Therapies
Description:
Qigong (or ch’i kung) uses breathing techniques and slow graceful movements to develop qi and is said to improve health. Although qigong is often confused with martial arts or tai chi, qigong is usually much slower and focuses on the “qi” aspect to a much greater degree. With more than 10,000 styles of qigong and 200 million people practicing there are a variety of methods. Qigong is a “type” of meditation.See the following video clips from www.nqa.org for an example.
Who it may help:
Healing Qigong (Yi Gong). Healing Qigong (sometimes translated “Medical Qigong”) is the preventive and self-healing aspect of Chinese medicine. We are all exposed to stress. Qigong teaches us how to control our reactions to stress so that life events do not cause such symptoms as high blood pressure, frustration, or anxiety. Healthy people practice qigong to become super-healthy. Healers use qigong to prevent “healer burn-out” and to maintain a positive presence. (taken from www.qigonghealing.com)Qigong may be used for several reasons but it may be most helpful to servicemembers/family to gain strength, improve health or reverse a disease process.
Who can perform Qigong:
Because qigong includes both dynamic and gentle techniques that can be practiced from standing, seated, or supine postures, it is suitable for young and old. Practices can be tailored to individual needs making it an ideal aid to recovery from illness or injury. Qigong is a form of complementary medicine. It works well with other forms of therapy and should never be used as a substitute for necessary treatment by a physician. (taken from www.qigonghealing.com)Where to find Qigong Teachers:
www.qigonginstitute.org has list of instructors by state, www.qigonghealing.com is the host site of Ken Cohen, a highly respected teacher of Qigong. There are links to purchase his books, CD’s and DVD’s. www.nqa.org (National Qigong Association) has a list of teachers in different states.There is no national standard for Qigong teachers. It is always a good practice to ask where the teacher has been trained, how many years they have had of practice and to compare locally to see if fees are reasonable.
It is also always a good practice to inform your primary care physician and care team of your interest and get their input.
Another good source of Qigong information can be found at http://www.qigonghealingarts.org
Will insurance cover Qigong Instruction:
Qigong is not covered by insurance as best as can be discerned. It may be possible that if qigong were incorporated into some reimbursable therapeutic settings, that there may be some coverage. It never hurts to ask.Note: VFU provides this comprehensive view of healing techniques for your convenience, but does not endorse nor recommend any specific technique. VFU does not guarantee results or outcomes from any of the materials listed on this website.
