This is my favorite definition and it is spot on. Qigong (Chi-kung) is an ancient Chinese system of self-cultivation developed specifically as a means by which each individual may take personal responsibility for protecting health, promoting vitality and prolonging life, while cultivating spiritual awareness and insight. Based on the primordial principles of classical Taoist philosophy, chi-gung is simple and practical – the practitioner learns how to harness the fundamental forces of the cosmos (Heaven), balance them with the elemental energies of nature (Earth) and harmonize them with the essence energy and spirit of human life (Humanity). Chi-gung (Qigong) thus enables the individual to amplify his or her personal power with the infinite power of the Universe.*

*excerpt from A Complete Guide to Chi-Gung Harnessing the Power of the Universe, by Daniel Reid copyright 1998.