Benefits of Qigong: a 3-Months Online Course

Background: Qigong is an ancient Chinese health practice integrating slow, mindful movements, regulated breathing, and meditative awareness to promote the circulation of vital energy, and enhance overall well-being.Methods: A prospective, longitudinal, exploratory study was carried out to investigate the effects of Qigong on the overall quality of life following a three-month online Qigong course (<i>n</i> = 21). Data were collected using The World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version questionnaire, and supplemented with self-reported measures of pain, anxiety, and sleep quality.Results: A 10.86% improvement in the overall quality of life (from 68.44 to 75.87; <i>p</i> < 0.001) was observed. Physical (<i>p</i> = 0.003), psychological (<i>p</i> = 0.004), social (<i>p</i> = 0.046), and environmental (<i>p</i> = 0.001) domains also demonstrated meaningful gains, with notable increases in energy levels, daily functioning, self-esteem, and sleep quality. Over half of the participants reported marked reductions in pain severity, and anxiety, and 54.7% experienced improvements in sleep quality (ranging from 70% to 100% of baseline values). Course adherence was high, with most participants expressing satisfaction, willingness to recommend the program, and interest in continuing Qigong practice.Conclusion: Qigong may boost physical and mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality. To corroborate these findings, large-scale, multicenter, randomized, controlled trials are necessary.