What’s the Difference Between Tai Chi & Qigong
The short answer is that tai chi has martial arts applications and is done standing and moving while qigong also includes forms that are done seated and is more focused on internal self-care practices. “So”, you may ask, “how are they similar?” “Can I do these practices if I have health issues?” Or... “What is this thing called Qi?” Let’s start with the last question.
Long, long ago before Star Wars movies - about 5,000 years before - Chinese sages in this galaxy discovered that all living things have vital life force and they called that force, Qi (also spelled Chi; both pronounced “chee”). Qi flows through and animates all living matter from humans to bugs, from blades of grass to redwood trees and even Mother Earth herself. Like air, you cannot see Qi but you can sense it and, especially when air or Qi are moving, you can feel its effects.
The ancient sages and shamans also learned how to guide Qi to specific areas within their bodies for health and well-being. They called these techniques qigong, which most simply translates to “energy practice”. Today, there are thousands of forms of qigong, all of which use gentle movement, breath work, visualization and meditative practices. The various qigong practices generally fall within three categories:
* Medical – for health & healing
* Martial – for physical power and self-defense (tai chi & kung fu)
* Spiritual – for elevating your spirit to merge again with the Divine
So, tai chi is actually a branch of qigong! Though tai chi is also called “meditation in motion”, it was developed specifically for self-defense. Tai chi forms all have a specific set of moving sequences, so it can take more time to memorize the movements. Because it’s only done while standing, tai chi requires the new practitioner to be in a bit better physical condition. The good news is, according to Harvard University studies, with regular practice tai chi improves muscle strength and flexibility, physical balance and cognitive functioning.
Are the benefits of Qigong the same as Tai Chi?
Yes, due to its more fluid, repetitive nature, moving forms of qigong also improve physical flexibility. Sitting or standing forms of qigong have additional benefits including:
~ relieves internal stress
~ improves cognitive functioning and mental clarity
~ facilitates emotional balance
~ reduces blood pressure and anxiety
Qigong's great appeal is that everyone can benefit, regardless of ability, age, belief system or life circumstances. You don’t need special equipment to practice any of the forms. Even practicing just 10-12 minutes several times a week is beneficial for your whole being. Better still, you do not need to move to a distant galaxy or become monk-like in order to achieve great benefit. These days you can find qigong and tai chi classes right here in Indy and you don't need to hijack a space ship to get there.
May the Qi be with you!
Written by LinDel Sandlin, Tai Chi Shaman
This article was originally published in the Holistic Living Magazine (2024)