Wild goose qigong is a traditional form of physical and meditative exercise from China. Based on Taoist and Buddhist philosophy, it is also known as dayan qigong and was created by the monks in the Kunlun mountains several thousands of years ago. There are over 72 qigong forms and some of these were first made available to the general public by Grandmaster Yang Meijun in the late 1970s.
The word qigong is made up from the combination of the word qi, which means the vital life energy, and the word gong, which stands for the benefits that are acquired from constant perseverance and practice. Qigong, in essence, means the proper management of the life energy. By performing qigong movements and meditation, practitioners can activate and open up their energy channels, and thereby lead a more fulfilled and healthy existence.
The physical movements in wild goose qigong are inspired by the movements of the wild geese, birds that have long been revered in China for their longevity and grace. The Kunlun monks spent a lot of time observing the wild geese and incorporated the various natural and graceful motions and postures of these birds in the various wild goose qigong forms. The wild goose qigong is one of the more gentle and rhythmic of the various types of Chinese meditation practices; like tai chi, it does not require too much physical exertion, and it is easy to learn.
Performing this form of qigong can bring about inner peace and relaxation in the practitioner. The qigong movements are intended to develop and enhance the qi energy in a sensitive, non-forceful way. The two main points that qigong places great emphasis on are doing nothing, called wu-wei in Chinese, and reducing awareness to the bare minimum, known as tuo-yi. By practicing dynamic, static and meditative qigong forms, practitioners allow themselves to go naturally and unresistingly with the life flow. They may be aided with qigong accessories like herbal concoctions and massage aids.
There are many health benefits to practicing the wild goose qigong. It is said to strengthen the immune system and the nervous system. It is also known to promote blood circulation, enhance respiration, improve digestion and prevent constipation. For these reasons, wild goose qigong remains popular in China and qigong classes are gathering adherents in many other parts of the world as well. The exercise does not require any elaborate preparation and can be easily fitted into busy schedules.
