Nei Gong (Nei Kung) is a related term to Qi Gong, which can be translated as ‘internal’ (nei) ‘cultivation’ (gong). This can be a more specific term than Qi Gong, and often refers to internal martial arts practices (also to more meditative practices associated with Daoism). A key feature in the Chinese internal martial arts is the cultivation of Neijing, or ‘internal power’, through Nei Gong practices.
‘Nei Gong’ often refers to more in depth mind-body, breathing and movement practices that enable students to learn and embody the subtler and deeper (internal) aspects of practice.
The term Nei Gong can also be related to the terms ‘Gong Fu’ (Kung Fu) which refers to skill acquired through learning or practice or effort over time (Fu) – Gōng 功 means “work”, “achievement”, or “merit” – and the term ‘Jiben Gong’ – which refers to basic skills or foundation exercises. The term ‘Song Gong’ is also used to refer to exercises which develop the quality of relaxation and release (‘song’). These related terms are referring to practice and qualities which develop over time.
Nei Gong / Gong Fu practices include mobilising, stretching, static postures and focussed movement exercises, which can be more physically challening that simple Qigong. The level of challenge may simply be due to the time spent in the practice or the level of physical and mental engagement.
See also About Qigong section