Qigong Reactions

Qigong (Chi Kung) is an energy management practice that is used to integrate and cleanse the body, mind and spirit in order to promote health, prevent disease and develop a person's potentialities. Through the use of specific postures, proper breathing and mental reframing energy can flow freely throughout the entire body.

When a person begins to practice Qigong, the healthy Qi attempts to remove any negative energies within the body, mind and spirit. During this cleansing (healing) process certain physical or mental discomfort, even pain, can occur. This phenomena is called a Qigong Reaction.

There are four kinds of Qigong Reactions.

As the healing Qi (energy) increases within the body, the immune system functions better pushing toxins out of (cleansing) the body. These toxins are eliminated from the body through perspiration, tears, coughing, lower body excretions, high fever, skin rash, etc.
Healthy Qi will attack latent diseases or old injuries. This happens when the disease or injury was never completely healed. As you practice Qigong, the quantity and quality of your Qi improves. This healing Qi seeks out any health issues and injuries. The immune system and central nervous system becomes healthier creating "false" sensations similar to the original disease or injury. It feels, however, like the original illness or injury has returned. The Qigong practitioner may conclude that the more he/she practices the worse the symptoms. The opposite is actually true. The more a person practices, the better the quantity and quality of the Qi and the quicker the healing occurs. This Qigong reaction is a strong indicator that the healing process is taking place.
Once a person is healthy, a Qigong "growth" reaction may occur. This reaction is similar to a sick person's reaction as the body and mind are purified.
The regular practice of Qigong creates a strong Qi field (electromagnetic) in the practitioner's home (or place of practice). This Qi Field can bring forward health and wellness benefits to the person's family and friends. This healing process could manifest itself in two ways. It could lead to some of the above "reactions" in your family. Or, the practitioner could react him/herself to the illness/injury of the family member - feeling the symptoms.

About 50 to 75% of Qigong practitioners experience some type of Qigong Reaction during the healing process. How long this healing process will last depends on the history and degree of the health condition.

Without an adequate understanding of the Qigong healing process, a practitioner may fear or worry that he/she is doing something wrong or that Qigong isn't helping. Instead the practitioner should consider the Qigong Reactions with an appreciative attitude. Be positive about the reactions. They are a confirmation that healing is taking place. Sending a positive affirmation to your body at this time is important.

It is often difficult to distinguish the symptoms of a disease and a healing Qigong reaction. Most practitioners, however, will be able to feel if their health condition is improving. A safe bet is to consult your physician and your Qigong physician. Your own experience is often your best teacher, however.

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