Chi-Gong is an ancient martial art that originates in China, widely used for centuries to maintain overall health, mindfulness and spiritual connection.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, also referred to as TCM, it is believed that there are channels that run through our bodies that conduct ‘Chi’ or life-force energy. These channels are important for each of us to maintain, otherwise the chi cannot flow through the body and cannot express itself and thrive.
It is for this reason the discipline of Chi Gong was created. The word Chi Gong, translates as Life-Force Training. It consists of a series of movements and stretches that ensure these vital pathways remain open and clear of blockages. These exercises are intended to train you to move in ways that are conducive to good energy flow through your body.
There are many different modalities and versions of Chi-Gong with different purposes and approaches. Some are very heavily focused on health and wellness in a physical sense, others are more focused on the meditation or mindfulness aspects of the practice. There is one modality in particular that is particularly interesting as it is strongly centered around the spiritual aspect. This is the modality known as Falun-Gong or Falun-Dafa.
Falun Gong is a very gentle yet very powerful version of Chi-Gong. It’s practitioners claim amazing health benefits and transformational properties. Though the exercises are extremely easy and gentle, they are reported to yield amazing results. In China, where Falun Gong originated, it’s practitioners are persecuted by their local government. It is actually ILLEGAL to practice Falun Gong in China. It is rumoured that not only do the practitioners get sent to jail, but because their organs are so healthy and superior to regular folks, their organs are harvested. This is rumoured to be the reason that organ transplants are so much cheaper and available in this part of the world. The sheer fact that a government would be so reactive to a practice of stretches and movements, makes you wonder if there is something more to it.
You can learn all about Falun Gong and these issues at the Friends of Falun Gong website.