QIGONG IS A traditional Chinese practice, developed over some 2,000 years, that combines breathing patterns with physical movement in a way that proponents say helps to keep you healthy.
'I've been doing it for about seven years,' says 35-year-old Phil Duffy. 'I'm definitely stronger and fitter because of it, and there's a level of energy from it that you don't get from anything else.'
Proponents say it helps prevent and treat illnesses, reduces stress and brings peace of mind, but methods vary depending on a person's needs.
Duffy's trainer, William Wan of Wan Kei Ho International Martial Arts Association in Sheung Wan, says qigong can be active or inactive (done while sitting or lying down). 'It's good for your health, but there are different ways to achieve these benefits,' he says. Variations include quiescent, dynamic, Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, medical and martial.
Thomas Fan, a director and instructor at the Pyramid Wellness Centre in Central, says his classes are designed to promote health, improve posture and assist in rehabilitation from injuries.
'There's a series of postures and movements that are similar to tai chi, but the emphasis is on breathing patterns,' Fan says. 'It's about using correct posture to improve breathing and the way you relax your body.'