It seems to me that practicing Qigong is almost irrelevant if the correct breathing techniques are not used. In my limited understanding of Qigong, it appears that most of the benefits of "opening up the meridians" come from the breathing rather than the formal postures.

Is my understanding of this true Tim?

thanks,

Dancing Mantis

Dancing Mantis,
Well, it's hard to make any absolute statements about qigong practices, the term is used for such a wide range of exercises.

I'd agree that practicing qigong without correct breathing techniques is irrelevant, since qigong is, by definition, "breathing exercises."

Most teachers I've seen will tell you that the postures and movements are "secondary" to the actual breathing techniques. But I'd say truly correct practice should incorporate breathing, posture and intent into a coherent whole.

Tim,

That brings me to the next question about breathing:

I have always understood (wrongly it seems after reading about whole body power) that the "real" internal energy of Kung Fu came from breathing or exhale when throwing a punch. Does breathing play a role in whole body power? Or Is it an additional force?

I have always noticed, especially Chen Tai Chi practicioners exhaling loudly at certain points in the form. I always attributed this to their release of Chi and thought that this was the true use of internal energy. Anyway, any help in understanding this would be appreciated! :-)

Dancing Mantis

There is no exhale without inhale

There is no shout without silence

Since the breath is a part of the whole of physical process, it will have an effect on power.

For maximum power, a person's alignment/rhythm of movement, focus of intent and breath need to be coordinated. There are different schools of thought on the role of the breath in training.
Some teachers use the breath to align the body and help time the movement. Others teachers believe when the body is aligned and moves correctly, the breath naturally coordinates (much like the breathing of a child).