Often times Tai Chi and Qi gong can be thought of as the same. Is that true? 

Many people also want to know what the what is the difference between tai chi and qi gong?

Let’s find out what . . . 

The eight differences between Tai Chi and Qigong are as follows:

1. When Tai Chi is practiced at an advanced level, it brings about the accumulation of Qi throughout the meridians, ligaments, and tendons. If there is a continuous flow of Qi in a constant stream, it builds up to high levels – on the other hand, in Qi gong, the Qi flow is considered less powerful. 

2. Tai chi power is considered dense, but Qigong power is light. Tai Chi is intricate; the Qi it generates at a high level have subtle characteristics that changes its form throughout the set, forming an integral part of the whole body. In Qi gong, the forms are less intricate, and the QI is expressed more generally, with its characteristics less defined. 

3. Tai Chi maneuvers involve an elaborate and advance choreography, unlike in Qi gong.

4. Qi gong is concerned about cultivating the Qi, with no need to study the forms. Whereas Tai Chi is centered on the forms involving connection, coordination, integration, alignment, unity, and precision – the Qi is manifested as a result of the form.

5. Meditation Qi gong involves going very deep into the realm of consciousness. Whereas Tai Chi is a moving meditation that is less intense.

6. Meditation Qi gong is used for its healing powers, treating illnesses and diseases. Whereas Tai chi has been shown to improve mindful focus, range of motion, and better circulation. 

7. Meditation Qi gong can be used to advance spiritual development, whereas in Qi gong, you can only feel the flow of power, energy, and QI, but not spiritual awareness.

8. It is generally believed that Tai chi is a specific form of Qi gong, but it is not the only style. While Tai Chi involves a series of postures and exercises, Qi gong, on the other hand, can be practiced in no particular order.

References 

Griffith JM; Hasley JP; Liu H; Severn DG; Conner LH; Adler LE; (n.d.). Qigong stress reduction in hospital staff. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18823261/

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Klein, P. (2017, January 12). Qigong in Cancer Care: Theory, Evidence-Base, and Practice. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5597070/

Liu X;Clark J;Siskind D; Williams GM; Byrne G; Yang JL; Doi SA; (n.d.). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Qigong and Tai Chi for depressive symptoms. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26275645/

Lynch, M., Sawynok, J., Hiew, C., & Marcon, D. (2012, August 03). A randomized controlled trial of Qigong for fibromyalgia. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3580572/

Putiri, A. L., Close, J. R., Lilly, H. R., Guillaume, N., & Sun, G. (2017, August 09). Qigong Exercises for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5622394/

Tai Chi and Qi Gong: In Depth. (n.d.). Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tai-chi-and-qi-gong-in-depth

Xiong, X., Wang, P., Li, X., & Zhang, Y. (2015, January). Qigong for hypertension: A systematic review. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4602820/