Qi Gong for Aging
Aging is a complex process described in the biological sciences as the accumulation of changes to the body and mind over the course of life. Addressing the degenerative effects of aging, which lead to decreased physical and mental function, is a major focus for medical and wellness programs.
In modern medicine, there are a variety of pharmaceutical drugs and surgical techniques used to address issues associated with aging. Most health professionals also recommend some form of exercise to keep the body healthy. The Chinese practice of Qi Gong is purported to have a number of positive effects on the aging body and is commonly practiced by aging persons in China. Many Chinese physicians believe that Qi Gong helps to increase strength and flexibility, boost immune function, strengthen the respiratory system, and preserve cognitive function.
What are the Benefits of Qi Gong in Combating Aging?
Qi Gong has been reported to aid in relieving the symptoms associated with a number of issues associated with aging, including hypertension, heart disease, asthma, diabetes, arthritis, and high blood pressure. Qi Gong involves learning to control your breathing and therefore has positive effects on respiratory function and, by increasing relaxation and improving breath control, has a similar effect on the circulatory system.
In a 1993 article presented by Chinese physician Xu Hefen and colleagues, Qi Gong practice was shown to increase the amount of the enzyme “Superoxide dismutase” (SOD) in the blood. Researchers have found that SOD is an important factor in aging because it is active in destroying “free radicals,” molecules that contribute to deteriorating conditions through chemical reactions. Xu Hefen and colleagues found that patients practicing Qi Gong daily had higher levels of SOD and correspondingly lower levels of free radicals in their bodies.
Other studies have shown that individuals who regularly practice Qi Gong have increased blood flow, which increases the function of the brain and other organs. Numerous studies and firsthand accounts also indicate that Qi Gong helps to control stress, which is a leading factor in deteriorating health.
What is Qi Gong?
Qi Gong is a system of meditative exercise that has been used in China for more than 2,000 years to maintain physical and mental health. The word Qi, (氣), pronounced “chee,” refers to breath or respiration, and in Chinese Medicine it is related to the holistic concept of physical and mental forces sometimes called “vital energy.” The word Gong, (功), refers to an acquired skill or a method of work or practice. Qi Gong, therefore, refers to a type of work used to cultivate the body’s energy.
There are hundreds of forms of Qi Gong practiced across China, including the family of martial arts known as Tai Chi Chuan, which has become globally famous for its meditative and health-promoting properties. Some forms of Qi Gong can be practiced in a seated position with little physical stress, while others like Dayan or “Wild Goose” Qi Gong involve vigorous sets of movements that require significant physical effort. In Chinese philosophy, Qi Gong is believed to aid in retrieving energy from the environment and circulating it through the body, benefiting the organs and other tissues.
What Are the Problems Associated with Aging?
Throughout the life cycle, the function of the human body changes in response to both internal and external cues. The concentrations of hormones and other chemicals are a major source of change during the aging process, determining muscle and bone density, organ and tissue health, and a variety of other factors. Though each person ages at a unique rate, most people will begin to show subtle signs of aging between the ages of 20 to 30, generally starting with wrinkles and graying hair.
Between 30 and 40 the function of major organs, like the heart and liver, may begin to decline, while outward signs of aging become more acute as the tissues lose elasticity. After age 40, some begin experiencing a loss of hearing and vision and also suffer from reduced joint and muscle function. After the age of 50, many people experience a sharp decline in health and may begin to see signs of late-onset diseases, like diabetes and heart disease.
Have Studies Proven Qi Gong’s Effectiveness on Aging?
Since the 1970s, there have been several controlled studies aimed at elucidating the physiological mechanisms and effects of the practice of Qi Gong. Researchers have found that, while Qi Gong is superficially similar to other types of low-impact aerobic exercise, the benefits are superior to those of many other exercise programs. In addition, because there are different forms that require varying levels of exertion, Qi Gong is ideal for the elderly and for persons suffering from various movement disorders. For this reason, Chinese physicians often recommend Qi Gong as part of a balanced health-care regimen.
Though the scientific study of Qi Gong is still in its infancy, more and more Western medical professionals are recommending Qi Gong to their patients as a supplement to managed-care regimens. While Qi Gong may not provide a cure for any specific ailment, the meditative and physical benefits of regular practice are evidenced by its growing popularity around the world. When used responsibly, under the supervision of trained professionals and in conjunction with other healthy activities, Qi Gong may help to enhance quality of life.
Additional Resources
Xu, Hefen; Xue, Huining; Bian, Meiguang; Zhang, Chengming; Zhou, Shuying. “Clinical study of the anti-aging effect of Qi Gong.” Proceedings, Second World Conference for Academic Exchange of Medical Qi Gong. Beijing, China. 1993: 137.
Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA. “Qi Gong as a therapeutic intervention with older adults.” Journal of Holistic Nursing. 22(4):351–73, 2004 Dec.
The Qi Gong Institute offers a database of research papers online discussing the benefits of Qi Gong for various health disorders.