The second E in the PERFECT Qigong system stands for Energy Flow — and it is arguably the most important step of all. If a qigong practice does not incorporate genuine energy flow, it is worth questioning whether what is being practiced is qigong at all.
What Energy Flow Is
After completing the form, the practitioner lowers their arms, lets go, and does nothing. This is Energy Flow. Qi has its own intelligence — left alone, it flows naturally to wherever there are blockages in the body’s meridians, removes them, and restores harmonious energy flow. The result is improved health, vitality, and in time, longevity.
The instruction is simple: let go and do nothing.
Why Doing Nothing Is Harder Than It Sounds
The most common mistake in Energy Flow is interference. Qi flows where attention goes — so if a practitioner with knee problems focuses their attention on their knees during Energy Flow, that is where the Qi goes. But knee problems are typically rooted in the kidneys, not the knees. Three months of misdirected attention later, the knees are no better, and it’s easy to conclude that qigong doesn’t work.
The body’s energy system knows where the problem is. The practitioner’s job is to get out of the way and let it work. This is also why visualizations are generally discouraged during this phase — for a fuller explanation, see the qigong visualization guidance.
What Energy Flow Looks Like
Energy Flow may manifest as gentle swaying, larger movements, stillness, or anything in between. The form it takes reflects what the body needs. There is no correct external appearance — only the quality of letting go matters.
Continue to the Next Step
Next: C — Cosmic Balance
Previous: F — Form
Back to: The PERFECT Qigong System
