Hi,

I live out of state and there is a martial arts studio that offers Qi gong but not tai chi. I was wondering what is the difference between tai chi and qi gong? I hear them both together and separately.

Thanks,
Kate

Dear Kate,

Qigong and Tai Chi (Taiji) are practiced separately as well as together. Qigong is the study and practices relating to Qi. Qigong practice uses both still and moving meditation to increase and regulate the flow of Qi (bio-electric energy) in the body. This can harmonize bio-chemical function and have a very profound effect on the mind to regulate emotions and stabilize one's life direction. Qigong movements are done as individual postures or in sets.

Actually, there really isn't much difference between Qigong practice and Tai Chi practice because most of the movements in Qigong have been taken from the Tai Chi sequence. Qigong is simpler to practice because one doesn't need to memorize a long series of movements with multiple intentions. Tai Chi requires much more depending on the practitioners goals which can range anywhere from better health and fitness, to mastering self-defense. None the less, Tai Chi practice without the element of Qigong is like an empty dance of separate body parts with no real substance.

Patrick,

Thank you! Now I have a better understanding of both tai chi and qi gong. I am really liking your 18 posture DVD. I was wondering if you will be doing a qi gong video someday?

Kate

Hi again Kate,
In answer to your last question, will I be doing a Qigong video? Yes, in fact I am in the process of writing the script and will be filming it this winter. It should be released sometime in the Spring. Please stay tuned in. Thanks for your interest in Jade Dragon Tai Chi.

Best regards,

Patrick Martin

A Qigong video? That will be great. Looking forward to seeing that show up in your store.