Qigong, which means “energy work,” is a meditative, relaxing technique that can calm the mind, as well as promote a healthier body, says qigong master Mei Jin Lu, president and chairman of the US Health Qigong Association. “It’s integrated by three parts—breathing, form, and the mind—so that you’re not bogged down with worry and are able to find moments of peace.” In this sense, it’s a lot like yoga. Also like yoga, qigong is considered to naturally relieve everything from afternoon slumps, stress to conditions such as depression, hypertension, fibromyalgia and arthritis. For example, a Robert Wood Johnson Medical School study found that women with severe fibromyalgia reported 73% less pain after just 5-7 sessions with a qigong master. And a seperate Swedish study found that qigong helps women in their 40s naturally slow their heart rate and blood pressure. (See which qigong exercise Dr. Taz Bhatia likes best, here.) While yoga and qigong are very similar, qigong takes things a step further. It moves away from static poses into restorative movements designed to better the flow of energy, so that those who practice can foster a balance between physical and mental health. “Chinese immigrants carry the foundation of qigong, educating and spreading great healing to the American people,” says Lu. “It’s been awesome to see the two cultures blend and people become aware of a new, healthy lifestyle.” To find a qigong class near you, visit the National Qigong Association’s website. Or, if a group setting intimidates you, start out at-home with a DVD like Francesco Garripoli’s “Qigong Beginning Practice” ($14, amazon.com) and our Ultimate Energy Workout. More from Prevention: 11 Natural Cures For Pain
