hello all,
I was wondering if any of the folks on the list interested in
qigong-science study applied respiratory physiology in their effort
to understand the Art.
Something I have found productive as an investigative method ...
Pick out a specific effect of qi cultivation... say longevity of
practioners. (in a scientific sense all we have is "anecdotal
evidence" of this..but hey!).
Assume this is true..i.e. Qi cultivation, properly practiced, leads
to longevity and vigor in one's elder years.
How might this effect be explained in strictly scientific terms...
A look at the various biomarkers of aging is interesting here...
An aging biomarker is a key trait that experiences a change (of
negative desirability!) over the course of one's lifespan.
Classic examples used by the biogerontologists include..
1. Balance (usually one legged)
2. Reaction time
3. Grip strength
4. Skin elasticity and dermal turgour
5. Circulation
Serious Qi arts practioners may find the notion of "proving" qi
arts have an effect on these traits to be so obvious it's silly.
Perhaps two of the most interesting biomarkers are one's which are
prized by the biogerontologists because..
1. They show a relatively reliable predictive ability regarding
mortality rates in target populations...
2. They are apparently unconnected to other metamarker-traits
effecting the aging process ..the so-called "metamarkers" which
influence many other biomarkers in a sort of cascade reaction...
namely diet and physical fitness. (For instance both diet and
fitness affect blood pressure and incidence of hypertension..obvious
mortality risks).
The two big favorite biomarkers are vital capacity and breath-
holding time. Both of these are flags for general pulmonary health
and capacity. Both of these are western ways to say Qi to my way of
thinking. (Granted we see Qi as far more than "wind"..but that IS
one of it's aspects no?)
Depress any biomarker, keep it from disintegrating..and you wind
up being "effectively" younger than your calender age.

just a few thoughts...any one else care to comment?
Brian Phillips