It all started when I finally nailed my nighttime routine\u2014an earlier bedtime that left me with something I hadn\u2019t had in years: more time in the morning.<\/p>\n
For the first few days, I filled that time with how many, I\u2019m sure, end up doing: scrolling social media in bed. Then a qigong practice appeared on my TikTok feed and changed the rhythm of my day.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how qigong won me over when I practiced it every day for a week, and what the experts say about how it works.<\/p>\n Article continues below <\/p>\n You may like<\/p>\n What is qigong? <\/p>\n Qigong<\/a> is an ancient Chinese practice that combines slow and gentle movement with breathwork and intention to cultivate energy flow (also known as qi) in the body.<\/p>\n \u201cQi is the vital energy that flows through every living thing and if our qi becomes stagnant, you may experience disharmony that leaves you feeling unlike yourself,\u201d explains Eloise Lambert, qigong instructor and founder of FAWE<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cThe three main tools for working with your energy in qigong are your mind, body and breath, which is where meditation, movement and breathwork come in,\u201d Lambert tells Fit&Well.<\/p>\n \u201cRegular qigong practice helps with reducing stress, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure,” explains Emma Tian Williamson, qigong teacher and founder of Flow & Create<\/a>.<\/p>\n The slow mindful movement combined with breathwork helps regulate the nervous system, shifting you out of any fight-or-flight stress response you might be in, and into your parasympathetic nervous system\u2019s rest and digest mode.<\/p>\n Research also suggests qigong practices can help manage stress<\/a>, support mood<\/a> and may improve sleep.<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cUltimately, the practice is about helping you feel more healthy, balanced and vibrant,\u201d Lambert says. \u201cIt\u2019s gentle and accessible to every age and fitness level.\u201d<\/p>\n What to read next<\/p>\n