Why is Qigong such a Great Practice?

Why is Qigong such a Great Practice?

Qigong involves coordinated gentle exercises, meditation, and breathing techniques, which promote relaxation and balance the body’s energy. This holistic approach is believed to combat energy blockages and enhance both physical and psychological well-being. Here’s how qigong compares to other forms of exercise for improving cardiovascular health:

• Blood pressure reduction: A meta-analysis found that Chinese exercises like qigong led to significant decreases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Notably, these exercises reduced blood pressure more than aerobic exercise.

• Cholesterol improvement: The same meta-analysis observed modest but statistically significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in participants practicing qigong and similar exercises.

• Heart rate and blood pressure regulation: Qigong may have positive effects on heart rate and blood pressure regulation, possibly through its impact on the vagus nerve.

• Circulation improvement: The whole-body movements in qigong are thought to improve circulation to muscles and organs, which may have cardiovascular benefits.

• Stress reduction: Unlike many traditional forms of exercise, qigong emphasizes stress reduction and relaxation, which can indirectly benefit cardiovascular health.

• Accessibility: Qigong is generally more accessible than many other forms of exercise, especially for older adults or those with physical limitations. This can make it easier for people to maintain a consistent practice, potentially leading to better long-term cardiovascular outcomes.

• Metabolic syndrome: A meta-analysis found that qigong exercise had significant effects on waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and triglyceride levels in patients with metabolic syndrome.

• Long-term effects: Some studies suggest potential long-term benefits of qigong on cardiovascular health, including reduced all-cause mortality and stroke incidence, though more research is needed to confirm these findings. The current evidence suggests that qigong can be a valuable addition to a cardiovascular health regimen, especially for those who may find more intense forms of exercise challenging or intimidating.