Tai Chi and Qigong

Tai chi and qigong (say "chee goong") are traditional Chinese movement exercises. They are based on two ideas:

• Energy, called qi or chi, flows through the body along "energy pathways" called meridians. If the flow of qi is blocked or unbalanced at any point on a pathway, it is thought that you may become ill. You do tai chi and qigong to increase energy (qi) flow and improve health through gentle, graceful, repeated movements.
• Nature, including the body, consists of opposing forces called yin and yang. Good health results when these forces are in balance. You do tai chi and qigong movements in an attempt to help restore the body's balance of yin and yang.

Tai chi is a series of movements done either very slowly or quickly to help move the body's qi. People use tai chi as a way to combine meditation and movement and to improve and maintain health.

Qigong involves different movements that may be done in different orders. Some common qigong movements include raising and lowering the arms, moving the head from side to side, and gently rubbing the ears, feet, and hands.