Qigong Stretches | Gracie Ang

What is Qigong?

With roots in TCM, martial arts, and philosophy, Qigong is the practice of cultivating and balancing qi (chi) through breath, movement, and awareness. Qigong literally means “Life Energy Cultivation” or “Energy Work.” Qigong techniques are used for exercise, healing, and meditation. The practice of Qigong emphasizes proper posture, breathing, and mental focus to guide qi through the body. From a philosophical perspective, Qigong is believed to help awaken our true nature.

Qigong in Chinese – Means “Energy Work” or “Life Energy Cultivation”

Qigong Breathing and Movement

What are Qigong stretches?

Cultivating Energy with Correct Breathing

Qigong stretches are performed to calm the mind, increase circulation, remove stagnation, enhance strength, increase flexibility, and invigorate the body by cultivating intrinsic energy (qi).

When performing Qigong stretches pay close attention to your breathing, aligning it with your movement. Do not strain yourself. Stretches should NOT create sharp pain. Instead, you should feel your muscles, tendons, and ligaments react to the stretching movement. It should feel more like a “yawn” with your muscles in a state of relaxed, dynamic tension.

Qigong stretches have proven to be particularly helpful in preventing and treating back pain and neck pain.