Relaxing the Chinese Way

In the latest of our series on unusual ways to get healthy, Katie Baldwin tried out the ancient Chinese practice of Qigong.
WITH exercises called things like "pulling nine cows by the tail", it could be hard to take Qigong seriously.But watch this art performed ¨C or better still try it ¨C and it's clear just how hard it is to perfect. You've probably heard of tai chi, but possibly not Qigong. It comprises regulated breathing and deliberate, slow movements to reach various poses. Originally part of traditional Chinese medicine, the aim is to bring together breathing, body and mind as one for both physical and mental benefits.
Thousands of people all over China practise Qigong and to promote its benefits, Health Qigong has been developed. It includes four sets of exercises specifically aimed at improving health, with Medical Qigong recognised in Chinese hospitals and part of the country's National Health Plan. Watching it being practised in Leeds, it is easy to see how it helps maintain a healthy mind, if not body too.
Three practitioners visiting the city from China move slowly and effortlessly from pose to pose. Every movement is deliberate, measured and supremely relaxing to watch ¨C no wonder that the practice is also linked to meditation. Organised by Leeds City Council and the University of Leeds, the visit by members of the Chinese Health Qigong Association saw people throughout the city try out the practice. And the reaction from people in Leeds was very positive. Classes at Leeds University were packed and the enthusiasm from learners at the University of the Third Age particularly impressed the delegation. But as I learned, watching Qigong and trying it out are quite different things. Standing next to the three experts I thought I'd copied their poses fairly accurately. But a few adjustments later showed the position of my hands, or feet, weren't quite right. As well as classes at the university and the Chinese Community Association, there was also a special civic reception for the group hosted by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Leeds, Reverend Councillor Alan Taylor.
From TCM Forum: Relaxing the Chinese Way
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