Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice where gentle movements, conscious breathing, and inner awareness flow together. Through this living meditation, your life energy – known as Qi – is strengthened and harmonized, inviting you into a space of stillness, presence, and healing.
When you practise Qigong, you give yourself a gift:
a pause from the noise of everyday life – a return to your natural rhythm.
🌬️ More energy and vitality
Qigong helps energy flow freely by dissolving internal blockages. This can awaken vitality, clarity, and a renewed sense of joy.
🫧 Less stress – more calm
The slow, flowing movements, guided by the breath, help settle the nervous system and quiet the mind. You return to your body – relaxed, grounded, and clear.
💗 Stronger health
Qigong supports the heart, digestion, circulation, and immune system. Many experience better sleep, reduced pain, and a more supple, balanced body.
🧠 Clarity and focus
The meditative nature of Qigong enhances concentration, self-awareness, and decision-making. You feel more aligned – within and without.
🌱 Self-love and connection
Qigong deepens your connection to body and soul. You rediscover your rhythm and learn to live in harmony with what truly nourishes you.
🌙 Spiritual depth
Qigong can also be a gentle but powerful spiritual practice – a way to connect more deeply with nature, life, and the greater whole. A quiet path home to yourself.
Zertifiziertes Mitglied der Schweizerischen Gesellschaft für Qigong und Taijiquan
Qigong (also spelled chi kung or chi gung) is a holistic practice that integrates movement, posture, breath regulation, and focused intention. Rooted in ancient Chinese culture, it draws from Daoist philosophy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and centuries of meditative and spiritual practice. The word “Qigong” is made up of two Chinese characters: Qi (气) meaning “life energy” or “vital force,” and Gong (功) meaning “work,” “skill,” or “cultivation.” Thus, Qigong can be understood as the art of cultivating life energy.
The origins of Qigong trace back several thousand years, making it one of the oldest known health practices. Its development is deeply entwined with early Chinese understandings of nature, the body, and the cosmos. While it’s difficult to pinpoint a single origin, archaeological findings and historical records suggest that early forms of Qigong were practiced by shamans and Daoist sages as part of ritual, healing, and spiritual cultivation.
As early as the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), texts and illustrations reveal practices that resemble Qigong, particularly in Daoist and healing contexts. One of the earliest known references is the Dao Yin Tu, a silk scroll discovered in the Mawangdui tombs, depicting a series of exercises meant to guide and harmonize the flow of Qi.
By the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), these practices were collectively referred to as Dao Yin – literally meaning “guiding and stretching.” Dao Yin emphasized breath regulation, gentle stretching, and visualization to support internal harmony and prevent illness. It laid the groundwork for what would later evolve into distinct Qigong systems, often practiced alongside herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary therapy.
Over the following centuries, Qigong diversified into many lineages and purposes: some focused on health and longevity, others on martial strength (as seen in Shaolin and Wudang traditions), and still others on spiritual awakening through inner alchemy (Neidan). Knowledge was transmitted orally or through tightly held texts, often passed down in temples or within master-disciple relationships in Daoist and Buddhist communities.
In modern times, Qigong underwent significant transformation. Following the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, many traditional practices were discouraged or suppressed, particularly during the Cultural Revolution(1966–1976). However, in the late 1970s and 1980s, Qigong gained official recognition as a valuable health practice. The government encouraged its study and promotion, leading to the development of standardized forms like Health Qigongand increased scientific research into its physiological and psychological benefits.
Today, Qigong is practiced around the world, both in its traditional forms and in more modern, medically oriented adaptations. It is valued for its ability to support physical health, emotional balance, stress reduction, and spiritual connection. While lineages and techniques vary, the essence of Qigong remains the same: cultivating and harmonizing the life force within to live with greater vitality, awareness, and inner peace.
Qigong is accessible to everyone—regardless of age, health condition, or fitness level. Movements can be done standing, sitting, or even lying down. The philosophy of “less is more” applies: small, gentle movements can have a powerful effect when performed with presence and intention.
People from all walks of life can benefit from Qigong. Whether you are seeking better health, more energy, stress relief, emotional balance, or spiritual connection, Qigong offers a gentle, effective path.
Learning Qigong is less about achieving perfection and more about deepening your connection with your body. It’s a journey of inner awareness, self-compassion, and rediscovering your natural rhythm.
In essence, Qigong is a tool for self-healing and personal growth—open to anyone with the willingness to explore.
There are different views on the ideal time for Qigong. Some prefer early morning at sunrise, while others enjoy evening sessions. Personally, I’ve found that Qigong can be nourishing at many times—whether in the morning, late morning, afternoon, or evening. The key is to find what suits you.
Many people enjoy evening practice because it helps unwind after the day and promotes restful sleep. Personally, I like to practise around 9:00 in the morning or 8:00 in the evening.
What matters most is consistency. Like brushing your teeth, even five minutes is better than nothing. Ideally, give yourself 30–60 minutes a day to fully enjoy the benefits. Qigong is not just an exercise—it’s a way of life you can adapt to your own rhythm.
Yes—practising outdoors is a beautiful experience. It connects you with the Qi of nature—the sounds, the light, the energy of the earth and sky. It strengthens your concentration, helps balance your inner energy, and brings a sense of joy and presence. Nature becomes a silent partner in your practice—music for the soul.
Being outdoors also helps you focus inward, away from daily distractions. But it’s important to find a place where you feel safe, as Qigong often includes closing the eyes or softening your gaze. Choose a clean, quiet, and energetically supportive space.
Avoid practising in strong wind, as it can disturb your energy (according to Traditional Chinese Medicine). A light breeze is fine. It’s okay to practise in the rain if you’re well protected. Just remember to dress warmly, especially in cooler weather, so your body stays relaxed.
Let yourself enjoy the connection—with your breath, your body, and the world around you.
Enjoy your practice. May it nourish your body, center your mind, and awaken your spirit.
Practicing Qigong in nature can enhance the experience and provide additional benefits. Here are some key points about practicing Qigong in nature:
Connection with natural surroundings: Being in nature helps establish a deeper connection with the environment and the elements around you. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can create a calming and peaceful atmosphere that enhances your Qigong practice.
Energy exchange: Nature is abundant with energy, and practicing Qigong outdoors allows you to absorb and interact with the natural energy of the environment. Many people find that being surrounded by trees, plants, and open spaces enhances the flow of qi within their bodies.
Fresh air and natural elements: Breathing in fresh air while practicing Qigong outdoors can promote a sense of vitality and well-being. You can also benefit from exposure to sunlight, which provides essential vitamin D and helps regulate your circadian rhythm.
Enhanced relaxation and stress reduction: Nature has a soothing effect on the mind and body. When practicing Qigong in a natural setting, you can experience a deeper sense of relaxation, improved mental clarity, and reduced stress levels. The natural environment can help you let go of daily worries and distractions.
Increased mindfulness: Being in nature encourages mindfulness and presence. You can observe the subtle changes in the environment, focus on the sensations in your body, and become more attuned to the present moment. This mindfulness can deepen your Qigong practice and promote overall well-being.
Harmonizing with natural cycles: Qigong follows the principles of Yin and Yang, which are fundamental concepts in Chinese philosophy. Practicing Qigong in nature allows you to align with the rhythms and cycles of the natural world, promoting balance and harmony within yourself.
Opportunities for grounding exercises: Nature provides various surfaces and terrains for grounding exercises, such as standing or walking on grass, sand, or earth. Grounding techniques help you connect with the Earth’s energy and restore balance to your body and mind.
Remember, when practicing Qigong in nature, choose a safe and peaceful location where you can concentrate without interruptions. Pay attention to your surroundings, dress appropriately for the weather, and ensure you have sufficient space for your movements. Enjoy the benefits of combining the ancient practice of Qigong with the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.
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