A little while ago I was asked to write an article for EDGE LIFE (maga / webzine). They were interested in the health benifits derived from martial arts practice. We practice a form of qigong (chi gong) we call the ‘Daoist 5.4′. The health benefits of qigong touch us in spirit, mind and body (a phrase any martial artist should recognize).

Cognition

Other benefits to proper breathing include improved memory, enhanced thinking and problem solving, improved concentration and a decrease in fatigue.

On a special with Dr. Phil McGraw (yes, that Dr. Phil) several students were profiled who were significantly underperforming in school. Dr. McGraw had each of them work with a representative of the MENSA (high IQ) group. The MENSA representative concentrated on three techniques proven to make the biggest difference in cognition: breathing, rhythmic movement and focus.

The MENSA expert explained that breathing oxygenates the blood, providing more oxygen to the brain for better thinking. Rhythmic movement helped to release endorphins to calm the student, facilitate a mind/body connection and provide a feeling of well-being. Finally, by practicing concentration, or focus, the student learned to block out distractions.

Each student was tested, given a brief lesson in the three techniques and tested again. In every case the students’ performance increased significantly. In the follow up, one young man went from failing grades to “A” marks in three weeks.

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