spread out and absorbed by surrounding areas. A strengthening technique is used for deficient conditions, in which energy from surrounding areas is redirected to the deficient one. Depending on the nature of the problem, the number of treatments varies.

Course of Treatment
In Qigong, like meditative practice, the greatest benefit is achieved through consistent and patient practice over an extended period of time. While one may experience positive results in just one session, such as feelings of calmness and relaxation, increased energy and mental clarity, or greater experience of peace and connectedness, the cumulative effects of daily practice may deepen these experiences and can lead to a greater degree of physical, psychological and spiritual change.

Side Effects
Beginners may experience a variety of symptoms that can be caused by improper posture, an agitated mind, irregular breathing, over-exercise and other common factors. Symptoms can include lightheadedness and fatigue, trembling, coldness or numbness, sweating, headaches, insomnia, coughing, pain or soreness, and anxiety. To lessen the chance of experiencing side effects, it is recommended that you study with an instructor to ensure you are doing the exercises properly and at the correct pace.

Safety Issues
Qigong masters caution against allowing one’s Qi to deviate from the correct path, which may lead to problems or injury. These can result from lack of knowledge, misunderstandings, or incorrect training methods. They are more likely to occur in practitioners who generate a strong Qi flow before they are able to master the regulation of the body, breath and mind. In this case the Qi may move into the wrong paths and affect the body’s normal Qi circulation. Dr. Jwing-Ming Yang describes causes of common Qigong deviations such as choosing a Qigong style that is inappropriate for the individual’s constitution or goals; being inconsistent in one’s training (finding a knowledgeable teacher and staying with them is recommended); expecting or forcing an experience; practicing while one’s body, breathing or mind are tired or agitated; forcing the Qi through loss of patience with the process; and shocking external disturbances such as loud noises and other interruptions while practicing, among others.

Pregnant woman should use caution, as should those recovering from a debilitating illness. It is advised that the student does not eat for at least one-two hours before practice, or engage in sexual activities at least 24 hours before or after practicing since these activities are thought to drain qi. Rest is recommended for about 1/2 hour after practice in order to cool down.

Although individuals may go to a master to receive their qi, students are advised not to try to emit their own until years of practice and under supervision. This can deplete one’s own vitality if not done properly.

Other Modalities that Work Well with this Approach
The practice of Qigong can be combined with any therapeutic modality as long as there are no contraindications due to physical or mental health conditions. Many of the mind/body techniques are felt to work well with Qigong and these are frequently studied together in clinical research trials. These include relaxation/meditation training, imagery, hypnosis, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Content last modified on Sep 4, 2003