Qigong for Detox

Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that uses synchronized breathing and slow, meditative movements for healing mind and body. Physiological effects of regular practice of Qigong include cleansing of the lymphatic system and improved oxygen metabolism, according to the Qigong Institute. A personal Qigong routine can help reduce stress and rid the body of unwanted environmental and dietary toxins. It has also been used in helping heroin addicts overcome the effects of withdrawal.

The Process

• Qigong combines meditation, relaxation and visualization into a series of separate moves that create the free flow of energy throughout the body. Chinese medicine holds that all pain and disease are results of stagnant or blocked Qi, which in Mandarin Chinese means breath or life force energy. Gong means skill or achievement. Mastering Qigong releases the blocks to allow energy to flow.

  Qigong cleanses the body's organs of environmental and dietary toxins, regulates energy and balances yin-yang, thereby restoring healthy functioning of the lymphatic system and preventing illness.

How It Works

• The movements and relaxation exercises of Qigong stimulate the lymphatic system, a complex network of organs, vessels, tissues and nodes that protect the body from pathogens. The job of the lymph is to collect fluids containing bacteria, fungus and viruses from the cells, moving them into to the blood system and then to the lymph nodes where they are neutralized.

  Energy metabolism also creates by-products called free radicals, which can cause tissue damage and premature aging. The deep breathing and slow movements of Qigong increase the demand for oxygen, which bonds with unstable free radicals, neutralizing them.

How to Learn

• Millions of people practice Qigong daily to maintain their health and cure illness. And there are some 80,000 different kinds of Qigong in China, according to Jack Lim, a Qigong Grand Master.

  But you can learn Qigong without going to Asia. You can probably find a teacher locally at a studio, health club or spa. If not, there are a wide variety of DVDs and downloadable videos on the Internet that demonstrate and explain the simple, focused movements. In addition, illustrated instruction manual and books are available at the library or bookstores.

  Lim says Qigong is easy to learn. Technique is not as important as allowing the process to happen and being aware of the sensations of Qi in your own body. The practice should be effortless and noncompetitive.

  The body's natural healing abilities work more effectively with Qigong, gradually increasing energy level and reducing stress, while creating harmony between mind and spirit.