The 6th European Health Qigong Games
The 6th European Health Qigong Games and Vienna International Health Qigong Festival
The 6th European Health Qigong Games and Vienna International Health Qigong Festival were successfully held in Vienna, Austria, from September 26 to 29, 2024. The event brought together 221 Health Qigong practitioners from 26 countries and regions, including representatives from 22 European IHQF member organizations across 16 European countries, as well as 14 IHQF members and non-member Health Qigong groups from 10 other countries and regions.
This success was made possible by the enthusiastic support of all participants and the exceptional efforts of the Austrian Health Qigong Association. Their organization of diverse, innovative, and vibrant activities ensured a rich and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Opening Ceremony in Donau Park
The opening ceremony took place on the picturesque outdoor lawn of Vienna’s Donau Park. Ms. Luise Daeger-Gregorim, Deputy Governor of Vienna District 22, delivered a speech on behalf of Mr. Ernst Woller, President of the Vienna State Assembly. The event was graced by prominent guests, including Professor Richard Trappl, Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Vienna; Master Shi Yanliang, Director of the Shaolin Cultural Center in Vienna; and Board members and experts from the International Health Qigong Federation (IHQF).
The opening was officially announced by IHQF President Yang Chunbo.
During the ceremony, over 200 Health Qigong enthusiasts from around the globe performed the traditional Chinese health exercise – Baduanjin, showcasing its elegance and health benefits. The event garnered media attention, with Vienna TV airing a 2-minute and 34-second segment and the Vienna bureau of Xinhua News Agency providing additional coverage through photos and videos.
Health Qigong at the United Nations Headquarters in Vienna
On September 25, 2024, in collaboration with the United Nations Women’s Guild Vienna, the International Health Qigong Federation (IHQF) hosted an introductory session for members of the Women’s Guild and UN staff at the UN Headquarters in Vienna. Approximately 70 participants, accompanied by IHQF Board members, experienced the ancient Chinese health practice under the guidance of the world-renowned Health Qigong expert, Master Zhang Mingliang.
Master Zhang used simple and concise language, on-site demonstrations, metaphors, and storytelling to explain the basic theories and historical origins of Health Qigong. He emphasized the principles and techniques of the “Three Regulations” and guided participants through practical exercises, including a one-minute stretching routine and a one-minute clapping exercise.
The session sparked enthusiastic engagement, with participants flooding Master Zhang with questions. His educational and humorous responses helped deepen their understanding of Chinese health philosophies and the cultural richness behind Health Qigong. The event captivated attendees, earning their admiration and recognition.
Following the session, a proposal was made to establish long-term Health Qigong courses at the UN Headquarters. This eye-opening event was featured in The European Times and the newsletter of the United Nations Women’s Guild Vienna, further highlighting its significance.
Health Qigong Public Lecture Hall – University of Vienna
A free public seminar on Health Qigong was held at the University of Vienna on September 26, 2024. Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is not only Austria’s oldest and most prestigious institution of higher learning but also the oldest university in the German-speaking world, with an impressive legacy of producing 21 Nobel Prize winners. Hosting a Health Qigong event at such a distinguished university carries significant importance in promoting and raising awareness of this ancient practice.
This seminar was part of the 6th European Health Qigong Games and Vienna International Health Qigong Festival, held from September 26 to 29, 2024, in Vienna. The event attracted more than 200 Health Qigong enthusiasts from various countries, highlighting the growing international interest in this traditional Chinese practice.
Health Qigong is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine, promoting the free flow of energy throughout the body through physical exercises, mental cultivation, and regulated breathing. The inclusion of such seminars in prestigious academic settings underscores the global recognition of its health benefits.
The University of Vienna’s commitment to hosting events like this seminar reflects its dedication to fostering cultural exchange and promoting holistic health practices. Such initiatives contribute to a broader understanding and appreciation of diverse health traditions worldwide.
Innovative Team Competitions
A total of 117 participants took part in the competition. While the traditional individual competition was maintained, bold explorations and innovations were introduced in the team events. One highlight was the “1568 Team PK Competition,” which featured a judges’ comment voting and resurrection system similar to entertainment competitions. For the first time in an international setting, participating teams were allowed to choose their own music and freely arrange their formations, resulting in impressive on-site performances.
Another groundbreaking event, the “International Cooperation Challenge,” involved drawing lots to form temporary teams from different countries after registration. This format tested the cooperation and problem-solving skills of team members to the fullest. The teams delivered remarkable performances, surpassing all expectations. The most touching moment came when the teams shared stories of how their cooperation and mutual inspiration helped them overcome challenges, earning wholehearted applause from the audience.
Additionally, for the first time, the team competitions were held in the beautiful Parlais Ehrbar Concert Hall, where the event showcased the true beauty of Health Qigong.
Training seminars at the Sportcenter Donau City
A total of 135 participants attended the training courses, where the exceptional teaching of Master Zhang Mingliang and Professor Liu Xiaolei left a lasting impression. Participants expressed that they gained valuable insights and felt profoundly enriched by the experience.
Executive Board Meeting – Sportcenter Donaucity
The 3rd IHQF Executive Board meeting convened on September 26 to discuss key matters and ongoing initiatives.
Farewell to Vienna! Let’s reunite in Vancouver for the 11th World Health Qigong Tournament and Exchange, taking place from July 21 to 27, 2025.
