How It Works

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The ancient Chinese practices of Tai Chi (pronounced Tie CHEE) and Qigong (pronounced CHEE-gung) combine slow, deliberate movements, meditation, and breathing exercises.

 

The routines were not designed to burn calories or raise your heart rate. Instead,

both Tai Chi and Qigong are martial arts that can help your circulation, balance,

alignment, manage pain, and help alleviate stress. All this helps restore your vital energy, called Chi or Qi (pronounced "chee").

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The low-impact moving meditations include standing and balancing. Although Qigong

and Tai Chi are excellent fitness activities for beginners and people with health

conditions, elite athletes also benefit from doing the slow movements, because

everyone needs better balance and muscle control. The postures flow together without pause, making Tai Chi and Qigong look like slow, graceful dances that keep your body in constant motion. You can take a class or do the exercises outdoors, on your own, or with a group.​

 

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Download the complementary document that cites the research studies.