Depression and Qigong Treatment
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Qigong (chee-gong) is a meditative movement, similar to Tai Chi. It is an Eastern technique derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine. My doctoral dissertation was written after my clinical research study applied the ancient practice of qigong with a group of severely depressed subjects. The research project was most successful and the subjects showed significant improvement after only a two-month period of daily qigong practice of 40 minutes. This study is now the subject of an exciting new book "Managing Depression with Qigong" by Frances Gaik.
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Qi is thought to be the energy, or the universal source of life, and ‘gong’ refers to the movement or the art of cultivating the energy. The energy movement within the body is based upon the meridian system, which is utilized in acupuncture treatment.
People who suffer from depression are energically bankrupt and anti-depressant medication is meant to increase levels of serotonin in the neurochemistry of the endocrine system. Someone who is depressed lacks energy, suffers from insomnia, fatigue, and loses interest in life. Over a long term, this can have serious consequences. Qigong practice has been shown to increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the body without the use of prescribed medication. Qigong, used on a regular basis, can be an effective complementary and alternative treatment, and is not intended to replace prescribed medication, but it does make medication more efficient.
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Managing Depression with Qigong describes, in simple layman’s terms, the process by which depression and negative thinking can create problems, how qigong can work to manage symptoms, and provides a complete treatment plan toward full recovery. If you or someone you know suffers from depression, the book is a mandatory basic to understanding the illness and provides a simple “how to” format to move toward greater health and harmony.
Contact Dr. Gaik to schedule a Qigong Seminar or visit the Books page purchase a copy of her new book, "Managing Depression with Qigong".
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