Has Growing Old Become Outdated?

Our high-tech American society is busy attempting to delay the effects of aging. Innovative techniques of cosmetic surgery insure a superficial appearance of youth and constant dieting, and extreme exercise gives a promise of youth. However, in the light of all things assured, has growing old actually become outdated?

In a maze of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, medical devices, and transplantation, where does the illusion end and truth of vibrant health and longevity begin?

Master Lawrence Choi’s answer to that question is “Practice Qigong daily”. Who is Master Choi and what is Qigong?

Master Choi is an 87-year-old trainer from Oakland, California. He proves that 87 is just a number by instructing and participating in a three hour long, 7 day a week Qigong exercise regiment-outdoors, rain or shine. He explains that anyone can start at any age with no worries about injury, even if one has never exercised before. He guarantees that no matter what your health problem is, this regimen will improve your health and decrease symptoms of many debilitating diseases like arthritis, asthma, heart disease, and diabetes. He strongly suggests, however, that any one under a doctor’s care continue to see their doctor and not confuse a sense of well-being with a cure.

Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) is not the same practice method as the renowned Tai Chi. Qigong is a level of Tai Chi but different movements distinguish it. According to definition, it means cultivating energy (chi). Implementing deep, controlled breathing is an integral part of the practice. It activates the lymphatic system, which in turn cleanses the body. Proper breathing moves chi energy into the spinal column. This places one in a relaxed, meditative state.

Qigong is a phenomenal technique that is thousands of years old. It incorporates well over 4,000 styles, and combines therapeutic health care, preventive health care, physical training, and philosophy.

Authors Myeong Soo Lee and Byung G Kim state, "Heart rate, respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure, and rate-pressure product were significantly decreased during qi-training”, according to a 2000 study. “Just one session of qi gong can result in a temporary fall in blood pressure.”

Eastern and western medical practitioners agree that Qigong exercise develops a relaxed mind, flexible back, sound joints, and strong muscles. These health benefits combined are undeniably characteristics of youth. From this perspective, it is easy to ascertain that growing old has truly become “a thing of the past”.

                                                                                                                                                         

Myeong Soo Lee, Byung Gi Kim, et al. “Effect of Qi-training on blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate. Clinical Psychology 2000: 20(3), 173-176.ve of youth.

       If you have any questions about QiGong, be sure to post in the comments section.