Qigong, a form of internal exercise, has a few thousand years of history in China. Qigong practice is based on relaxation, physical movement, mind-body integration, and breathing exercises. Millions of people in the world are practicing and studying Qigong by cultivating one’s life energy Qi to improve health and well being, to prevent and treat illnesses.
Benefits of Regular Qigong Exercises:

• Improves circulation, strengthens muscles, tendons, and increases bone mineral density
• Increases flexibility and decreases injuries
• Improves digestion, absorption and elimination
• Strengthens immune system, improves healing, and prevents illnesses
• Reduces stress and balances emotions,

Both Qi Gong and Tai Chi cultivate energy (Qi) and promote the circulation of Qi. Qi Gong is more meditative than Tai Chi and it does not involve as many movements. For people who have a hard time with coordination movements, Qi Gong is a much better option.  Do not make the mistake of thinking that this makes Qi Gong simpler and not challenging.Qi Gong is actually a higher level of Qi cultivation so it does not mean it is easier!

It is more difficult to reach certain levels of meditative state in Qi Gong than Tai Chi.  Some individuals after years of practicing achieve certain level, and then they can use their energy (Qi) to influence other people’s energy which is called medicinal Qi Gong.  However, for the general public practicing Qi Gong is mostly for promoting health and longevity and to enhance energy and body function.

Tai Chi can help people achieve the same goals, health and longevity, but it also trains the coordination and flexibility of the body.  If you would like to incorporate mediation in to your aerobic workout then Tai Chi is a better choice.

Reiki was developed in Japan after Qi Gong was introduced to the Japanese after it had been developed in China for over 2,000 years. Reiki is also a practice to cultivate Qi energy.  “Ki” in Reiki is the Japanese translation of “Qi” in Chinese.  There are many similar practices in Reiki as in Qi Gong.  Since Reiki was developed in Japan, there are also some different techniques. 

Reiki practiced in America is closer to medicinal Qi Gong.  Both Reiki and Qi Gong utilize Qi energy so the practitioners don’t even need to physically touch the recipient. It takes Medicinal Qi Gong practitioners in China many years of practice to cultivate strong enough energy to create “miraculous” therapeutic effects.  In Reiki it is easier for people to achieve an introductory or intermediate level than in Qi Gong; however, they are both very helpful when practiced.
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