Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) is an excellent form of exercise for gout prevention as well as gout treatment. Typically it is done standing up, but if you are having a gout attack in your foot you can do the exercises sitting or lying down as well.
Qigong helps manage gout by:
- Reducing stress levels,
- Increasing blood oxygenation,
- Improving blood flow to the joints,
- Enhancing joint flexibility, and
- Improving digestion.
What is Qigong?
Qigong is a system of body movement that combines physical exercises, breathing exercises, and meditation.
As was one of the foundations of ancient Chinese Medicine, qigong works by restoring the flow of “Qi” in the body. Qi is the vital energy, or life force, that ideally should be in a constant state of flow throughout the body.
In Traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that all disease (including gout) results from the blockage or stagnation of Qi.
How Does Qigong Help Gout?
The magic of qigong lies in its ability to restore the flow of “Qi” where it is blocked in the body.
Sometimes this blockage is occurring at an energetic level, as is the case with mental stress or emotional distress. And sometimes the stagnation is occurring at the physical level, when the flow of blood or lymph has been restricted.
Qigong works on both the physical and energetic levels.
How to Learn Qigong for Gout
- First, become familiar with qigong breathing techniques.
- Next, introduce qigong movement through exercises that will loosen the joints and warm up the muscles. This is particularly important if you have not done any physical activity in a while, in order to prevent injury.
- Finally, incorporate the more intensive qigong exercises that are particularly helpful in overcoming gout.
You can learn how to practice qigong for gout via DVD in the comfort of your home.
How to Modify Qigong for Gout
If you cannot bear weight on your foot or leg at this time, simply sit in a sturdy chair that has no arms, and proceed with the DVD exercises.
Alternatively, you can lie on the floor on your back and perform the same movements in the air.
☆ Bottom Line: Qigong is a form of exercise that helps gout on the physical, mental and spiritual planes. To truly conquer gout once and for all, you need to tackle it on all these levels!