Qigong: what the research says

Qigong may help balance and sleep quality. For pain, stress and low mood, studies are small and results mixed. More research is needed.

What a session is

Qigong (say 'chee gong') combines slow, smooth movements or still postures with slow, deep breathing and focused attention. It comes from China; tai chi is one form of it.

What the research says

• Balance and falls (older people): Reviews suggest qigong may help balance and help prevent falls. Most studies are small; tai chi, one form of qigong, is better studied. Some evidence it may help · NCCIH, 2022
• Sleep: Small studies found qigong improved sleep quality compared with no exercise. The studies were low quality, so more research is needed. Some evidence it may help · NCCIH, 2022
• Back, neck and muscle tension: Some small studies found less neck or back pain, but results conflict. Qigong may help about as much as other gentle exercise. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2022
• Stress and worry: Some studies suggest qigong may ease stress and anxiety, but the evidence is low quality and uncertain. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2024 · NCCIH, 2024
• Low mood: Studies of qigong found mixed effects on low mood. If low mood lasts, see a doctor. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2022 · NCCIH, 2024
• Menopause and grief: Not studied for menopause symptoms or grief in the sources we use. No good evidence yet

More on each need: Sleep better · A relaxed body · Handle stress better · Feel calmer · Lift your mood · Menopause wellbeing · Grief and loss

Is it safe?

Qigong appears safe; reported problems are mostly minor muscle soreness. Rarely, qigong practised wrongly or with unrealistic hopes has been linked to mental health problems. Don't use it to put off seeing a doctor. NCCIH, 2022 · NCCIH, 2024

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

Checked 22 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.