Psychological Benefits of Qigong

Psychological Benefits of Qigong

Improves Quality of Life. Quality of life measures a person’s “perceived physical health, psychological state, personal beliefs, social relationships and relationship to relevant features of one’s environment.  Various studies across a wide range of participants — including healthy adults, patients with cancer, post-stroke, and arthritis — found that at least one aspect of quality of life was significantly improved by Qigong compared to inactive control groups.

Improves Self-Efficacy. Self-efficacy is the confidence a person feels when performing behaviors and their perceived ability to overcome the barriers associated with performing them. Self-efficacy — particularly with respect to the “perceived ability to handle stress or novel experiences” — was significantly improved after performing Qigong compared to an inactive control group.

Reduces Stress Biomarkers. A study of biomarkers related to stress responses found that norepinephrine, epinephrine, and blood cortisol levels were significantly decreased in response to Qigong compared to a control group.

Decreases Depression and Anxiety. Qigong has been shown to decrease symptoms of depression when compared to an inactive control, as evidenced by scores on depression scales across various studies. General mood improved significantly for participants who practiced Qigong compared to a control group.  In addition, anxiety decreased significantly for participants practicing Qigong compared to an active exercise group, as assessed by scales like the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale.