What is Qigong (Chi Kung)?

'Qi' or 'Chi' means energy. In Yoga, it is called 'Prana'. 'Gong' or 'Kung' means work. Therefore, Qigong means the exercise of your internal energy. It is a 5,000-year-old Chinese healthcare modality that has both endured the test of time and is making a tremendous resurgence at the threshold of the 21st Century. The benefits of Qigong are increasingly recognized for enhancing fitness in mind and body, developing vitality for sports and sex, and helping in the cure of stress as well as degenerative and chronic diseases. Literally millions practice Qigong in China and around the world each day to successfully treat diseases ranging from hypertension to cancer.

Is Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) a form of Qigong?

Tai Chi Chuan commonly known as Tai Chi is an internal martial art. However, the majority of Tai Chi practitioners just treat it as a slow dance. Without a solid Qigong foundation, it is just a slow and gentle exercise. At best, you just feel more relaxed and flexible by practicing it that way. Proper breathing and meditative techniques as well as the use of 'qi' are the keys to maximize the health benefits of Tai Chi.

People generally experience the health benefits when practicing Qigong faster than when they practice Tai Chi. Even the world famous Tai Chi grandmaster Feng Zhiqiang recommends that people practice Qigong instead of Tai Chi to gain health benefits if time is an issue. However, practicing Tai Chi and Qigong at the same time is most beneficial.

Introduction to Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi

Whether you call it Taiji Chi Kung Shibashi (shibashi means 18 movements in Chinese), Taiji Qigong in 18 Movements or Eighteen Forms of Tai Chi Chi Kung, it is one of the most popular Qigong in the world.

Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi was developed by Professor Lin Hou-Sheng in 1979. Professor Lin is a renowned Qigong Master, scientist and Master Healer. His remarkable credentials include Professor of the College of Chinese Medicine in Shanghai, Director of Qigong Research Institute in China and Honorary President of the International Society of Natural Cures.

People practicing Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi in China

Master Lin is well known in China and has published more than ten books.  In 1980 he developed a technique for successfully using Qigong as the only anesthesia needed in surgical operations: no anesthetics, no acupuncture needles just "qi" energy. His scientific studies on Qigong healing have been published in the prestigious journal Nature (Vol. 275,1978). Master Lin has also personally given qigong healing treatments to high-ranking Chinese officials such as president Jiang Zemin.
Above: Master Lin demonstrates Shaolin kung fu

Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi is a Qigong which based on the philosophy of Tai Chi and extracts some of the best movements from the Yang style Tai Chi Chuan. It places emphasis on synchronizing the 18 movements with proper breathing techniques. It is a gentle, beautiful and flowing Qigong exercise routine that is both a joy to do and deeply relaxing.

Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi is designed to improve the general health and wellbeing of the practitioner. The gentle rocking motions and stretching movements improve circulation and digestion. The chest exercises and controlled breathing are good for lung conditions and asthma. And the overall effect of the exercise is to reduce mental stress and physical tension carried in the muscles of the body. This Qigong is very effective and easy to learn. It is practiced around the world by over 10 million people, and is considered a national health exercise in Malaysia and Indonesia.

Tens of thousands practicing Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi together at a stadium in Malaysia

Some benefits of Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi:

• Improves Health
• Increases Energy, Agility and Flexibility
• Loosens and Strengthens Joints and Muscles
• Controls Weight
• Rejuvenates Body, Mind and Spirit
• Reduces Stress
• Improves Concentration and Intuitive Abilities
• Controls Emotions
• Easy to Learn

A Word from Sifu (Master) Wing Cheung
"I have learned more than 30 different styles of Qigong. Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi is one of the most effective and easiest to learn. Most of my students are able to master it in just a few lessons. And many of them can feel the presence of 'Qi' traveling in their bodies after practicing for just 3 months.

Sifu Cheung was teaching Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi during the Canadian Cancer Society - Relay for Life event

My sifu (master) constantly reminds me that 'fame and fortune' are what prevent most qigong masters from advancing to a higher level. After immigrating to North America, I am very upset to find so many so-called Qigong masters charging outrageous prices for their Qigong workshops.

Qigong should not be only available to those who can afford to learn it. Everyone should have an opportunity to learn it! That's why I have created this free qigong video so that all can have a chance to study it.

I am sure you will benefit from this gift. Just follow the instructions and practice daily. Be sure to spread the word about this website so that more people can benefit from this qigong video."