WHAT IS CHI KUNG?
By Ramel Rones

Chi Kung (Qigong), the Study (Kung) of Human Energy (Chi), embodies a total system of Physical, Mental and Spiritual Exercises which deal with promotion of health. Approximately 2500 years ago, Chi Kung, was developed in China and has evolved into four major schools of thought:

1. Scholar Kung or Confucius Kung: Ethical development, refinement of personal temperament, self cultivation
2. Martial Kung: Enhance and develop the strength, endurance and spirit of a warrior
3. Medical Kung: Improves quality of life, complements ongoing western treatment, relieves symptoms of illness
4. Religious Kung: Divided into two categories:
   Taoist - Cultivation of physical body and spirit, merging with nature to achieve longevity and immortality
   Buddhist - Spiritual Cultivation as a way to reach enlightenment, freedom from the cycle of life and death

Purpose of Medical Chi Kung

The practice of Chi Kung can help ease some of the side effects of a western treatment plan on a physical, mental, and spiritual level. Chi Kung is a Mind/Body Spiritual Approach to better health which, according to eastern philosophy, tries to balance and harmonize the body, breathing, mind, energy, and spirit - the building blocks of our being. The study of Chi Kung teaches us how to enjoy and cultivate a mindful practice of regulating those essential building blocks, empowering patients and their families to participate on their journey towards better health.

What is Involved?

Chi Kung involves the practice of Mind/Body techniques during specific hours of the day in various postures - lying, sitting, standing still, moving slowly (Tai Chi), moving quickly (Kung Fu), to achieve needed goals.

Mind/Body methods and techniques include: stretching, strengthening, increasing range of motion in the joints, learning how to align bones, learning how to use the body in the most (or least) effortless way possible, lengthening the spine, increasing lung capacity, massaging the organ area through movements. Techniques, metaphors and visualizations are also used to create space for the nervous system to function better, improve relaxation, increase concentration, and while trying to utilize the mind and awaken the spirit as healing tools to achieve a higher quality of life.

What has been Proven?

Studies have shown that exercise prevents muscle loss, increases bone density, prevents osteoporosis, increases stability and balance, helps to relieve arthritis pain, reduces stress, lowers anxiety, improves overall health and self esteem, relieves depression, strengthens the immune system, and may increase lymph flow. Since Chi Kung involves many of the elements of regular exercise, and more, then we can apply what has been proven about exercise to Chi Kung.

What does this Therapy Cost?

Private lessons vary in price from $40 - $100 per hour. Group lessons vary in price from $10 - $20 pet hour.

Possible Side Effects

The act of stretching, challenging, and reactivating different soft body tissue (skin, fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments) may lead to minor physical pain.

Special Considerations

1. It is recommended that you discuss this complementary form of health with your physician and/or pain management provider.
2. Notice the difference between constructive pain vs. destructive pain.
3. Relaxation is one of the first tools of Chi Kung, but Chi Kung is not only relaxation!
4. There is a saying: It may take ten years to master Chi Kung, but it may take you twenty years to find the right master.

"Deeply versed, passionate and informed, Mr. Rones is a committed and caring teacher of the Asian Mind-Body arts including Qigong, Tai Chi, and Yoga." Ted Kaptchuk, Harvard Medical School, Author of The Web That Has No Weaver