Differences Between Tai Chi and Qigong

Contributed by: yogini (http://daily-yoga.org)

Both qigong and tai chi work by encouraging relaxation, concentration and optimal alignment. Both tai chi and qigong attempt to bring body and mind closer together to accomplish these primary goals.

With regular practice, tai chi and qigong help us to become more attuned to our bodies, and so better able to make slight adjustments to correct imbalance before stronger symptoms, such as sickness, appear.

The Histories of Tai Chi and Qigong

Qigong dates back about 5,000 years and has always been closely associated with Chinese medicine, along with acupuncture, herbal medicine and massage therapies.

Qigong is the act or process of mindfully collecting, moving or releasing energy. Qigong can be very passive and still, or quite active, similar to tai chi or more so.

Additionally, there are several types of qigong, given names for different reasons. There is Confucian Qigong, Martial, Taoist and Buddhist Qigong.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is quite a bit younger, dating back to about 1600. Tai chi is more closely related to internal martial arts –those focused on flow of energy and flexibility as opposed to strength and hardness.

The original tai chi movements came from 5 key family lineages. Though tai chi has its roots in martial arts, it has developed into a much more philosophical and calming, wellbeing-enhancing type of activity.

Tai chi and qigong are really more similar than they are different. Though they go about it in different ways and with different style, each is about cultivating and moving energy. Try each and see if you enjoy one better than the other, if so, why? There are interesting benefits to each type of energy work.

About yogini
(http://daily-yoga.org)

I fancy myself a student of the mystical schools. As such, nothing is off-limits as far as self- and multiverse- exploration goes. I prefer to use the term 'yoga' to mean the development of self, and not as one particular discipline. I seek viable, proactive information on subjects ranging from meta physics and philosophy, social evolution and ethics, to sustainable living practices and natural health solutions as alternatives to mainstream medicine, and in daily life. I share the ponderings and info you find here, as well as pass along articles by others whose interests fit into the topics on this site...so be sure to check out the links to other authors' sites in the bio section at the end of each article... and enjoy!

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