Is is all right to practice Tai Chi and Qigong together?
As Tai Chi is simply a "style" of Qigong
for all intents and purposes (the Yang Style being a
formalized Qigong style practiced secretly for generations
by the Yang family in China) then I see no issue with
complementing one's Tai Chi practice with Qigong.
Several of the Masters that I studied with in China
practice both Tai Chi and Qigong as integrated parts
of their personal healthcare regime. I did notice
that some of the senior Masters let go of the Tai Chi practice over the years and found Qigong to be all they
required to stay healthy and balanced. One Master
felt that Tai Chi was too "regimented and linear,"
stating that in this modern world, we don't need any
more of that in our lives. He felt Qigong helped
to develop the Right Brain in it's gentler, more formless
style.
In my classes I emphasize that it is not the outward
"form" which is important…it is the
intention you hold during your practice. The physical
movements of Qigong and Tai Chi are helpful in moving
Qi--and when done correctly, can accelerate the healing
benefits of each system--but they are empty and meaningless
without the associated visualizations, coordinated breathing,
and the inner intention the practitioner holds in their
heart and mind during the practice.
Qigong, if practiced as the sages intended, can be
mapped onto any action, any activity that you experience
during a normal day. Bringing Qigong's breathing,
visualization, and intentional movement to the most
common tasks such as driving or washing the dishes will
help you cultivate inner Qi, balance your energy, and
bring joy to your life.
I believe finding the tools that help to inspire and
heal you and practicing them in combination--and in
balance--is the key to being free and growing spiritually. Listen
to how your body, mind and spirit feels as you practice...
listen and trust that you will know what works and what
doesn't. We change over time, so move with the
changes and be free.
I wish you well on your journey.
Peace.
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