Medical Qigong is an ancient form of Chinese practice, and in China is considered to be one of the four main branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), along with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage. As with the other "Branches", healing occurs through balancing qi or electromagnetic energy which surrounds and pervades all living creatures. Disruptions in the electromagnetic energy of the body occur throughout our lifetime as a result of poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, injuries, surgery, suppression of emotions, and aging.
The goal of qigong is to correct these bio-energetic imbalances and blockages. This enables the body to strengthen and regulate the internal organs, the nervous system and the immune system, relieve pain, regulate hormones, and strengthen and release deep-seated emotions and stress.
Medical qigong consists of working with a practitioner to regulate the client's qi. After the session, the client will be given qigong excercises to assist in their ongoing healing. Tailored specifically to the client, medical qigong exercises use physical movement, breathing methods and mental intention to correct and restore the function in the body.
Like any other system of fitness or health care, qigong is not a panacea but a highly effective health care practice. Many health care professionals recommend qigong as an important form of complementary and alternative medicine.