Spa Therapies Of China
Qi Gong:
The term ‘qi gong‘, which means working with or mastering qi, was coined in the 1930s to cover an extensive system of therapeutic breathing, and postural and moving exercises. Chinese arts such as qi gong and tai ji are based on the manipulation of qi through a system of exercises, and have been practised since ancient times as a way of improving fitness, managing health and ensuring longevity.
Qi gong methods vary according to the schools from which they originate. Shaolin qi gong, for instance, started as a form of martial arts for the Shaolin Temples. Some fascinating names for the exercises it propagates include ‘Pushing Eight Horses Forward’, ‘Pulling the Golden Ring with One Hand’ and ‘Lifting up the Cauldron’, which use ‘scrubbing’, ‘shaking’ and ‘revolving’ techniques respectively. If correctly executed on a regular basis, these exercises can help you develop a dynamic and powerful internal strength based on qi.
Tai Ji:
Tai ji (literally ‘supreme ultimate fist’) is a gentler and more graceful art form than qi gong, but it has a similar regimen of exercises designed to develop inner stamina and circulate energy. It consists of a series of movements called a ‘form’ and can take anything from five to 30 minutes to perform. Tai ji exercises include those that help to regulate the body by means of both moving and stationary positions, the breath by means of breathing exercises, and the mind through visualisation and concentration techniques. Through these means, not only is the physical body exercised, but the energy systems of the body are also stimulated and mental functions enhanced, encouraging a higher level of consciousness, and resulting in an overall improvement in the quality of life.
