Deep Breaths, Slow Movement: Benefits of Qigong for Wellness in Cancer Management
““When the intent (yi) arrives, the qi [life force] arrives.”
What is Qigong?
Qigong is a traditional Chinese practice that combines movement, meditation, and controlled breathing exercises to cultivate and balance qi (pronounced "chee"), which is believed to be the vital life force energy according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The word "qi" translates to energy or life force, and "gong" means cultivation or skill. Qigong is one of the primary pillars that accompanies the whole of the Chinese medical system, alongside acupuncture, herbs and nutritional therapy.
There are various styles and forms of qigong, but they typically involve slow, gentle movements coordinated with deep breathing and focused intention. Some forms may also include visualization and mindfulness techniques. Qigong is often practiced for its health benefits, including stress reduction, improved balance and flexibility, increased energy levels, and enhanced overall well-being. It’s extremely meditative and restorative, which is integral to healing.
Qigong and meditation can offer various benefits to cancer patients, both physically and emotionally. During active cancer therapies, like during chemotherapy or post-surgical, the physical body is depleted and focused on recovery. This can make it challenging to comfortably move or exercise, and sometimes, it’s not even safe to do so. This is when gentle movements through qigong can be profoundly effective, because the individual can practice while seated, laying down, or standing in place, just by focusing on breath.
Here’s a {short list} of Qigong benefits:
Stress Reduction: Cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause significant stress and anxiety. Both qigong and meditation are effective in reducing stress levels by promoting relaxation and calming the mind. This can help alleviate psychological distress and improve the patient's quality of life.
Boosting Immune Function: Some studies suggest that qigong and meditation practices may enhance immune function. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, these practices can potentially strengthen the immune system, which is crucial for cancer patients undergoing treatment.
Pain Management: Cancer treatment often comes with various physical discomforts, including pain. Both qigong and meditation can help manage pain by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and altering pain perception through mindfulness techniques.
Improving Sleep: Many cancer patients experience sleep disturbances due to stress, pain, or side effects of treatment. Qigong and meditation techniques can promote better sleep by inducing relaxation and reducing anxiety, ultimately leading to improved sleep quality.
Enhancing Energy Levels: Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer treatment. Qigong involves gentle movements, breathing exercises, and meditation, which can help increase energy levels and alleviate fatigue by improving circulation, oxygenation, and overall vitality.
Supporting Emotional Well-being: Dealing with cancer can evoke a wide range of emotions, including fear, sadness, and uncertainty. Qigong and meditation provide tools for coping with these emotions by fostering a sense of inner peace, acceptance, and resilience. They can also help patients develop a more positive outlook on life.
Promoting Mind-Body Connection: Both qigong and meditation emphasize the connection between the mind and body. Practicing these techniques can help cancer patients develop greater awareness of their bodies, allowing them to better understand and respond to their physical and emotional needs.
Complementing Conventional Treatment: While qigong and meditation complement medical interventions by promoting overall health and well-being. Many cancer centers offer integrative medicine programs that incorporate these practices alongside standard treatments.
Curious about integrating Qigong into your wellness routine?
Good! There are phenomenal Qigong masters worldwide, but here are a few of my favorites:
Mimi Kuo-Deemer. Check out the 8 Brocades as an introduction to Qigong.
Lee Holden, L.Ac. Holden Qigong offers “getting started” courses and practical introductions.
As part of Dr. Bianca’s 4-Week Formula and integrative cancer care programs, we explore the benefits of qigong together and find tailored approaches to ensure the optimal integration of this potent therapy during a cancer journey.
Email Insight Cancer Care for more integrative cancer care and information here.