Qigong is a form of embodied meditation practice—it is moving meditation. It is an ancient tradition that harmonizes gentle movement, the breath, Qi (life energy), and a meditative state of mind.  The heart of Qigong practice is intentional movement, attention to posture, and slow, deep, rhythmic breaths. The balanced flow of Qi, our life energy, is the cornerstone of traditional Qigong practice. With its focus on balance and tranquility (Wuji), Qigong nurtures and supports the integration of our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Those who practice daily experience calm, clarity, and harmony with our natural environment and all living beings.

At first, Taiji Qigong Shibashi, an 18-movement form of Qigong practice, suggests using mental images to enter a meditative state. Using poetic images of each movement lifts the spirit, relaxes the body, and stills the mind. Many of the images in this form connect us to the water, earth, and sky—a water fountain, rowing on a calm lake, water droplets, undulating waves, diving into the sea, a flying wild goose, dancing with a rainbow, and separating the clouds, all done with a sense of joy and of being rooted to the earth, evoking the embodiment of Clear Blue Mind.

Once the mind quiets, perception shifts from these mental images to the inner body, observing life’s energy without judgment and without guiding the Qi. Entering this state of tranquility (Wuji) releases physical tension, builds and nurtures energy, and improves both posture and the flow of Qi as you practice.