Qigong—pronounced 'chee-kung'—is a combination of two Chinese characters. The first, 'qi,' means both life and energy. The second, 'gong,' means work as well as practice. Combined, qigong, translates as 'energy cultivation' or the integration of mind, body and spirit to allow for free flowing life force or energy. Traditional Chinese medicine says that the system of meditation, movement and breathing that is qigong improves the circulation and treats functional disorders, disorders like fertility.

Types of Qigong

All types of qigong are based on the ancient Chinese understanding of physiology in which qi was the fundamental life force in the world, a force that flowed through every being. Should the qi become blocked, disorders resulted and for different disorders, there are different types of qigong practice.

• Soft qigong—Exercises that emphasize relaxation and quiet like tai chi.
• Hard qigong—Exercises that stress power and strength like kung fu.
• Static qigong—Stillness and meditation.
• Dynamic qigong—Continual motion.

The maintenance of the body through qigong does not seek to burn energy like most western exercises but to create energy by nurturing and protecting the body and spirit.

Can Practicing Qigong Treat Infertility?

Yes. The emphasis on calm and relaxation is an excellent therapy to deal with the stress of infertility. When conception does not come quickly, often stress results which in turn makes conception that much more difficult. By maintaining a state of peace internally, regular qigong practice allows for the free flow of energy to organs which is said to increase ovarian functionality and sperm characteristics such as count and motility.

How is Qigong Practiced?

The different types of qigong work to achieve different affects. A trained professional can help you find the exercises and combinations that work best for you and your particular goals. In general, there are a few tips that apply across the board for maximum effect:

• Practice qigong before meals.
• Quiet the mind. Allow thoughts to pass through without holding onto them or focusing on anything in particular.
• Close your mouth. Clamp the jaw but relax the abdomen and the cheeks. Inhale through the nose.
• When the abdomen is full of breath and the mouth is full of saliva, pull the cheeks in and swallow both the air and saliva audibly. Imagine that the two follow separate routes: the saliva is headed to the kidneys and the breath is stored in the abdomen. Both of these represent qi.
• Expect hiccups or diarrhea when first beginning practice. The Chinese believe that this is the body eliminating toxins.