Qigong training has many benefits that become evident with extensive practice. One usually does not leave a qigong training session feeling as though one has exercised, but the postures and breathing associated with qigong do help practitioners stay in shape. Many people find that qigong primarily provides both mental and physical relaxation. The exact benefits one takes away from qigong training depend both on who is providing the lessons and what one seeks from the practice.
Most qigong courses involve breathing techniques, posture, and mental focus. In addition to instruction in how to physically perform the exercises associated with qigong, students typically learn the philosophy of the art as well. Having something to be interested in and a group of people to learn with can provide benefits on its own, but qigong training does provide a number of demonstrable physical and mental benefits as well.
Typically, qigong's most noticeable benefit is a reduction in stress. This is partly due to the rhythmic nature of qigong and partly due to its emphasis on mental focus. Stress reduction is very important because it can trigger a number of other health benefits, such as an improved immune system or reduction in muscle pain.
Practitioners of qigong also argue that this kind of exercise increases vitality, improves cardiovascular function, and improves circulation. The actual study of qigong, which includes learning concepts that may be complex or foreign to the student, can improve mental function simply by exercising the mind. Benefits also depend on how the course is taught, who the teacher is, and what kind of qigong is being performed. Qigong must be taught by a trained professional in order to be effective, although a student’s faith and focus also play a major role in the success of the training.
The benefits one experiences from qigong training also depend on who is taking the course. For example, a child undertaking qigong training might learn self-control and focus, while an adult might learn to put the stress of the world outside of his or her mind. Qigong often provides a sense of being centered and at peace, whether one needs to slow down or speed up one's life.
There is little argument that qigong training can provide relaxation and improved breathing techniques. It is considered less reasonable to count among qigong's many benefits any serious medical healing, such as relief from cancer or any other serious illness. While qigong can be used to assist in the healing and rehabilitation process, it is not on its own considered an appropriate replacement for these processes. As such, any claim of extreme health benefits should be treated with caution.
