Video: The 5 functions of Qi
The 5 functions of Qi
There are basically 5 different functions of Qi. Only if the Qi fulfills these tasks correctly, we are healthy. If there is a weakness in one or more functions, this leads to problems in our organism.
1. protective function: Qi protects the body from damaging influences from outside, such as heat or cold. This energy circulates just below the surface of the skin.
2. heat function: Qi takes care that the body is warm up to the extremities. If your hands and feet are not warm, it is due to a lack of energy. In the exercise "Archer" you feel this heat.
3. movement function: All physical, but also mental movements require energy. In everyday life we consume it constantly, due to our activities. Muscles and organs need a lot of energy, but also the brain requires at least 20 % of it for its daily mental performance.
4. transforming function: Qi is also responsible for the digestion and transformation of food, i.e. for metabolism. This means that what is foreign to the body is transformed into the body's own. The exercise "Connecting Heaven and Earth", which serves to strengthen the earth element and is responsible for metabolism, strengthens this function.
5. maintaining function: Qi also has the task to regulate body fluids, but especially to keep the organs in their place. If this does not work, problems with the intervertebral discs or the gliding vertebrae occur and organ subsidence occurs. Just as you remain stable in a position during the exercise, "Standing like a tree", the Qi also has the function of keeping all structures in their place.
If possible, do half an hour of qigong a day. If you are busy and don't have time, do one hour of qigong.
Chinese proverb
Video: The 8 directions of movement of Qi
The 8 directions of movement of Qi Gong
There are basically 8 directions of movement that we use in qigong. These are composed of 4 pairs of opposite directions. The directions of movement must be observed during the execution of the movements and always kept in mind.
They allow to give the outer movement a deeper quality and it results in its own Qi - dynamics. If these 8 directions of movement flow into a movement, it becomes harmonious and the person healthy, it is said in China.
1. rise and fall - Exercises: Awaken qi, part clouds.
2. open and close - Exercises: Open heart, look at full moon
3. collect and distribute - Exercises: Collect and distribute qi
4. inside out/ outside in - Exercise: Boxing, force flows from the inside out and from the outside in.
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