Qigong, Chinese Medicine and Depression
Roger Hirsh, O.M.D.
Chinese medicine as well as the many Chinese healing arts and martial arts are based on the concept of Qi or vital force. Chinese philosophy believes that the free and unobstructed flow of qi throughout the organ meridian system of the body brings radiant health, whereas its blockage or stagnation results in reduced energy that can lead to health problems. There is a strong recognition in Chinese Medicine of the role of the emotions in health and illness. When the body and mind move in harmony, positive emotions prevail. Depression, however, is due to a stagnation of emotional Qi within an individual's internal organs, especially the liver, kidneys and lungs. If the Qi is deeply stagnated for a period of time it can affect every organ meridian system and cause severe depression.
Dr. Hirsh, a respected doctor of Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, and a longtime teacher of Qigong and taiji (tai chi), leads the reader in a journey into the secrets of Qigong, an ancient Chinese art of energy training and rejuvenation. Qigong is increasingly utilized in health care settings worldwide, and is used in both the prevention and treatment of depression. For those experiencing either acute or deep-seated depression, Hirsh provides some simple Qigong exercises which involves breathing, visualization and movement to stimulate and energize. The first set of Qigong exercises are warm-ups that can be performed either individually or as a group to help deal with mild to moderate depression. The second group, "The Eight Silken Brocades" is a set of ancient exercises that help to stimulate and tonify the whole biomechanical system of the body in order to relieve stress, maintain youthfulness, and promote general well-being.