FAQ

Tai Chi is one form of Qigong. It is also a martial art. Its movements are more

complicated, involving kicking, punching and striking. They also involve moving

through space in all 8 directions. In contrast, the movements in 18 Movement

Qigong are purely for health and one remains stationary. It is thus easier to learn;
students can receive benefits to their health much sooner. For those who are less
mobile, they can conveniently practice 18 Movement Qigong in a sitting position.

Secondly, since the movements of Tai Chi are more complicated, it is more
difficult to coordinate the breath with the postures; to do so, the student must
gain a level of proficiency, which may take months or years.

The movements of 18 movement Qigong are easy to learn and practice,

therefore it is also easier to coordinate deep breathing with the slow, gentle,
yet invigorating movements right from the very beginning. Deep abdominal
breathing from what is called the Dan Tian ("field of elixir," an energy center
located roughly 2 inches below the navel) is an essential part of this kind of
energy practice. One can more readily achieve it and enjoy its benefits in
practicing 18 Movement Qigong.

Thirdly, the movements in 18 Movement Qigong refer to scenes and forces in

nature, such as "Dancing With a Rainbow," "Turning to Gaze at the Moon," and
"Scooping the Ocean, Looking at the Sky," the practitioner is encouraged to feel

a harmonious connection with the universe as a whole.

1) The goal of both is to cultivate, regulate and circulate the life force energy

(the Chinese call it Qi - pronounced "chee") within the human body.

2) They both use continuous, smooth, slow, gentle, fluid and large circular

movements to mimic the nature of Qi circulating throughout the human body.

3) They both are moving meditation, or meditation in action. Each movement

flows into the next with unbroken continuity, harmoniously integrating body,

mind and spirit.