Arthritis and rheumatism are related but distinct conditions. Arthritis involves pain and inflammation of the joints and bones. Rheumatism is a broader, non-technical term for pain in and around the joints — everyone with arthritis has a form of rheumatism, but not vice versa.
From a TCM perspective, both conditions arise from blockages to harmonious qi flow through the meridians. The four exercises below from the 18 Lohan Hands are the most cost-effective for addressing these blockages.
Recommended Exercises
Big Turn of the Cosmos
Stimulates qi flow to massage the internal organs and is directly beneficial for those with rheumatism.
Fierce Tiger Pushing Mountains
Stimulates energy flow through the meridian network of the back and arms — beneficial for both arthritis and rheumatism, particularly in the upper body.
Green Dragon Presenting Claws
One of the more technically demanding exercises in the set, but highly beneficial for the limbs of both the upper and lower body — a strong choice for arthritis and rheumatism affecting the extremities.
Lift Heels Bend Knees
Physically demanding, but for those who are ready it promotes the Small Universal Qi Flow and encourages energy to flow to the extremities of the body — beneficial for arthritis and rheumatism throughout. Note: avoid this exercise if you have a diagnosed hypertension condition.
Form vs Qigong: An Important Distinction
The benefits above are only available when these exercises are practiced as qigong — with a Qigong State of Mind (QSoM) and genuine energy flow. Practicing the physical movements alone will not produce the same results. The form is not the art of qigong.
Learning directly from a qualified instructor is strongly recommended. If that isn’t possible, your next best option is to learn qigong online. The exercises above are taught in full inside my online course.
