Qi Gong vs Tai Chi
Qi Gong and Tai Chi are strongly related:
- Qi Gong focuses on gathering and developing energy (Qi or Chi)
- Tai Chi is based on martial arts and focuses on utilising and expending the energy gathered through Qi Qong.
The acknowledged health benefits of practicing Qi Gong and Tai Chi include:
- Relieving the physical affects of stress
- Improving mind and body integration
- Promoting deep breathing and blood flow
- Reducing blood pressure
- Relieving arthritis pain
- Improving lower body and leg strength
- Improving balance and falls prevention
Qi Gong Classes
Qigong classes involve the repetition of gentle exercises 4 to 6 times with the emphases on breathing, stretching and relaxation.
Click on the image to see an example video of the Shi Ba Shi (18 movements) Qi Gong on Youtube.
Tai Chi Classes
Tai Chi classes commence with a Qi Gong warmup followed by a Tai Chi routine which comprise a fixed set of movements which are based on martial arts but are practiced much more slowly.
Click on the image to see an example video of the Sun style Tai Chi for Health on Youtube.