Is Baduanjin Qigong Scientifically Proven?
Having a long history throughout China, Baduanjin Qigong is a well-respected and scientifically studied mind-body practice.

Unlike many natural healing systems, Baduanjin Qigong has been thoroughly reviewed and studied, and published in a number of scientific journals. This has allowed researchers to observe the effects of Baduanjin Qigong in relation to varying health issues.

What Is Baduanjin Qigong?

Also known as Eight Section Brocade, Baduanjin Qigong is a form of traditional Chinese Qigong with a vast history, spanning over 1000 years. The goal is to incorporate physical movements and postures with specific breathing exercises.

Characterized by eight simple movements, all of which are based on the traditional Chinese medicine theory, Baduanjin Qigong is easy to learn. It is said that by releasing internal body energy, those who practice Baduanjin Qigong can experience diverse health benefits.

Recommended by the Chinese Health Qigong Association, Baduanjin Qigong has both medical and science merits, offering a potential intervention in relation to your health and overall quality of life.

Baduanjin Qigong: Scientifically Tested

The number of Baduanjin Qigong practitioners has grown across the globe, resulting in a series of scientific studies. These studies have focused on everything from sleep quality to balance, cardiovascular health to mental health.

While numerous studies have been conducted, this 2017 review highlights key findings in relation to six databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar.

To be eligible, studies had to meet the following criteria:

• Studies had to be peer-reviewed in either Chinese or English
• Include randomized controlled trials
• The original studies had to be published between the years 2002 to 2016, ensuring the most up-to-date research was included
• Baduanjin Qigong had to be the main intervention within each study
• At least one outcome had to relate to sleep quality, heart rate, quality of life, blood pressure, or other areas of physical health
• Participants had to be of adult age

Further assessed for methodological quality using a standard PEDro scale, many variables were analyzed. Data was then extracted, and the reviewers contacted the authors when specific data was not obtainable or required further explanation.

Additional Research Related to the Benefits of Baduanjin Qigong

Other studies associated with Baduanjin Qigong include, but are not limited to:

• A 2015 study focused on a community of elders in relation to ischemic stroke risk. After completing a 12-week Baduanjin Qigong training program, nearly all participants stated this form of qigong could enhance organ functions (i.e. cardiovascular function and digestion); boost immunity; increase relaxation; and improve mood. It was concluded that Baduanjin Qigong may help promote positive psychological and physical health among the elderly population.
• A 2016 study observed 100 participants with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease. Randomly assigned to one of two groups, the experimental group focused on a Baduanjin Qigong program for 6 months, in comparison to the control group which walked daily for 30 minutes. It was found that Baduanjin Qigong improved sleep quality and mobility, as well as gait performance in older adults living with Parkinson’s.
• Another 2017 study highlighted the effect of Baduanjin Qigong on fitness and balance in older individuals with type 2 diabetes. In total, 94 participants were assigned to one of two groups — a no intervention group or a Baduanjin Qigong group (trained for six months, participating in five 1-2 hour sessions per week). It was found that Baduanjin Qigong may have the potential to increase muscle strength, improve balance and flexibility, while decreasing HbA1c levels — an indicator of average blood sugar levels over a period of weeks or months.
• This 2019 study focused on Baduanjin Qigong as a possible treatment option for ankylosing spondylitis (AS) — a form of arthritis that primarily impacts the spine. A total of 60 patients were assigned to a 12-week Baduanjin Qigong training group or a no-treatment group. Those in the Baduanjin Qigong group experienced a reduction in fatigue and morning stiffness, improving overall AS symptoms.

Does Baduanjin Qigong Have Proven Health Benefits

Baduanjin Qigong has been studied in relation to a number of health issues and ailments. However, in the comprehensive review discussed above, the main benefits were as follows:

• Quality of Life — Out of a total of six Baduanjin Qigong studies, four showed significant effects on quality of life. In turn, this practice may offer a simple strategy for promoting greater quality of life. This effect tends to be more prominent among elderly individuals and those living with chronic conditions. Positive results were observed after at least two 30-minute sessions weekly for a minimum duration of 8 weeks.
• Sleep Quality — Pooled results showed that Baduanjin Qigong is effective when aiming to improve sleep quality. Researchers believe that in order to maximize results, healthcare professionals should combine training sessions and educational lessons.
• Physical Fitness — Five out of the six studies showcased positive effects on physical balance, observed for young and older adults, in addition to Parkinson’s patients. Beneficial effects can be observed following a minimum of four 30-60 minute sessions per week. Muscular and handgrip strength also improved, in addition to leg power and trunk flexibility.
• Cardiovascular and Respiratory Parameters — After examining nine studies, a medium effect was found in relation to systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The research indicates that a minimum of three sessions of 30-60 minutes per week is necessary when aiming to improve blood pressure. Baduanjin Qigong was also shown to improve vital capacity while reducing resting heart rate.

In summary, the above review concluded that Baduanjin Qigong is beneficial for sleep quality, flexibility, balance, quality of life, blood pressure, strength, and resting heart rate.

As Baduanjin Qigong continues to grow in popularity across the globe, further studies will likely be conducted, focusing on sample size, study design, and the inclusion of a long-term follow-up.