Did you know that Qigong can help your body and mind be strong? Here are a few benefits that Qigong can offer to our body and mind.
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major risk factor for heart disease. Certain lifestyle habits, such as being physically inactive and chronically stressed, can cause your blood pressure to rise, leading to hypertension over time. Incorporating mind-body practices like qigong into your wellness routine, alongside your mainstream medical care plan (like medications and other forms of conventional exercise), may help move your blood pressure back to a healthy level.
- Reduces Anxiety and Depression
- Because qigong involves slowing down and fostering presence, it may benefit your mental health overall. Qigong can help relieve anxiety and stress in healthy people. Qigong may have a more immediate effect on decreasing anxiety levels when compared with only listening to music or performing structured movements.
- Relieves Chronic Pain
- When we’re in constant pain, many of us instinctively tighten up and restrict our movements — the body’s way of guarding against further discomfort. The low-impact postures in qigong help introduce gentle movement to tight, achy muscles and joints, where, according to TCM, qi can become blocked. By increasing movement, you increase circulation to facilitate healing, Bouguyon says.
- Improves Well-Being in People With Cancer
- A study found that patients with breast cancer who practiced qigong twice a week for 10 weeks reported greater improvements in quality of life than patients who received conventional medical care only. The patients who incorporated qigong into their care routine also reported less tension, anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
- Strengthens the Immune System
- Thanks to slower movements that are believed to lubricate the joints and promote the circulation of important fluids in the body (like blood, lymph, and synovial), qigong may boost your immune system as a result.
- Improves Fitness
- Qigong is generally a gentle, low-impact activity with aerobic and strength components. As such, it can be a beneficial form of exercise for many people, including those with limited mobility.
Practicing qigong may improve fitness, reduce anxiety and depression, lower blood pressure, relieve chronic pain, strengthen the immune and respiratory systems, and improve overall well-being.
Reference: 6 Potential Health Benefits of Qigong, a TCM Mind-Body Practice | Qigong: What You Need To Know | Qigong benefits, types, and how to get started