Effects of Qigong on Neuro-electrophysiology

In modern Qigong research, the exploration of its impact on neuroelectrophysiology holds a significant position. Studies in this realm have focused on evaluating the influence of Qigong practice, including self-meditation and external Qi emission, on various aspects such as spontaneous electroencephalographic (EEG) waves, evoked EEG waves, and neurotransmitters. The integration of the ET scan brain technique into Qigong research has paved the way for a series of groundbreaking discoveries.

Impact on Spontaneous Potential

During an EEG recording, the spontaneous potential reflects the baseline electrical activity of the brain, providing valuable insights into the individual's neurological function and overall brain health. The initial report on the effect of Qigong on spontaneous potential dates back to 1959. Notably, the EEG recordings of Internal Nourishing Qigong practitioners revealed an increase in the amplitude of α-waves, alongside a decrease in their frequency, with a notable observation of the wave spreading from the occipital lobe to the frontal lobe. Subsequent studies outlined the spread of the θ-wave from the frontal lobe to the back of the cerebral cortex, displaying increased amplitude and a trend towards reduced frequency. The index of EEG α-waves signifies a state of tranquility, which can be influenced by various activities. An elevation in α-wave amplitude during Qigong practice suggests an attainment of a tranquil state.

It has been reported that highly skilled Qigong practitioners tend to exhibit a brain α-wave frequency close to 8 Hz, mirroring the Schumann-wave frequency of 7.83 Hz present in the earth's magnetic field. This resonance between the electromagnetic fields of the human brain and the earth serves as a physical model supporting the classic Chinese Qigong concept of the unity of "Heaven and Men."

Harvard University's Benson and Wallace, in 1971, were among the pioneers to examine the spontaneous brain waves of Relaxing Quiescent Qigong practitioners using power spectrum analysis. They represented the increase in energy within the α-wave frequency range. Subsequent studies in 1982 at the Institute of Aviation Medicine demonstrated: 1) an increase in energy within α-wave frequencies, 2) a reversal phenomenon between the frontal and occipital lobes, and 3) a leftward shift in α-wave frequency, declining to 7.5–8 Hz.

In 1984, while employing the ET technique to observe brain activities during the Qigong state, researchers at the Traditional Chinese Medical Institute of Guangzhou stumbled upon the symmetrical balanced concentration status of the cerebral cortex, manifesting as a "Taiji Graph of the Up/Down Brain Wave." This finding aligned with the principles of Chinese Qigong, emphasizing the interconnectedness and mutual dependence of Yin and Yang for maintaining equilibrium.

The Shanghai Qigong Research Institute delved into this domain in 1996, utilizing advanced AR model spectrum estimation and chaos signal correlate dimension for analyzing spontaneous brain waves. They established two indicators to assess the level of consciousness and meditation during meditative Qigong. Notably, these indicators exhibited significant enhancement during Qigong practice and a swift return to normal afterward. Further research conducted in 2000 based on synchronous data sampling of respiratory waves, ECG, and EEG, with the application of the 32K FFT algorithm and various estimation methods, led to the establishment of two Qigong models based on different instructors.

In 2008, the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine conducted a "physiological and mental dual directional study on Shaolin Zen-style practitioners" under a national natural science fund project. The study revealed various characteristics of the brain wave during Zen-style Qigong practice, indicating a strong connection between the adopted Qigong methods, individual thinking modes, and the observed brain wave changes.

Despite the significant progress, the mechanism underlying the alteration of brain waves during Qigong practice remains challenging to illustrate. Nevertheless, these studies underscore the intricate relationship between Qigong practice, individual potential, and cognitive processes, hinting at a promising direction for future research in this domain.

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