 |
| Chi Kung practice in the mountains of Taiwan |
What is Chi Kung (Qigong)?
Chi Kung (pronounced chee gong) is a system of movement and breathing techniques that promote the flow of chi (vital energy) through the human body, improving health, promoting long life and preventing sickness and disease. Its practice helps relax the joints, increasing sensitivity throughout the body and promoting the awareness and cultivation of chi. Its breathing techniques maximize the efficiency and quality of respiration, providing a healthier method of breathing than the untrained breathing habits to which we may be accustomed.
What role does Chi Kung play in the martial arts?
Rather than using rigid strength, Kung fu emphasizes the use of power produced through the relaxed integration of the entire body. The practice of Chi Kung helps us not only to relax, but also increases sensitivity in our body, which in turn helps us control and integrate our power. It is central to our martial training because chi is regarded as being the fundamental vitality of the body as well as the hidden power within the traditional Chinese martial arts.
