There is a subtle difference between the practice of Qigong and Tai Chi. Qigong and Yoga are at times even more difficult to distinguish, and similarities in execution, expression, and approach abound when it comes to comparing the three arts. At least for the novice, these three techniques of energy-building exercises are sometimes almost impossible to tell apart whichever way you look at it. Yet every one of these practices has its own unique traits.

One important reason for the extraordinary similarities among these three practices is due to the fact that all of them developed from the same basic principles based on life energy or Chi, and its development. The all-encompassing objectives inherent in Yoga, Qigong, and Tai Chi, are practically the same, and can be generally depicted as the following.

The Shared Objectives of Yoga, Qigong, & Tai Chi

 The stringent application of specific breathing methods to produce these positive reactions

 Address emotional, mental, and physical disturbances.

 Work and Build with Chi, the gentle bioelectric energy that is life in the realm of form.

 Enhance the general outlook of the practitioner as well as the acuity of the brain.

 Preserve physical integrity in the internal organs, muscles, and skeleton, as well as the respiratory and circulatory systems

 Raise the potential for happiness, enlightenment, and spiritual awareness.

The Differences between Yoga, Qigong & Tai Chi

These energy-building practices are thousands of years old and each has undergone a lot of organic changes, generating within the systems hundreds of branches. Zooming in on the detailed differences among these three systems can be a bit difficult, but differences do exist.

A few general differences may be mentioned, as briefly outlined below:

 The martial arts practice of Tai Chi includes methods for defending and attacking against enemies. The appropriate practice of Tai Chi typically entails the use and comprehension of Qigong.

 Qigong puts emphasis on breathing while striving to open up energy centers or Chakras.

 Yoga gives priority to muscle stretching, alongside a variety of the same breathing techniques used to enhance and relax the stretching positions.

Simply select the ones that seem to fit your needs if you’re interested in exploring these arts. A lot of practitioners utilize all three arts or different combinations of them and discover that they blend very well with each other. Noted side paths such as the esoteric practice of the Tai Chi Ruler can also be included in the bunch with howling success for a lot of practitioners.

Jamie Catlett is an acupuncturist in Jacksonville, FL and the founder of Jacksonville Acupuncture Clinic.