The Health Benefits of Qi Gong Explained

Qi Gong (or Chee Kung) is an ancient practice based on Chinese philosophy, medicine and martial arts. While many different styles exist, they’re all fundamentally based on the combination of deep breathing skills and gentle, fluid movements.

These movements are used to teach awareness of the body, current emotions and your surroundings. The physical aspects encourage good posture, and link to the meditative practice of mindfulness and living in the present moment.

This interlinked meditative focus of Qi Gong can support in-the-moment stress relief, and helps build skills to manage ongoing stress throughout the day.

The word “qi” refers to life-energy, which can be cultivated and balanced to improve the health of mind, body and spirit. “Gong” means practice, or work which brings personal reward, and is the same Chinese word used in “kung fu”.

Qi Gong combines slow, controlled movement with breath control and focused attention. In a workplace setting, it’s used to support stress management, physical mobility and mental clarity — not as a clinical or medical treatment. More rigorous studies are needed in Western medicine to confirm the size of these effects.

Qi Gong is suitable for all ages and abilities, and requires only gentle exercise. It is ideal for a group class or session. See our corporate Qi Gong classes page for more information on bringing the stress management skills and health benefits to your organisation.

• meditation
• mental health
• workplace wellbeing