Chi Kung

Practising "chi-kung" or energy exercise is a way to generate internal "chi" power and strengthen the internal organs of the body enabling them to withstand enemy attacks.

This practice developed in early China when a portion of the population practiced some form of Kung fu as a way to defeat enemies and protect themselves and their families.

The aim through the different practices of chi-kung was to make the body as hard as the named metal in order that many blows could be administered to the martial artist without damage or consequence.

The internal organs were protected by a layer of chi or the universal life force energy. This energy was built up through special breathing, visualization and physical techniques over time.

With the advent of new technology and weapon craft, particularly toward the modern era, the practice of many forms of kung fu and internal power generation fell away or was lost in the mists of time. Why bother practising one punch or the same technique for years if you could just pick up a gun and shoot your enemy rather than engage in hand to hand combat with them?

Today, the art of internal power generation is making a comeback and there are many local schools and classes where you can find various forms of “chi-kung”.

It is said there are many benefits to following this ancient art from general health and well being to calmer and more focused states of mind. We may not have the enemies and mortal combat fears of old but these other goals are very worthy of pursuit in our modern lives.

Many will be stretching rhythmically. Some will be in synchronized groups performing what looks to be slow, very orchestrated movements of the body. You will also very likely see individuals practising the same art on their own. They are probably engaged in Tai-chi - a form of soft martial art. Others may be standing very still and assuming strange stances - they may be performing Chi-kung - a way of developing health and increasing one's internal energy.

One variation of chi-kung is known as "Zhan Zhuang" or "standing like a tree". In this practice there is very little movement and yet it is incredibly physical and demanding on the body. According to the philosophy behind Zhan Zhuang, performing the exercises involved in the discipline will actually generate and release energy that is normally stored or blocked within the human system.

Some of the alleged benefits of this art include slowing down the process of decay that occurs as we age as well as produce exceptional health and vitality. It is said to revitalize the nervous system, successfully treat serious illnesses and increase the potency of the immune system. Although the system is not as widely known as other forms of Tai-chi and Chi-kung it is nonetheless an attractive alternative exercise for those people looking to stay fit and vigorous as well as healthy at the same time.