Why Qigong Is Called Asian Yoga? Is That Right?
Qigong is sometimes referred to as “Asian yoga” because of some shared characteristics, but it’s important to understand the key differences as well.
What is Qigong?
Qigong (pronounced “chee gung”) is an ancient Chinese system of exercise, breathing techniques, and meditation that has been practiced for thousands of years. It is considered a core tenet of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health : https://files.nccih.nih.gov/s3fs-public/Tai_Chi_and_Qi_Gong_09-11-2015.pdf
What is Yoga?
Yoga is like a mind-body orchestra conductor, bringing together your physical movements, breath, and mental focus into one harmonious performance. It originated in ancient India and has evolved into a vast practice with many styles.
source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/yoga-for-health
What are the similarities between Qigong and Yoga?
Embarking on a Journey Towards Holistic Well-being:
- Exploring ancient Eastern practices like yoga and qigong.
- Both offer distinct paths up the same mountain of holistic well-being.
- Yoga originates from India, while qigong originates from China.
- Despite their geographical differences, they share common ground fostering a unique mind-body connection.
1. A Symphony of Mind and Body:
- Integration of Physical and Mental Aspects:
- Fundamental principles shared by both yoga and qigong.
- Function akin to a skilled orchestra conductor, aligning body movements and mental focus harmoniously.
- Yoga’s Approach:
- Utilizes physical postures (asanas) and breathwork (pranayama).
- Asanas and pranayama combine to integrate body and mind.
- Qigong’s Approach:
- Involves gentle movements synchronized with mindful breathing exercises.
- Coordinates movement and breath to achieve mind-body integration.
- Benefits of Mind-Body Connection:
- Cultivates inner peace, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.
2. The Power of Movement and Breath:
- Beyond Meditation:
- Yoga and qigong encompass more than sitting in meditation.
- Both include movements or postures aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength, and balance.
- Yoga’s Movement Range:
- Postures vary from gentle stretches to challenging balancing acts.
- Qigong’s Movement Style:
- Movements are typically slow and fluid.
- Role of Breathwork:
- Crucial in both disciplines.
- In yoga, specific breathing techniques (pranayama) synchronize movement and focus the mind.
- Qigong emphasizes coordinated breathing patterns to regulate energy flow (qi) within the body.
3. A Holistic Approach to Wellness:
- Holistic Approach to Well-being:
- Yoga and qigong address physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health.
- Offer a comprehensive tune-up for the entire system.
- Yoga’s Emphasis:
- Often includes meditation practices to cultivate inner peace and self-awareness.
- Qigong’s Emphasis:
- Focuses on “qi” (energy) flow and its influence on overall health.
- Integration of Elements:
- Both practices integrate various elements to create a sense of well-being beyond the physical realm.
4. A Journey of Self-Discovery:
- Journeys of Self-Discovery:
- Yoga and qigong facilitate self-discovery.
- Delving deeper into practice leads to increased self-awareness, physically and mentally.
- Understanding Body and Mind:
- Reveals body’s capabilities and limitations.
- Facilitates quieting of the mind and cultivation of inner peace.
- Unique Journey:
- Each individual’s journey of self-discovery is unique.
- Both practices provide a safe space for exploration and growth.
Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Yoga: Exploring the Benefits https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/yoga-for-health
What is Asian yoga?
The term “Asian yoga” isn’t a recognized category within health and wellness practices. It’s likely used to refer to practices like qigong, which share some similarities with yoga but have distinct origins and philosophies.
Why “Asian Yoga” Isn’t Accurate:
- Oversimplification: Both yoga and qigong (the practice most commonly associated with “Asian yoga”) have rich histories and well-defined philosophies. Calling them “Asian yoga” diminishes their depth and unique characteristics.
- Origin Confusion: Yoga originated in India, while practices like qigong come from China. Grouping them under “Asian yoga” overlooks their distinct cultural roots.
Similarities Leading to the Misnomer:
- Ancient Practices: Both yoga and qigong have roots thousands of years old, originating in Asia.
- Mind-Body Focus: Both disciplines emphasize the connection between mind and body, aiming to improve mental and physical well-being.
- Exercises and Postures: Both involve a series of exercises or postures that promote flexibility, strength, and balance.
Alternatives to “Asian Yoga”:
- If referring to a specific practice, it’s best to use its proper name (e.g., qigong, tai chi).
- You could describe them as “mind-body practices from Asia” to acknowledge their shared geographical origin and focus.
Source:
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: https://files.nccih.nih.gov/s3fs-public/Tai_Chi_and_Qi_Gong_09-11-2015.pdf
Yoga Journal: https://hms.harvard.edu/news/intriguing-health-benefits-qigong
Summary
While the term “Asian yoga” might be used conversationally, it’s not entirely accurate. It overlooks the rich histories and distinct characteristics of practices like qigong, often referred to under this umbrella.
Both qigong and yoga share some similarities – ancient origins in Asia, a mind-body focus, and the use of movement and breathwork. However, they diverge when it comes to philosophy, movement styles, and goals. Qigong is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, emphasizing qi (energy) flow within the body for overall health. Yoga, with its Hindu and Buddhist influences, focuses on spiritual growth and self-realization through postures and breathwork.
Ultimately, appreciating their individual qualities allows you to choose the practice that best resonates with your goals. Whether you seek physical fitness, stress reduction, or spiritual exploration, both yoga and qigong offer unique and valuable paths toward a balanced and fulfilling life.