There are numerous kinds of Qigong exercises, each with its own features and effects, differing according to posture, method, form, style and purpose. At present there are nearly four hundred kinds of Qigong in China. Generally, it can be divided into Quiescent Qigong, Dynamic Qigong and Emitting Qigong.

There are four main postures in Qigong exercises, namely, lying, sitting, standing and walking. Although there are various ways to practice Qigong, the following three are essential. For example, regulating the mind, regulating the body and regulating the breath. Regulating the mind into a state of tranquility, or calming the mind, is the most fundamental skill in Qigong practice. This method was also called heart-regulation in ancient China. Calm the mind and avoid worrying about worldly cares, and then Essential Qi will be able to travel smoothly along the channels and the body will not be invaded by diseases. In modern medical terms, this method can induce the activity of the cerebral cortex which control the brain and the rest of the body, relieves the cerebral cortex of pathological tension or excitation caused by certain illness, thus helping it to regain its power to regulate the function of the body. Regulation of the body is also an important skill in Qigong practice. According to scientific experiments, the oxygen consumption and metabolic rate during Qigong practice are even lower than during a sound sleep, which is beneficial for reducing consumption of vital energy, allowing it to reaccumulate. In this way, Qigong exercise helps cure some chronic disease and strengthen health. Regulating the breath, with the help of slow and smooth movements of the body, promotes circulation in the portal veins as well as in the systemic and pulmonary circulatory systems. The net result of this exercise is an increase in the vital capacity of the lung, improved functioning of the heart and stimulation of metabolism, thus creating favorable conditions for recovery of the heath.

It is generally believed that through regulating the body, regulating the mind, and regulating the breath, Qigong can increase vitality and promote longevity.

Even though there is such a variety of Qigong, each with its own fentures and requirments, the general principles for them are the same, which including combination of relaxation, inward peace, natural movements, flow of Qi, integration of movements, quiescence, flexibility in the upper body ans stability in the lower body, a moderate amount of exercise, and exercising in an oederly way.