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Qigong

氣功 / 气功

A listing is not a recommendation.

Origin: China · Tradition: Movement in traditional Chinese medicine and yojo · Movement

What it is

A Chinese mind–body movement practice that brings together posture, breathing, and attention. It ranges from still standing (zhan zhuang) to moving forms.

A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)

Start from an introductory class with a reliable teacher, or a well-described form (such as Baduanjin).
Do not force the breath to be held for a long time.
Stop if you feel dizzy or have chest pain.

Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice

Stress or unease
Tiredness
Balance and fall prevention
Breathing
Low back pain
Blood pressure (general mention)

Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)

B: Randomised trials or systematic reviews exist, but reports are modest, the group studied is limited, or study quality is limited

NCCIH summarises that there is research on qigong for balance, some pain, quality of life, and psychological symptoms. Study quality varies, and there are many schools.

Sources

Safety notes

Do not let forced breathing methods, or unsupported “emitting qi”, delay care. Watch for falls.

If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.

Situations in which this is better avoided

A heavy load in unstable heart disease
Severe balance problems when safe teaching is not available