Qigong is the ancient chinese art of developing internal energy and unlike yoga, places less emphasis on stretching movements and postures, and more on how to feel and move energy within the body.

Some of the basic routines involve standing still for periods ranging from a few minutes to hours at a time, to create awareness of the movement of energy in the body.

Other exercises involve flowing movements that are gentle and almost rhythmic in nature in an attempt to generate and conserve energy, rather than burning calories.

Although qigong is not a highly aerobic exercise, it's benefits include toning the body, creating greater flexibility and a tremendous sense of relaxation.

As well, the controlled breathing during a qigong session helps to provide inner focus, relieve blocked qi, and increase energy levels.