Qigong
Qigong (or Chi Kung) can roughly be translated as “skill cultivated through working with qi.”
In traditional Chinese medicine, 'qi' ('chi') is a fundamental concept associated with vitality, function and the processes of life.
Qigong is therefore a broad term for practices that work with the body, breath and mind to cultivate health, awareness and internal development.
Qi (or Chi) is difficult to translate into modern Western terms. Traditionally, it is understood as something connected with the vitality and activity of life.
Some people understand this quite literally as a form of vital energy, while others find it more useful to think of qi in terms of breath, circulation, nervous system regulation, bodily awareness and the many interconnected processes that allow us to function as a whole.
You do not need to hold any particular belief about qi to practise or benefit from Qigong.
The roots of Qigong stretch back into ancient Chinese traditions of health cultivation, meditation, movement and the martial arts. Qigong movements are usually slow, gentle and deliberate, combining posture, flowing movement, breathing and focused awareness.
They may involve simple repeated actions, standing practices or sequences of movements designed to develop relaxation, coordination, balance and a deeper connection between body and mind. The movements themselves are often uncomplicated, but the quality of attention brought to them is what allows the practice to deepen over time.
The slow, focused practise of Tai Chi can turn it into a powerful method of Qigong.