Living the Tao-A Spiritual Podcast

Shorts | Tai Chi vs. Qigong: Build Power Without Breaking Your Body

July 28, 2026·11 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

What is the difference between tai chi and qigong—and why does that distinction matter? In this episode of Living the Tao Shorts, Master Mikel Steenrod and Morgan explain how qigong predates tai chi and how tai chi combines health-building qigong principles with a complete martial system. The discussion soon reaches a larger question: Should training produce a brief period of peak performance, even if the body pays for it later? Or should strength and power grow from a healthy foundation that can support you throughout your life? They explore longevity, the hidden martial side of tai chi, the importance of small stabilizing muscles, and why visible strength does not always equal lasting physical health. As Master Steenrod puts it, “You have to look at your lifespan when you’re looking at a life plan.”     Video version here: https://youtu.be/ggUou5KaMmQ 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com -From Beginner to Expert, examine our collection of free videos and articles on qi gong: https://www.watermountainvirtual.com/qi-gong-collection/ Premium Episodes, Full Catalog (4x the content), and episode commentary: https://living-the-tao.supercast.com     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Podzilla Summary coming soon

Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.

Get Free Summaries →

Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.

Listen to This Episode

Get summaries like this every morning.

Free AI-powered recaps of Living the Tao-A Spiritual Podcast and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.

Get Free Summaries →

Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.