Integrating "Step-by-Step" the Foundation and Practical Application of Integrative Chi Kung For Instructor Certification. Miguel F.

Transcription

1 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG Integrating "Step-by-Step" the Foundation and Practical Application of Integrative Chi Kung For Instructor Certification Miguel F. Sarria EDUCATING FOR A NEW DAWN

2 Copyright 2002 All rights reserved. All parts of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy or recording without the written permission of the author as long as you clearly disclose the source. The author encourages you to reproduce this publication or parts of it for educational purposes as long as you clearly disclose the source. First Edition Integrative Chi Kung Miguel F. Sarria Version: Educating For A New Dawn Publications TM Edited by Beth Enson Taos, New Mexico DISCLAIMER The information in this book is given strictly for educational and research purposes. The author and publisher do not prescribe or recommend, and assume no responsibility. In no way should this information be consider a substitute for competent health care by the professional of your choice. In the event you use this information without your doctor s approval, you are prescribing for yourself, which is your constitutional right. This information may contain copyrighted material, the use of which has not specifically been authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in an effort to advance the understanding of political, scientific, and religious issues. We believe this constitutes a "fair use" of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for nonprofit educational and research purposes. For more information on fair use, please go to: The smoothie recipe guide is for informational purposes only, and is educational in nature. Statements made here have not been evaluated by the FDA. Nothing stated on this book is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

3 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG Miguel F. Sarria Table of Contents DEDICATION... 3 ACKNOWLEGEMENT... 4 THEORY & GUIDELINES... 5 THE TRAINING... 9 UNDERSTANDING THE CONCEPT OF CHI INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG PRACTICE INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG POSTURES AND FORMS HOW DOES INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG WORK? THEORY OF CARBON DIOXIDE AND CARBON MONOXIDE Carbon dioxide (CO2) Carbon monoxide (CO) ACTIVATE SYNOVIUM, SINEW & HYALURONIC ACID ACTIVATE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM DETOXIFIES THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM FUSION OF FIRE AND WATER Archetype for Fire: The Wizard Archetype for Water: The Philosopher THREE KEY ROOT ORGAN NETWORKS The Function of the Heart The Function of the Lungs The Function of the Kidneys INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG PROGRESSION WARM-UP EXERCISES POSTURAL TRAINING PROPER INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG STRUCTURAL POSTURE THE NATURAL BREATHING METHOD ABDOMINAL BREATHING METHOD (60%) THORACIC BREATHING METHOD (38%) CLAVICLE BREATHING METHOD (2%) Clavicle Breathing Form INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG BREATH METHOD Healing Benefits

4 Immune System Response BALANCE BREATH EXERCISE BREATH RATIO 6:3: Basic Guidelines Three-Part Breath Procedure TUMMO BREATH METHOD Procedure Rootlock (Mula Bandha) Neck Lock (Jalandhara Bhanda) INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG FORMS HARMONIZING THE BREATH FORM 1 SELF-CLEANSING EXERCISE, TWO BREATHS PER CYCLE FORM 2 SELF-CLEANSING WITH ONE BREATH PER CYCLE FORM 3 CONNECTING HEAVEN & EARTH Connecting to Heaven Hands rise in front Connecting to Earth Hands rise by the sides of the body FORM 4 EXPAND AND CONTRACT THE SPINE Contract and Expand the Spine Expand & Contract the Spine FORM 5 MERIDIAN ENERGY FLOW FORM 6 MERIDIAN CHI FLOW OPENING THE HEART FORM 7 REACHING AND CONTROLLING EXTERNAL HEART ENERGY FORM 8 TONIFICATION AND REGULATION OF THE KIDNEY FORM 9 TONIFICATION AND REGULATION OF THE HEART CLOSING PROCEDURE CLOSING INVOCATION Three Breaths with Visualization One Long Breathe with Sat Naam

5 DEDICATION I dedicate this book to all teachers who, through their dedication, responsible research, and integration of their knowledge, have become the guides and cause of humanity s evolution. But primarily, I dedicate this book to you, the student, who in your quest for a fuller life of health and happiness, have had the courage to find in Integrative Chi Kung a tool for evolution. With your responsible and detailed practice, you are the bearer of ancient knowledge and the messenger of universal awareness. The student bears great responsibility, since this knowledge cannot be transmitted only in written form. It is necessary to practice consistently and conscientiously, and apply this knowledge to every action and decision we make in our daily life. The fate of our humanity depends on you. Be strong; never bow down to ignorance. Wisdom is carried inside. Listen to your intuition without hesitation. 3

6 ACKNOWLEGEMENT First of all, I thank all past masters who had the vision to keep alive the ancient knowledge contained in Integrative Chi Kung. They are responsible for the transmission of this discipline by word-of-mouth, and by their practice of this valuable knowledge through the centuries. I thank my children, my friends and my students who over the years have taught me generosity, ethics, patience, perseverance, concentration, and wisdom. My gratitude to you! 4

7 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG THEORY & GUIDELINES Integrative Chi Kung (Qigong) is the comprehensive integration of ancient energy management techniques dating to over 5,000 years with current science. Combining ancient intuition and new knowledge creates a solid foundation for a healing art to take us into the future in health, abundance and joy. It compiles effective preventive, healing, and strengthening exercises derived from a long history of the Chinese people s experience as they observed the struggle of nature. Ancient masters came to the understanding that everything is composed of the same energetic substance which vibrated in different frequencies, which they called Chi (Qi). Traditional Chinese Medicine is primarily based on the understanding of the transformation of Chi throughout the human body. Today quantum physics proposes that all matter is composed of energy that is constantly vibrating at different frequencies. Underlying all of this motion is a ubiquitous force (having the ability to be everywhere at once) that quantum physics has called zero point energy (ZPE) 1 energy mostly undetected by some of our human senses but present in all things and space. In addition, quantum physics posits that the fabric of the universe is composed of "void" containing potential or latent energy. For instance, in a single hydrogen atom, whose volume is approximately cubic centimeters, the void contains a trillion times more latent-energy than the sum of all of the matter known in stars and planets out to 20 billion light-years. As the observer 2, our consciousness allows us to control this latent energy. 3 To put matter versus void into perspective, Scott M. Tyson tells us in his book The Unobservable Universe, " empty space (void) represents the single largest component of our universe... Even supposedly "solid" matter contains less than one part of matter by volume for every 500 trillion parts of empty space." Latent energy is what changes our reality from concrete determinism to consciousness itself. If reality is "concrete" then we are insignificant subjects of destiny. But if reality is "possibility or latent energy", then we immediately encounter the question, "How can I change and create reality to extend the image of myself?" It allows us to have the actual 1 Gribbin, John (1998). Q is for Quantum - An Encyclopedia of Particle Physics 2 A transcendental state of awareness and subjective connection with the universe 3 What the bleep do we know - Down the rabbit hole, William Tiller, Ph.D.; Joseph Dispenza, D.C 5

8 experience as observer/creators. We choose the experience and literally create our own reality. 2 As latent energy collapses into our observable universe, photons manifest faster than the speed of light. In fact, it happens much, much, much faster than the speed of light, with best estimates suggesting 10,000 times the speed of light. Considering Einstein's relativity and Hendrik Lorentz transformation, space warps at the speed of light approximating time value to zero(0). At the speed of light and beyond, both space and time become undefined and cease to exist. From the perspective of a photon, there is no time and space. 4 In the human body energy is expressed in the form of biophotons (weak emissions of light radiated from the cells, and smaller than the atom) embodying potential Life Force Quantum Vital-Energy. Using intention through the observer we are capable to unlock the latent energy within our own cells to create reality. Although the existence of this underlying force has been intuited since ancient times, science has recently measured and scientifically proven its existence. Currently scientists are beginning to understand that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) acts as a conduit for this all-pervasive energy field. It has been proven that DNA acts as a superconductor, transporting electrons down the length of its double helix. Furthermore, recent research has shown that DNA is affected by energy fields generated by the human body itself. Evidence of the influence of a human being s electromagnetic field is found in scientific studies showing that energy emitted by human hands can directly affect wound healing, tissue growth, and protein formation. 5 DNA emits energy in the form of biophotons, which have been measured and scientifically documented. Based on this data, it has been postulated that DNA s base pairs, and their specific positions and shapes, act as antennae for specific electromagnetic frequencies, determining what proteins or enzymes are produced. These emitted biophotons may actually be the energetic blueprint that directs the physical machinery of DNA to accomplish its task within our approximately x 37.2 (trillion) cells in each individual. The word Chi Kung is made up of two Chinese words. Chi is pronounced Chee and is usually translated to mean the Life Force or Quantum Vital-Energy that flows through all things in the universe. The second word Kung means skill that is cultivated through steady practice mastering. Together, Chi Kung means cultivating or mastering human quantum vital-energy; it is a system practiced for health maintenance, healing, manifesting and 4 The Unobservable Universe, Scott M. Tyson p Breaking the Aging Code: Maximizing Your DNA Function for Optimal Health and Longevity, by Vincent C. Giampapa & Miryam Ehrlich Williamson, p.128 6

9 increasing life vitality the skillful practice of channeling Life Force Quantum Vital- Energy. This subtle energy is linked directly to the core of the body as well as directly connected with the energy of our planet and the universe. There is no separation between ourselves and the environment; it is an energy continuum. Experience shows that subtle energy is not limited by matter, time, or space, as we may currently understand it. There are three major energy density-levels and their transmutations related to the three(3) Dantians or major corporal cavities involved in mastering Chi Kung. These three level of energy density, called Dantian (Dan=medicine, Tian=field,) are known as Lower Dantian, Middle Dantian, and Upper Dantian. Lower below the diaphragm; containing denser energy called Jing, which generates the physical protective aura (protective Chi) called first level Wei Chi, related to the immune system. Protective Chi is considered the most vigorous and dense type of energy in the body. In daytime it is mainly distributed in the skin and muscles, warming and nourishing all the outer (subcutaneous) tissues. There it circulates, opening and closing the pores and sweat glands and defending the body against outside disease factors such as extremes of climate and the assaults of microorganisms. At night, protective Chi circulates deeper, within the organs of the body. According to traditional teachings, it is derived from essential substances in food and in inhaled air. This ancient model of protective Chi coincides with our modern concept of the immune system, since both maintain the ability to absorb nutrients and oxygen critical to the immune function. The Lower Dantian acts as a reservoir for heat and energy and is associated with the Kidneys as the primary organ. The Kidneys control the Water element in the body, and in alchemical terms, Jing is said to be analogous to the water in the cauldron. Through focused concentration and meditation, the Jing (essence) in the Lower Dantian is refined and transmuted to produce Chi energy. When sufficient heat is generated in the Lower Dantian as a result of the Heart and Mingmen fire mixing with the Kidney water, the 7

10 alchemical transmutation of Jing in the Lower Dantian area causes the water of the Jing to turn into the steam of Chi. 6 Through focused concentration and meditation, the Jing (essence) in the Lower Dantian can be more efficiently and effectively refined and transmuted to create Chi. Middle between the diaphragm and the throat; containing less-dense energy called Chi, having the Heart as the primary organ and also considered to be a Sea of Chi. The Middle Dantian is connected to the second level of Wei Chi, circulating from one inch around the body to roughly one-and-a-half feet outside the body. It interacts with external energy connections to people, animals, plants, inanimate objects, the Earth, the Sun, Stars and the Universe. It relates to the subconscious emotions, balancing the rational and intuitive mind to work together in coherence. It provides mental agility and clarity, balance and a sense of correctness homeostasis, internal stability, or a state of equilibrium. It gives us the opportunity to feel self-accepting, safe, and have a sense of personal power. Through the process of refining Chi, the mind and spirit are developed and purified. The Middle Dantian is the main focal point for the refinement of Chi into spirit (Shen). In it, our ancestral imprinting or genetic ancestral programming, passed down from many generations through the subconscious, can be transformed. The Middle Dantian is said to house the Shen, and control all of the functions of Shen that are attributed to the Yin organs. Thus, the Heart is often referred to as the "Heavenly Emperor." The redeeming virtue of the Heart is a sense of propriety and discriminating awareness. It controls the smooth flow of Chi throughout the body and is nourished by the Five Virtues of kindness, order, trust, integrity, and wisdom. These Five Virtues give peace and clarity to the Heart. 5 The Middle Dantian promotes the transmutation of Chi energy into Shen energy, and into the Upper Dantian. Upper the head cavity; containing subtle energy of Heaven called Shen and representing the spiritual aspect of man and his connection to the divine. It connects to the third field of Wei Chi, circulating several feet outside the body. As the Upper Dantian fills with "spiritual Chi" or Shen, spiritual intuition and psychic perception increase. This is where psychic perceptions and intuitive awareness take place: higher communications, experiences of intense bliss, and perceptions that transcend time and space. The Upper Dantian is the place where the Eternal Soul connects with the Wuji and with the Dao original life source. The awareness associated with this union is beyond 6 Chinese Medical Qigong Therapy - Energetic Alchemy; Dao Yin Therapy and Chi Deviations by Professor Jerry Alan Johnson Ph.D., D.T.C.M., D.M.Q. (China) 8

11 description, as this level of unity surpasses conceptual thought and words. 5 Managing the Shen of the Upper Dantian with clear intention, without interruption of the mind, is the only way to access and manage the latent energy possessed in the empty space or the void. The void is the source of what has not yet become all possibility or latent energy. In the Tao Te Ching, its author Lao-Tzu confirms the limitations of human communication and understanding in his first passage: The Dao that can be told is not the eternal Dao. The name that can be named is not the eternal name. The nameless is the beginning of heaven and Earth. The named is the mother of the ten thousand things. Ever desireless, one can see the mystery. Ever desiring, one sees the manifestations. These two spring from the same source but differ in name; this appears as darkness. Darkness within darkness. The gate to all mystery. 7 Practitioners of Integrative Chi Kung regard these methods as the practice of internal alchemy by strengthening oneself enough to cultivate and transform Jing (essence or matter) into Chi (life force quantum vital-energy) and then into Shen (mind, consciousness, spirit, divinity) in a constant flow. THE TRAINING Basic training (Jing-Kung) is primarily more physical than the other levels and it requires the practitioner to condition the body by coordinating the mind and breathe with movement. The Lower Dantian is activated and strengthened first. Jing is the essence of life, the fundamental material that makes up the human body, the material foundation of life. Jing can be thought of as a denser Chi located basically in the Lower Dantian. The human body is born with innate-jing (original) inherited from our ancestors as foundation for acquiredjing which, in turn, transforms to a higher vibration energy, Chi. As we make choices in life we develop acquired-jing resulting from food, water, fire and air converted by the stomach and spleen, and stored in the kidneys along with the innate-jing. This is why vitality and Chi are affected by what we eat, breathe and more everything you bring in to yourself and your energy field, you become. 7 Translation by Gia Fu Feng & Jane English 9

12 Jing energy can be also be enhanced through a more physical, diligent training like Tai Chi or Martial Arts. This reinforces the physical human structure and the internal sinew, a white material connecting muscles with bones and supporting internal organs. Jing represents something forceful, like bamboo, inside the body. The Sinew represents our movement towards, or away from, the world. It is most commonly connoted as "defensive" Chi, but it can be thought of as "proactive" Chi just as appropriately. We achieve this through our upright posture. We first need to stand up; this allows us to move out into the world. Then we can reach out to the world and make contact. We then bring this experience back to our own domain. Inte rmediate training (Chi-Kung) includes mentally and kinesthetically 8 visualizing energy (Chi) circulating in the center, back and front meridians (like the Du Mai and Ren Mai extraordinary vessels). The organ network axis coordinates each Chi progression with slow, unlabored, rhythmic breathing while maintaining minimal soft tissue tension. This is not just a mental but also a physical process of extending awareness. From the eight extraordinary vessels, two of the most important ones are the Governing and Conception Vessels: Du Mai and the Ren Mai. The Du Mai (Governing Vessel GV) meridian runs up the back of the body, from the perineum over the head to the upper lip. It is often referred to as the "sea of yang" meridians, because the three yang meridians of the hand (large intestine, triple burner, small intestine) and foot (stomach, gall bladder, urinary bladder) converge into the Du meridian at GV 14, located below the spinous process of the 7 th cervical vertebrae, approximately at the level of the shoulders. The spinous process of a vertebra is directed backward and downward from the junction of the laminae (in humans this is the part of the neural arch of a vertebra extending from the pedicle to the median line) and serves for the attachment of muscles and ligaments. The Du Mai meridian functions as a governor to all the yang meridians, regulating the circulation of Chi and blood in them. It also regulates the functional activities of the brain and the spine marrow, and regulates the function of the urinary and reproductive systems. 8 Detecting bodily position, weight, or movement of the muscles, tendons, and joints 10

13 The Ren Mai (Conception Vessel CV) meridian runs up the front of the body, from the perineum to the lower lip. This meridian dominates the yin of the whole body. It is also known as the "sea of yin" meridian. The three yin meridians of the hand (lung, pericardium, heart) and of the foot (spleen, liver, kidney), all join at CV 3, located in the pubic region, on the anterior midline. This meridian originates in the uterus and is especially connected with conception hence its name of Conception Vessel. 11

14 Its function is to regulate the circulation of blood and Chi in the yin meridians. It regulates the menstrual flow, dominates the reproductive system and the fetus, regulates the Chi circulation of the chest, promotes the function of spleen and stomach, and generally strengthens the body. Intermediate training in Integrative Chi Kung is completed when the practitioner is able to qualitatively "feel the Chi" point-to-point around the meridians and the organ network axis and has reached a point of qualitative increased physical vitality and awareness. Chi flow is activated until enough energy is generated to "emit" Chi through the chakra located on the palm of the hands. Developing Chi flow is the only path to progressing into Shen-Kung Advanced Training. It is undertaken when the practitioner achieves a consistent state of higher-level physical, emotional and mental energy flow as well as transcendent awareness. Advanced training (Shen-Kung) uses intention, intuition and higher clairvoyance to achieve the goal of commanding Life Force Quantum Vital-Energy to heal oneself and others. Shen loosely translates as spirit and is closely related to the function of the heart. Shen can be thought of as less dense or a more subtle Chi. Shen is derived from innate-jing, and relies on acquired-jing and Chi for nourishment to maintain its function. Shen is connected to the Heart chakra and the Spiritual Cord. The Spiritual Cord connects the upper chakras through the Crown chakra with the 12th chakra above the head and the universal Source. It is what the Tibetans call "the incarnated Buddha Nature". The three permanent seeds, manifested as physical, energy and astral bodies are infused with the essence of the Buddha Nature. As a sponge in a bathtub contains water inside and outside its body, the three permanent seeds are all inside the incarnated Buddha Nature. Therefore, it would be more accurate to define a person as a Buddha Nature with a physical body, rather than a physical body with a Buddha Nature. "We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience." ~ Pierre Teilhard de Chardin With abundant Shen the body is strong and the human system functions harmoniously in coherence with the universe. Shen is supported by the meng main or mingmen ("Door of Life or Destiny"), which is the key to manifesting our destiny. The meng main is physically located around the level between the 2 nd and 3 rd lumbar vertebrae, in between the two kidneys in a slight angle opposite to the navel. 12

15 The Shen-Kung practitioner, while in a transcendental state of awareness and subjective connection with the universe (observer state), simply connects and non-verbally communicates specific corrective directives to the target in someone s four bodies: physical, emotional, mental, spiritual. For example, rather than using the hand to emit Chi over a sprained ankle to disperse stagnant Chi and blood, the practitioner will directly connect with the ankle to communicate directives or commands (Preferred Result Directives PRD) to achieve the desired effect. Both Tibetan and Shamanic Mayan tradition use four basic elements plus one. They are expressed in the fingers of the hand as: space, wind, fire, water and earth. (See hand chart) Space can be identified with spirit (Shen), and it requires that the practitioner masters management of, and evolves his/her awareness of, the other four elements. Moving his/her awareness from the physical, emotional and mental bodies upward and beyond, allows the practitioner to become the observer of his/her own events. This transcendental state allows the elements that form us to clearly manifest. Mastering Shen (Shen-Kung) is the key to tapping into the latent energy of empty space or the void. Shen is subtle energy expressed as biophotons traveling at approximately 10,000 times the speed of light; therefore they are not subject to the limiting constraints of time and space. In this state of existence, Shen is able to move between material reality and the void, opening a conduit from where the void s latent energy manifests. Shen-Kung practitioners are able to interact with any person, at any distance, instantly, to perform energy therapy. Connected to the infinite source of energy from the void, the practitioner is able to perform therapy without ever depleting or contaminating his/her own energy. This most profound practice will be explained step-by-step in my next book on Integrative Shen Kung. UNDERSTANDING THE CONCEPT OF CHI "That which animates life is called Chi." The concept of Chi is the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Life is defined by Chi, immaterial yet essential; the material world is formed by it. An invisible force known only by its effects, Chi is recognized indirectly by what it fosters, generates, and protects in our case, life. Matter is Chi taking shape. Mountains forming, forests growing, rivers streaming, and creatures proliferating are all manifestations of Chi. In the human being all functions of the body, emotions, mind and spirit are manifestations of Chi: sensing, pondering, feeling, digesting, stirring, and propagating. Chi produces movement and heat. It is the fundamental mystery and miracle. 13

16 Life cannot be separated from the way it manifests. When the heart beats and the breath is warm, it is understood that life exists within the body. Like steam, Chi has its own movement and also activates the movement of things other than itself. Just as the wind moves the trees, grasses, and water, so Chi moves the chest, causing inhalation and exhalation. People do not inhale Chi; rather, Chi is the motive force that establishes respiration. In this way, Chi is the cause and also the effect. The essence of food is also a form of Chi. This highly refined essence is the source from which the material form of the body is constructed. Air Chi represents the immaterial motivating aspect of Chi and Food Chi the material or constructing aspect. Chi is both the foundation of structure and the catalyst of transformation and movement. INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG PRACTICE Through the study and practice of Integrative Chi Kung one can cultivate an awareness of Chi and its individual pathways, learning to influence and control, in a conscientious and focused manner, its energy and power. Integrative Chi Kung practitioners use these skills to alter energy flow and transmutation, creating an environment where the body can reestablish coherence and heal itself. Understanding the relationship of the two major elements of water (mother) and fire (father) is one of the most effective ways to manipulate Chi, creating vital energy balance in the body. These elements are primordial components of the art of Integrative Chi Kung. Fire and Water are two components represented graphically as two opposing triangles in Hellenic Physics. The element of Fire is masculine energy, warm and dry, active, incredibly energetic. Its corresponding direction is South. It has the power to destroy and purify. It is seen as the beginning and end as it is considered the source of life and the destroyer of life. Fire is the Wizard. The element of water is feminine energy, cool and moist, passive, creative, transformative. It is embodied esoterically as the primal waters of all creation. Its 14

17 corresponding direction is West. It represents the subconscious, receptivity, and regeneration. Water is the Philosopher. The combination and management of these two elements is vital in the creation of life as we know it, accompanied by the elements of Earth and Air, ignited by the spark of Spirit or Shen, manifesting human life, Buddha Nature or Quantum bioenergy. The goal of Integrative Chi Kung is to manage bio-energetic conditions, imbalances and blockages in the body that accumulate throughout our lifetime. These imbalances derive from poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, injuries, surgery, toxic influences, suppression of emotions and non-healthy aging. Integrative Chi Kung therapy and Integrative Chi Kung self-treatment both enable the body to return to its natural state of health and harmony, relieving pain and stress and regulating hormones. Deep-seated emotions, which are considered a major root cause of illness, may be purged and released. This strengthens the body and regulates the internal organs, the nervous and the immune systems. As a preventive healthcare system, Integrative Chi Kung may be utilized as part of a regular regime to protect the practitioner from both acute diseases as well as chronic degenerative conditions by strengthening immunity and resistance, regulating vital functions, enhancing vitality and keeping the human energy system in perfect coherence and balance. After several centuries of working to conquer disease with chemicals, drugs, radiation, radical surgery and other technological solutions, and attempting to prevent disease with vaccinations, synthetic additives to fortify food, and all-out chemical warfare against germs, medical science is beginning to realize that the best offense is a good defense and that the best defense is the maintenance of a strong, well-balanced coherent energy system. 15

18 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG POSTURES AND FORMS The Dao Yin Tu painting, dating from BC, found by Chinese archeologists at the Ma-Wang-Dui Tombs in Changsha of Central China's Hunan Province, illustrates over 44 Integrative Chi Kung postures. Over half of the illustrated postures are animal movements. Movement connected to breath stimulates and increases the flow of the body's Chi and blood. In the classic text "Spring and Autumn Annals", it is written that "flowing water never stagnates, and the hinges of an active door never rust." Medical Integrative Chi Kung doctors/healers prescribe physical therapy, exercise, and meditations/purification as part of the overall treatment strategy to counter a sedentary, stressed or unhealthy lifestyle. The three main rules for treatment with medical Integrative Chi Kung exercise prescriptions are: 1. Purge (70%) the excess (stagnant Chi) from organs and organ systems, and clear chakras with color visualization, by using the mind's intention to focus on moving Chi out from an affected organ and chakras in a downward direction from head to toes. 2. Tonify (30%) the Chi-deficient organs, organ systems, and chakras with color visualization by using the mind's intention to focus on moving Chi to the area, thus strengthening and illuminating deficient tissues. If in doubt, only purge and do not tonify. 3. Regulate and balance the body's yin and yang organs by using the mind's intention to balance the energetic fields by moving the Chi up and down, right and left, and inside and outside the tissues. Integrative Chi Kung exercise prescriptions are designed to disperse Chi and blood stagnation, to nourish the internal organs and organ systems, to exercise the muscles and sinews, and to enhance production of Hyaluronic Acid 9 and the function of the autonomic nervous system. By stimulating the patient's Organ Network Axis of Chi flow 10, the 9 Hyaluronic acid (also called Hyaluronan) is a component of connective tissue whose function is to cushion and lubricate. Hyaluronan occurs throughout the body in abundant amounts in connective tissue such as joints, heart, valves and eyes. 10 The Foundation of Chinese Medicine, Giovanni Maciocia 16

19 exercises eliminate fatigue and stress as normal body functions are restored. Another important therapeutic effect is immune enhancement by increasing cellular energy and circulating lymph. There are seven stages of healing awareness in Integrative Chi Kung self-regulation therapy. These are transitions achieved through practice. The patient learns to: 1. Increase awareness of the four bodies and their current conditions. 2. Awareness of the breath and to follow the breath. 3. Breathe profoundly, dividing the breath into three stages following the Triple Burner: Abdomen (68%), thoracic (30%) and clavicle (2%). 4. Cleanse and purify the body's energetic fields, ridding the body of Chi stagnation and toxic pathogenic factors. 5. Strengthen the channels or meridians by moving Chi with fresh energy from the connection of Heaven (fire-heart-yang) to Earth (water-kidneys-yin) through the spiritual cord or Taiji Pole Circulate the Chi internally and externally, moving any stagnant Chi and strengthening the body. 7. Dissipate any excess Chi from the body. The exercises reinforce treatments performed by the Integrative Chi Kung doctor/healer, acupuncturist, or other health provider, prevents the patient's energy from reverting back to old destructive patterns. The Integrative Chi Kung doctor/healer selects the proper exercise prescription(s) to fit the patient's illness. The patient is dissuaded from practicing at random, in order to avoid pathological changes or Chi deviations that can arise from improper practice, such as Kundalini syndrome. 11 Taiji Pole is the main energy conduit in the body connecting each individual human being to the universal source. It is the inner core of the energy body, cylindrical in shape, runs the length of the head and trunk of the body, responsible for absorbing the energy from the environment and distributing them to the Dantians. It allows the physical incarnation of consciousness to take place. 17

20 HOW DOES INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG WORK? Human life is based on cell reproduction, in which the cell divides itself into two identical cells. Health is the result of a balanced alignment of energy fueling the process of mitosis. Mitosis is the division of the mother cell into two daughter cells, genetically identical to each other and to their parent cell. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a key factor in this process. Mitosis is essential to the maintenance of the chromosomal set; each cell formed receives chromosomes that are alike in composition and equal in number to the chromosomes of the parent cell. Transcription is generally believed to cease during mitosis, but epigenetic mechanisms such as bookmarking function during this stage of the cell cycle, ensuring that the "memory" of which genes were active prior to entry into mitosis is transmitted to the daughter cells. 12 For cell mitosis to occur, cellular respiration is vital. Cellular respiration is the process of oxidizing biochemical energy from nutrients, like glucose, to make a molecule called ATP (adenosine triphosphate), and releasing the by-products carbon dioxide and water. ATP is a nucleotide that performs many essential roles in the cell. It is the major energy currency of the cell, providing the energy for most of the energy-consuming activities of the cell. It is one of the monomers (molecule of any of a class of compounds, mostly organic, that can react with other molecules of the same or other compounds to form very large molecules, or polymers) used in the synthesis of RNA 13 (Ribonucleic acid) and, after conversion to deoxyatp (datp), DNA. 12 Draviam V, Xie S, Sorger P (2004). Chromosome segregation and genomic stability. Curr Opin Genet Dev 14 (2): RNA, is one of the three major macromolecules (along with DNA and proteins) that are essential for all known forms of life. 18

21 It regulates multiple biochemical pathways. Aerobic cellular respiration requires the use of oxygen. To stay healthy and ensure that our cells have a steady supply of ATP, we must effectively provide a constant level of oxygen to the body. Integrative Chi Kung provides an optimal methodology for breathing. Using full capacity of our abdomen, chest and clavicle breathing method, the intake of oxygen is maximized, as well as the output of carbon dioxide. In addition, the alignment of energy flow within the body produced by Integrative Chi Kung optimizes the relationship of external and internal energy, supporting the cell in its creation of ATP. Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on this principle. Science has provided ample proof of how magnetic fields influence mitosis of the cell. Rapley BI, Rowland RE, Page WH, and Podd JV., from the Department of Production Technology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand, found: 14 Vicia faba seedlings were subjected to one of the following magnetic fields continuously for 3 days: 0 Hz (DC) at 5 mt, 50 Hz at 1.5 mt, 60 Hz at 1.5 mt, and 75 Hz at 1.5 mt. The lengths of all the phases of mitosis differed from the controls in all treatments using alternating magnetic fields and for prophase and metaphase in the DC condition. In particular, all treatments increased the length of prophase significantly in meristematic root-tip cells compared with the controls. The implications of these results for chromosome coiling are discussed. The length of prophase, however, did not vary significantly between any of the treatments. Furthermore, none of the exposed seedlings had a greater frequency of chromosome breakages above that of the control plants. On the macro side of life, the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics reported: 15 Magnetic Fields Play Larger Role in Star Formation than Previously Thought. The simple picture of star formation calls for giant clouds of gas and dust to collapse inward due to gravity, growing denser and hotter until igniting nuclear fusion. In reality, forces other than gravity also influence the birth of stars. New research shows that cosmic magnetic fields play a more important role in star formation than previously thought. 14 Rapley BI, Rowland RE, Page WH, Podd JV., Department of Production Technology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand 15 Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Release No.: , Wednesday, September 09,

22 Integrative Chi Kung aligns the body with the earth s magnetic field and the universe, thus inducing energy coherence and health. Understanding the polarity of energy within the human body, and its relationship to the polarity of the energy of the Earth and the Heavens, allows for the practice of Integrative Chi Kung to align the human body to maximize energy potential. In an optimal state of alignment, mitosis and apoptosis becomes more efficient. Mitosis is essential to replace damaged or dead cells. Mitosis takes place constantly in the epidermis of the skin, the stomach lining, and the red bone marrow. However, mitosis requires energy for cell division, from cell respiration. Cell respiration is an energy production process within cells. It releases energy from food to produce ATP, and also produces heat as one of its energy products. Cell respiration takes place constantly. Cell respiration can be represented by the following chemical formula: Glucose + O2 > H2O + CO2(carbon dioxide) +ATP + heat 1. The water produced by cell respiration, called "metabolic water", helps to meet our daily need for water. 2. The carbon dioxide formed is circulated to the lungs to be exhaled. 3. Energy in the form of heat helps maintain body temperature. 4. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) coenzyme is formed and used for energyrequiring reactions; the excess of energy is converted to muscle mass, increasing our strength. This reaction shows that glucose and oxygen combine yield carbon dioxide, water, ATP and heat. Glucose is derived from the food we eat, which requires oxygen for its breakdown. The oxygen required comes from breathing. If we don't breathe properly, there may not be enough oxygen for constant cell respiration. Then, there will not be enough heat and ATP generated by the cells to keep our body functioning. Furthermore, damaged cells will not be able to be repaired or replaced quickly enough for us to stay alive and healthy. THEORY OF CARBON DIOXIDE AND CARBON MONOXIDE Carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) are sometimes confused. They are quite different in their effects on humans. 20

23 Carbon dioxide (CO2) Is a colorless, tasteless, odorless, noncombustible gas that is soluble in water. CO2 is one and one half times as heavy as air. We exhale CO2 with every breath. Green plants convert carbon dioxide back to oxygen and other components. It is commonly used to carbonate beverages and in the manufacturing of 'dry' ice and fire extinguishers. Carbon monoxide (CO) Is a non-irritating, colorless, tasteless, odorless gas only partially soluble in water. It is a flammable gas that is somewhat lighter than air. Carbon monoxide is a waste product of incomplete combustion of coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas, fuel oil, kerosene, gasoline, fabrics and plastics. It is the leading cause of poisoning deaths in the United States. Carbon monoxide interferes with the blood's ability to carry oxygen. It combines with the hemoglobin of blood 250 times better than oxygen does, thus denying body tissues a sufficient supply of oxygen. Carbon monoxide binds very strongly to the iron in the hemoglobin in the blood. Once carbon monoxide attaches, it is very difficult to release. So if you breathe in carbon monoxide, it sticks to your hemoglobin and takes up all of the oxygen-binding sites. Your blood loses all of its ability to transport oxygen, and you suffocate. Because carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin so strongly, you can be poisoned by carbon monoxide even at very low concentrations if you are exposed for a long period of time. Concentrations as low as 20 or 30 parts per million (PPM) can be harmful if you are exposed for several hours. Exposure at 2,000 PPM for one hour will cause unconsciousness. ACTIVATE SYNOVIUM, SINEW & HYALURONIC ACID Synovium is the name given to the soft tissue lining the cavities of joints, tendon sheaths and bursa. The synovial membrane, together with the cells of its inner lining, the intima, provides something like an inner tube, sealing the synovial fluid from the surrounding tissue, effectively stopping the joints being squeezed dry when subject to impact. It is like other connective tissue packing, being a mixture of fatty, areolar and fibrous tissue. The synovial membrane secretes synovial fluid into the joint cavity. Synovial fluid is a thick, stringy fluid found in the cavities of synovial joints. Sinew is a powerful connective tissue that bonds our internal organs and muscle to the bone structure. It is the source of vigor and muscular power and a source of Chi energy flow. Both connecting tissues contain high concentration of Hyaluronic Acid. They are the conduits of Wei Chi (superficial part of the immune system) whose purpose is to engage with the world. It is most commonly connoted as "defensive Chi", but it can be thought of as proactive Chi just as appropriately. As humans we activate Wei Chi through our 21

24 upright posture. We first need to stand up, allowing us to move out into the world. Then we can reach out to the world and make contact. We then bring this experience back to our own domain. Our posture, which reflects the state of Wei Chi, is supported by our perception and emotions. Posture can reflect or create the way one conveys oneself through the musculature and structure. The sinews are often related to the functional parts of contractile units, in particular the tendons which are controlled by the Liver and Blood energy. When there is abundance of Blood, the sinews are solid and strong; when there is deficiency of Blood, the sinews are weak. 16 When synovial fluid and sinew are activated, electrical conductivity increases, accelerating the flow of Chi through the body. The reverse is equally true. Electrical stimulation increases the quality and quantity of Hyaluronic Acid in the joints and sinew structure. Integrative Chi Kung exercises are designed to activate the synovial tissue and the sinew increasing the content of Hyaluronic Acid throughout, increasing the flow of Quantum bioenergy (Chi,) and strengthening body structure. According to Classics of Internal Medicine 17, "All diseases are latent in the condition of Chi." If one can keep yin and yang, the two complementary vital properties that permeate the whole body, in harmonious proportion, accordingly nourishing one's blood and vital energy, then one can ward off disease, extend one's years and ensure a long and healthy life free from senile decline. 18 ACTIVATE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM Studies show that our oxygen levels impact very important elements of the immune system. With optimal oxygen levels, lymphocyte and immunoglobulin function are increased. Tissue oxygenation is a critical factor in host defense against bacteria. Gut mucosal tissue oxygenation is protective against bacterial invasion. 19 Lymphocytes in the gut wall produce immunoglobulins. The most important one in the gut is Secretory Immunoglobulin A (IgA). Secretory IgA is a substance which is produced by lymphocytes in all mucous membranes in the body and excreted in body fluids. It is found in breathing passages, nose, throat, bladder, urethra, vagina, saliva, tears, sweat, colostrum, breast milk and, of course, the mucous membranes of the digestive system and its secretions. Its job is to protect mucous membranes by destroying and inactivating invading 16 Musculoskeletal Disorders: Healing Methods from Chinese Medicine... By Alon Marcus 17 The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, by Giovanni Maciocia 2nd edition 18 Series Sinew-Transforming Exercises, Compiled by Chang Weizhen, English Translation by Hong Yunxi, Foreign Languages Press, Beijing, 1991, Paperback, 117 pages, ISBN The effects of varying oxygen conditions and immunoglobulin A on barrier defense to bacterial invasion. Baylor AE, Diebel LN, Liberati DM, Dulchavsky SA, Diglio CA, Brown WJ. Department of Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, University Health Center 6-C, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA. 22

25 bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. It is one of the immune system's ways of dealing with the unwelcome invaders coming with food and drink into our digestive system. Microbiological science has established that when the healthy gut flora is compromised in humans and in laboratory animals the number of cells producing IgA falls dramatically and their ability to produce this important immunoglobulin is severely reduced. This, of course, would greatly lessen the ability of the gut to protect itself. In addition, quite soon after being excreted, the Immunoglobulin A naturally degrades. Apart from stimulating its production, the beneficial bacteria slow down its degradation through a very complex process, allowing the IgA more time to do its work. Lymphocytes are not the only immune cells which should be present in abundance in the digestive wall. When there is a deficiency of beneficial bacteria in the gut, other groups of immune cells, called neutrophils and macrophages cannot do their job properly either. These are the cells which gather in infected and inflamed tissues and clean them up by literally swallowing viruses, toxins and bacterial and cellular debris and destroying them. Approximately 126 billion neutrophils per day leave the blood and pass through the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. In people with abnormal gut flora these cells reduce their ability to tackle antigens; in other words they can't destroy invaders and their toxins efficiently, even when their phagocytic (swallowing) ability may appear to be normal. We don't know yet how it happens. What we do know is that this allows viruses, bacteria and other invaders to survive and persist inside of neutrophils and macrophages the very cells which are supposed to destroy them. 20 DETOXIFIES THE LYM PHATIC SYSTEM The lymph system is the body's drainage system. A network of lymphatic vessels connects and extends to all parts of the body. The lymph vessels convey excess fluid collected from all over the body back into the blood circulation. Harmful organisms are trapped and destroyed by the specialized white blood cells (lymphocytes) that are present in these nodes. Lymphocytes are also added to the lymph that flows out of nodes and back to the bloodstream. The system drains the lymph fluid back into the bloodstream from the body's tissues. This system is a primary means of avoiding and fighting infection in the body. It also protects the body from the development of cancerous cells by filtering out infectious organisms. The lymph system removes excess fluid from the tissues and in between the cells. It also absorbs protein and gives it to the blood. Pathogens, toxins, and cancer cells are all removed by the lymph system. 20 Gut and Psychology Syndrome, Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride MD, MMedSci(neurology), MMedSci(nutrition) 23

26 There are main lymph valves in your arms and legs. There are over 300 lymph nodes in your neck and head area. The lymph nodes are designed to drain toxins before they reach your brain. The liver is packed with lymph vessels too which are activated when you move. Lymph fluid cleanses and transports. Lymph organs include bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus. There is more lymph in the body than blood. You are the pump for your lymph system, no organ will do it for you. Most people with chronic illness have problems with their lymph system. The practice of Integrative Chi Kung, which includes three part breathing, keeps the lymph fluids moving. It stimulates the lymphatic system into action and promote a healthy immune system response. The gentle massage can push up to 78% of stagnant lymph back into circulation. It frees trapped toxins. FUSION OF FIRE AND WATER Fulfilling destiny is the process in which our innate original Chi is reinforced by our acquired Chi to fuel the manifestation of our true self. The point in the body in which these two forces combine is the Meng main and it is directly guided by the Heart chakra with Shen subtle energy. This caldron combines Fire and Water (heaven and earth) in the continual creation of life. FIRE (virtue) is dazzling, transitory, trembling, exciting, and all embracing. The spirit of the fire element is the heart s Shen. Summer, the time when plants and creatures develop to their fullest potential, marks the ascendance of the power of Fire. Summer conjures up a sense of splendor and fulfillment as we stretch to the limits of our capacity. In summer, Yang is dominant: light, warmth, activity, and interactions are at a peak. Fire, like summer, is expansive, radiant, outgoing, and warm. As the sun accelerates the life streams of the earth, the Heart squeezes the living juices of the blood through the vessels, impregnating the body with mindfulness. The key life themes for fire involve transforming attachment to the desires of the imagined self into the ability to surrender to the acknowledgement of our true nature that lies in the inner heart. Archetype for Fire: The Wizard 21 Fusion is the organizing principle for the Wizard, who seeks to permeate the mundane with the extraordinary, merging human aspirations with divine purpose. Just as the Fire of love 21 Between Heaven and Earth, A guide to Chinese Medicine, Harriet Beifield, L.Ac. and Efrem Korngold, L.Ac., OMD 24

27 unites male and female to form new life, so the Wizard wields a miraculous power to overcome separation by welding divergent elements into one. His excitement and enthusiasm generate the heat required for the reaction of fusion to occur. With this tremendous catalytic energy, he brings the transforming power of light, love, and awareness into the world. As we lose touch with our own heart, the capacity for intimacy with self and others dwindles. We revert to serving the habitually reactive mind and ignore the heart s innate wisdom as the path to ruin is created one step at a time. WATER (wisdom) is as subterranean as an underground stream, as dark and fertile as the womb, as enduring as the jade-colored sea. The water element is the worldly manifestation of the first stage in the movement of Tao. Water ascends to fullness in the frost of winter as plants submerge their energy into their roots, animals thicken their hides, and ponds harden into ice. Movement slackens as matter and energy concentrate. This is a time of apparent stillness and inactivity, yet beneath the surface is the hidden activity of gestation and germination that will bring forth renewal in spring. Before seeds and bulbs germinate, they demand a spell of chilly slumber. During this period of hibernation the essence of life persists in its most primitive state. The rhythm of water possesses two beats that define the destiny of each being. This moment of time reflects the conception and death of each thing that comes into existence. The bear huddled in the corner of a darkened cave may be mistaken for dead except for his subtle warmth and slow, shallow breath. During winter he lives from accumulated reserves, resting until aroused by the hunger that swells as spring signals the intense activity of a new cycle. The Kidney abides within us like the bear in its cave, harboring the germ of being, the Essence, that feeds and renews our life force. Archetype for Water: The Philosopher 17 Revelation propels the Philosopher in her relentless quest for truth. She brings to light that which is hidden, uncovering new knowledge, dispelling mystery, eroding ignorance. Scrutinizing life until the meaning and significance of her impressions unite into the germ of understanding, she is like an old-time prospector with a nose for nuggets, sifting through the gravel of notions and beliefs, tireless in her effort to apprehend the nature of reality. Just as the miner digs through tons of ore before unearthing a single gem, the Philosopher searches doggedly for truth, which, like a diamond, is esteemed not only for its radiant sparkle, but for its abiding hardness as a tool to advance civilization. It takes millennia to crystallize the residual mineral essence of fossils into this precious stone. Time is the pick and shovel of the Philosopher, who exhumes the bones of culture that endure. The Philosopher yearns for meaning that transcends the rudderless meandering of human affairs. 25

28 As she offers insight to the world, she relies on her hope that knowledge will be married with wisdom, power with compassion, aware that destiny is the final authority. Able to envision what can be, she is critical of what is by comparison. She discerns the inevitable disparity between apparent and ultimate reality. As the custodian of our memories and dreams, she articulates our aspirations, our ends, but does not define for us the machinery for their realization, our means. The Heart and Kidney are like two ends of a rainbow, distinct and unfathomable, drawing between them the multicolored luminous ribbon of our being, a dimension bounded on one end by Water and on the other by Fire. Fire represents the universal and enveloping space into which we grow and expand. As Water determines our longevity, Fire determines our breath and scope. Water is seed and root, Fire is flower and fruit. THREE KEY ROOT ORGAN NETWORKS The foundation of Chinese medicine understands twelve(12) Organ Meridian channels and eight(8) Extraordinary Vessels all interrelated in the creation of a coherent human life. We will focuses on three root organ networks basic to building a feasible Integrative Chi Kung health practice. Advance Integrative Chi Kung includes the integration of forms that include the eight (8) Extraordinary Vessels expressed physically (Jing) as living animals and as the eight (8) elements (Chi) contained within the Dao. Their interactive combination creates the 64 Hexagrams revealed in the Book of Changes, the "I Ching", traced as far back as 3000 years in written form. The Chinese claim that it was passed down as oral tradition for two thousand years before that. The extraordinary vessel s energetic structures are intertwined with the human body s material structure at its deepest level. They reside within the energetic strata of the human body, and are the formative energies of the body. Their function is vast and dictates the growth of the physical form, much like the blueprint for a building. The form and structure of the body begin and mature together within the biorhythmic patterns of our energetic life. All extraordinary vessels are in some way connected to the Kidney meridian system, which in Chinese Traditional Medicine is considered the root of the physical body. The total system functions like a great tree: the kidneys are the roots, the extraordinary vessels form the trunk, the main meridian systems are the limbs and branches, and the essences are its sap. The vessels ultimate function is to store, circulate, distribute and link all of the tree s life energy. By focusing on the Heart, Lungs and Kidneys, which constituted the key root organ networks of human creation, Integrative Chi Kung forms influence all twelve(12) Organ 26

29 Meridian channels and the eight (8) Extraordinary Vessels. This is the first step to abundance, health and joy. The Function of the Heart Houses the Mind-Spirit or Shen, encompassing the mental and spiritual aspects of a human being, notably the Yin Organs the Ethereal Soul (Hun for the Liver), Corporeal Soul (Po for the Lungs), Intellect (Yi for the Spleen), Will-power (Zhi for the Kidneys) and the Mind-Spirit (Shen for the Heart-Pericardium) Controls blood vessels Controls sweat, one of the body fluids. Blood and body fluids have a common origin. Determines strength and constitution Governs blood Manifests in the complexion Opens into the tongue as flowing energy and as "word". Relates to joy The heart controls blood circulation, and drives blood fluid. Heart energy handles mental activities, including consciousness and thought. The heart also directs speech. Kidneys work together with the heart by harmonic balance. Once the balance is destroyed, palpitation and restlessness will appear. The small intestines are also connected to the heart meridian. They function together when the body is ill. The tongue has a close relationship with the heart as well as being an orifice to the heart. Integrative Chi Kung practice increases efficiency of oxygen supply to the heart, increases the adaptability of the heart's pumping requirements, and reduces or slows down the illnesses associated with the heart. The heart corresponds to the element of Fire and the season of Summer. The Function of the Lungs Govern the Chi and respiration Control diffusing and descending of Chi and body fluids; ensure Defensive Chi, warming the skin and muscle; protecting the body from exterior pathogenic factors Control channels and blood vessels Control nasal mucus Control the skin and space between skin and muscle; intermediate between the organism and the environment; nourish and moisten the skin House the Corporeal Soul (Po) 27

30 Manifest in body hair Open into the nose Regulate all physiological activities Regulate water passages, distributing fluids in the Upper Burner Affected by sadness and grief The lungs govern Chi. By regulating Chi movement, which is necessary for blood circulation to occur; the lungs communicate with (or affect) all blood and blood vessels. The lungs are responsible for the transformation and movement of water in the body. They move water in the same directions as Chi. Normal water circulation, especially that of the urinary bladder, is made possible by the downward drive of Chi from the lungs. They are responsible for supplying the skin and hair with nutrients and superficial resistance to pathogenic influences. The skin and hair are the outermost layer of your body; they are the protective layer. By regulating sweat secretion, the lungs disseminate protective Chi (Wei Chi) to the skin and pores, improving the body's immunity. The lungs are not only responsible for respiration; they are also responsible for maintaining fluid metabolism, blood circulation, the autonomic nervous system and the immune system. The lungs are where Chi exchange and regulation occur. During inhalation, the lungs take in natural air Chi (atmospheric air Chi), propelling it downward where it meets other types of Chi. These different types of Chi combine to produce normal Chi. Most of the energy generated from metabolism is used up during our daily routines, with only a small portion of the energy stored for emergencies. If the storage of energy is not kept up, the balance of yin-yang in the human body can easily be disrupted when the individual is overtired, injured, or attacked by pathogenic influences. Practicing Integrative Chi Kung increases the usage of the lungs and increases oxygen intake, thus increasing Chi flow. Excess Chi will be stored in the Lower Dantian to nourish your innate-chi. When your innate-chi is full, yin-yang will gradually return to a balance flow and illness can be corrected. The Function of the Kidneys Assist the Heart s function of housing the Mind-Spirit (Shen) Circulate Essence all over the body, particularly in the Eight Extraordinary Vessels Control spittle, saliva Control the reception of Chi Control the two lower orifices 28

31 Govern Water and control flow of body fluids in the Lower Burner House the Will-power (Zhi) In charge of hormonal changes Manifest in the hair Open into the ears Produce Marrow, fill up the spinal cord and brain, and control bones Provide Yang-Essence to the Meng main regulating Water and Fire Receive fluids from the Lungs Store Essence and govern birth, growth, reproduction and development Control strength and skill Kidneys rule water, playing an important role in water movement and balance of the whole body. Although respiratory functions mainly depend on the lungs, deep and normal breathing is controlled by the "grasping" function of the kidneys. By grasping Chi, the kidneys enable the "natural air Chi" from the lungs to penetrate deeply during the inhalation process. The Kidneys are very important organs that not only regulate the urinary system but also exercise control over the reproductive, endocrine and nervous systems. They are in charge of growth, development, maturation, reproduction, urinary functions, and store the "essence-of-life" (jing). The kidneys not only have a leading role in maintaining the fluid balance of the body, but are also responsible for the condition of the bone and marrow, activities of the brain, and hearing. Bones are nourished by jing, which is derived from the kidneys. The kidneys are the foundation of one's innate constitution and physiologically relate to one's memory and will. Curing a deficiency starts from the three roots: heart, kidneys and lungs. A deficiency in kidney-jing will affect your growth and the development of your body. A deficiency in kidney-chi will also affect your hearing and cause a shortness of energy. The improper regulation of sexual activities will deplete your jing and cause eventual loss of sexual organ function and frequent urination will occur. If you are deficient in kidney-yin, your vision will deteriorate; and dizziness, ringing in the ears, weight loss, sweating during sleep, and/or nocturnal emission will occur. If you are deficient in kidney-yang, then your life-fire will be deficient. Your vitality of spirit will be low, you'll tire easily. Your limbs may get cold and you may be afraid of cold. There may be pain and coldness in your waist area. Men may not be able to get an erection. Women may feel coldness in their womb. 29

32 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG PROGRESSION The application of function of the three key organ networks, kidney, lungs and heart, is one of the main components of Integrative Chi Kung. The forms are designed to move vital energy throughout the human body, promoting the interconnection of organ networks facilitating the restoration of vital energy coherence, which results in health. Organ networks are naturally designed to interact with each other, creating the human being. When these networks lose their natural vital energy flow and become incoherent, disease manifests. The practice of Integrative Chi Kung enhances organ network coherence, maintaining health. WARM-UP EXERCISES Standing, looking to the east, execute the following body movements in sequence of 7, 9 or 18 cycles to activate the Synovial fluid, the Sinew and the flow of Chi throughout the body: 1. With open eyes rotate the eyes clockwise, then counterclockwise. 2. Rotate the head sideways from left to right, inhaling on the left and exhaling on the right. As we are working the physical body think of the sound Sat when inhaling, and the sound Naam 22 when exhaling. This will quiet the mind turning the radio off. 3. Turn the head Up and Down, inhale when rising and exhale when lowering the chin to the chest. Use the sound Sat-Naam in your mind. If your mind wanders off, come back again and again. 4. Rotate the head over the neck axis clockwise, then counterclockwise. 5. Rotate the arms over the shoulder axis backward first, then forward. 6. Lift the arms in front of your chest, with hands to the sky, open and close vigorously. Rotate palms facing down into the earth, and open and close the hands vigorously. 7. Lift the arms to the sky over the head and open and close the hands vigorously. 8. With arms parallel to the ground and forearms to the sky, turn your body from left to right. Inhale on the left and exhale on the right. Turn your head with motion looking as far as you can. 9. With hands on the waist, rotate the waist first clockwise, then counterclockwise. Do not rotate the head; keep it stationary in the center. 10. With hands on the knees and knees bent, rotate the knees in both directions. 22 Sat-Naam means in Sanskrit Truth is my Identity 30

33 11. Standing with knee bent, on one foot, (leg) and holding your arms parallel to the ground, rotate the ankle of the raised foot and wrists simultaneously. Switch legs and repeat. POSTURAL TRAINING The goal of postural training is to promote Chi circulation, regulation and grounding. It involves learning techniques to guide Chi through movement and changes in the electromagnetic fields of the hands, body and feet. Proper posture and alignment are imperative to ensure the efficacy of Integrative Chi Kung practice. Correct posture regulates the heart and calms the mind. This makes it easier to lead the flow of Chi downward and aids smooth Chi and blood circulation. There is a proper sequence of relaxation for energy circulation. The muscles are relaxed, followed by the tendons and ligaments, then the nerves, and finally the bones. When Chi and blood flow through the channels, the practitioner may experience bodily sensations such as fullness, heat, heaviness, tingling, or vibration. The practitioner may also experience an energetic current or electric surge through the body or extremities. Static postural training involves the cultivation of a quiescent state while lying down, sitting, or standing. It is used to build and strengthen the practitioner's internal Jing (Essence) in the Lower Dantian for circulation throughout the body, transmuting it into Chi in the Middle Dantian. Meditation and visualization exercises fall under this category. While static Integrative Chi Kung exercises accumulate and strengthen internal Chi, dynamic postural training involves the channels, collaterals, muscles, sinew and bones. The more dynamic the movements, the more the Chi will be transformed inside the body. The exercises affect muscular tension, weight distribution, and the function of the internal organs. Dynamic Integrative Chi Kung exercises increase the circulation of Chi and blood in the channels and throughout the body. There are four main components of postural training. They are as follows: 1. Proper ready position. Proper posture will help the practitioner to relax the mind and release tension from the body, grounding, as well as focus on a specific goal for training. 2. Proper breathing method. When the Chi flows freely, the practitioner focuses on each inhalation and exhalation with the goal of purgation, tonification, and regulation of Chi. Proper breath allows the body maximum oxygen absorption and release of carbon dioxide. 31

34 3. Proper closing posture. This roots the body's energy in the Lower Dantian for storage of Chi intention, and avoids the creation of an excess condition or Chi deviations from the gathered Chi. (Similar to Kundalini Syndrome) 4. Proper intention. The exercises cannot be considered Integrative Chi Kung without the clear force of intention to guide the Chi. The enhancement of Chi flow via visualization and intention cannot be overemphasized. Remember that energy follows intention. The practitioner will choose the proper posture and duration of practice based on his or her own particular strength and condition. For example, weaker students will be taught exercises that can be performed lying down. Sitting is encouraged for those who feel able. Standing is the most favorable posture, but only if the body's condition allows. For weaker patients and for static Integrative Chi Kung in general, the emphasis is on visualization and Chi flow rather than physical movement. For stronger patients, the emphasis is on visualization, Chi flow and physical movement. Sitting is the most commonly used position for Integrative Chi Kung meditation. This position helps the practitioner to relax and focus on the inner observer. A practitioner can sit on a cushion or chair, but should have the buttocks slightly higher than the knees. This will form a triangle between the knees and the Lower Dantian, which establishes a firmer connection to the earth energy. This also allows the Chi from the earth to flow freely from the knees and coccyx into the body. In addition, if the feet are firmly planted on the ground, it will enhance the Chi flow from the earth into the body. Standing exercises (both dynamic and static) are the most tonifying in terms of gathering Chi. Standing allows the regulation and promotion of Chi flow. Proper standing posture, with the body relaxed and bones aligned on top of each other from the ground up, helps normalize blood pressure and calm the mind. The body should be relaxed and rooted into the ground like a tree with roots shooting deep into the earth. When beginning standing meditation or dynamic exercises, practitioners should first relax, sink, and shift their body weight back and forth between the balls of their feet and their heels. This practice provides a subtle message to the internal organs, helping dispel energetic congestion. Shifting forward causes the energy from Yin Earth to flow slowly upward through the Kidney meridian (K1-Bubbling Well) and shifting backwards causes the energy from the back of the body to flow downwards and sink into the Earth. This practice is enhanced by inhaling when shifting backward and exhaling when shifting forward. The Chi should flow back and forth like gentle waves in the ocean. Women who are menstruating should practice Integrative Chi Kung exercises and meditation while standing rather than sitting to avoid blocking energy circulation in the lower abdomen. In addition, at the end of an exercise program, women who 32

35 are menstruating should store the energy in their Middle Dantian rather than their Lower Dantian. PROPER INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG STRUCTURAL POSTURE The following is a list for proper Integrative Chi Kung standing posture, called Wuji posture, which translates to "primordial boundless infinite universe". Wuji posture is the foundation for all dynamic and quiescent standing exercises. This posture maximizes relaxation and Chi flow. 1. Stand with the feet flat 2. Align the soles of the feet 3. Bend the knees slightly, unlocking them 4. Relax the hips and rotate the pelvis forward 5. Contract the sex organ, perineum muscle and anal sphincter 6. Relax the waist 7. Tuck in the chest slightly and relax upper limbs 8. Suspend the head and tuck the chin, aligning the neck 9. The eyes are relaxed looking at the horizon 10. Arms are rounded and hands slightly rounded 11. Touch the tongue to the front of the upper palate, behind the teeth and gum line in fire position 12. Imagine growing roots from your feet 13. Imagine your chest and head so tall that you can see them above the atmosphere in the heavens 14. Expand the hands laterally away from the sides of your thighs 15. Circle the arms in ready position Each of these rules is described in detail as follows: Fire element tongue position 1 Stand with the feet flat Stand with the feet flat parallel to the outside of the shoulders for men and the outside of the hips for women. Weight should be distributed almost evenly on the centers of both feet favoring slightly the ball of the feet (Kidney 1, "Bubbling well") and toes pointing forwards. The toes softly grasp the ground to keep the body firmly rooted yet relaxed. It sets the stage for action creating a state of causality. Rigid or tense feet disrupt the flow of Chi from the earth into the body. The feet may vibrate or feel hot while training. This is a normal reaction to correct postural training and is beneficial as it dissolves any calcium deposits accumulated in the extremities of the feet. 33

36 2 Align the soles of the feet The four corners of the foot are (1) the mound of the big toe, (2) edge of the inner heel, (3) mound of the little toe, and (4) edge of the outer heel. To align the feet parallel, draw imaginary lines running from the center of the ankle to the center of the second toe. Start first by putting weight on the mound of the big toe, second put weight on the edge of the inner heel, third put weight on the mound of the little toe, and last put weight on the edge of the outer heel. This positioning will create a balanced, subtle inner draw of energy into the lower leg. 3 Bend the Knees The knees should be slightly bent (1/2 inch or less) and facing the same direction as the feet. Never bend the knees past the toes. Many people develop knee problems from various forms of exercise because they bend their knees too far forward or allow their knees to twist. Relaxing the knee joints increases the Chi and blood flow throughout the legs. The essence of the Wuji position is roundness. 4 Relax the Hips and rotate the pelvis forward Drop the buttocks slightly while sinking the Chi from the upper torso into the Lower Dantian, and relax the hips. Try to reduce the curve in the lower back while keeping the upper body from bending forward or backward. The buttocks should be gently tucked-in to help strengthen the spine and focus the Chi in the Lower Dantian. You may also imagine a weight hanging from the coccyx (tailbone). As the weight pulls down, tilt the sacrum under the body. Wuji - Ready Position 5 Contract the Sex Organ, Perineum muscle and Anal Sphincter The Perineum is known as the Lower Bridge, where the Yin-Yang channels meet and combine. Gently contracting the sex organ, perineum muscle and the anal sphincter seals the gathered Chi in the body. In Yoga it is called rootlock or mula bandha. Although the anal sphincter is held closed, it is important that the buttocks remain relaxed. Students may initially find it difficult to use abdominal breathing while keeping the anus closed. Be assured that it will rapidly become an unconscious reflex after regular practice. 34

37 6 Relax the Waist Relaxing the waist sinks the Chi into the Lower Dantian. Relax the waist by relaxing the hips and bending the knees. When the waist is relaxed, the spine will extend straight and upright. The abdomen is considered to be a furnace for refining Chi. The waist area is the residence of the kidneys and Meng main fire (gate of vitality or destiny, also called mingmen) and is an important junction for Chi and blood circulation. 7 Tuck in the Chest & Relax Upper Limbs The shoulders should slightly rotate forward and then down, without "sinking" the chest. On the inhale, fill the abdomen with breath while relaxing the chest with minimal movement, then the chest, followed by the clavicles. The back should be open and relaxed while you sink the shoulders. When the chest and back are without tension, the heart and lungs are able to function most efficiently, and circulation of energy in the Ren (Conception Vessel) and Du (Governing Vessel) channels improves. When the neck is loose and the shoulders are in proper posture, Chi will flow freely into the arms. The armpits open, allowing energy flow from the triple-heater, pericardium and the heart meridians. The elbows are slightly bent and held at the sides of the body with palms facing the legs. 8 Suspend the Head & Tuck the Chin Visualize the body as if suspended by a string connected to the Crown Point (Du 20, Governing Vessel) on the top of the head. The Crown Point should be directly above the body. This will elongate the spine and tuck the chin. Slightly tucking the chin and stacking the vertebrae on top of one another facilitates Chi and blood flow through the spinal column and brain (this activates the cranial pump). Feel the spine elongate with each breath. Check each part of the body to ensure that all muscles are relaxed. 9 The Eyes look at the Horizon It is easier to feel or guide inner Chi circulation with the eyes closed. The eyes therefore remain closed during meditations and visualizations. In class, the eyes remain soft and slightly open, paying attention to the teacher and looking at the horizon. 35

38 When regulating the body's energy, during dynamic exercises for example, the eyes remain soft and slightly open. 10 Arms are rounded and hands slightly rounded The arms are held in a rounded shape bending at the elbow, as if you were carrying a pair of pillows. The hands are slightly rounded with the fingers almost straight open, not touching each other. They are not rigid. The palm holds a "J" shape with the thumb down and relaxed. To achieve proper hand shape, place your hand over your forehead with the thumb and pinky at the hair-line, the index finger touching the Du-20 or Crown chakra. Remove the hand keeping the natural hand shape. 11 Touch the Tongue to the Upper Palate When the tongue touches the upper palate behind the teeth in the fire position, it connects the Ren (Conception Vessel) and Du (Governing Vessel) meridians Throat and the Ajna chakras like a circuit enhancing Chi circulation in the front and back of the body. The lips are gently closed and the teeth slightly touch. This seals in the Chi and prevents it from leaking, as does closing the anal sphincter. 12 Imagine Growing Roots from your Feet Imagine that roots grow from your feet into the Earth. These roots are the largest you can imagine going all the way around and into the planet Earth. You and the Earth are one. You can do this faster than the speed of light with a clear intention. 13 Imagine your Chest and Head above the Atmosphere in the Heavens Imagine having your chest, from your solar plexus up, above the atmosphere where the heavens are no longer sky-blue. They are black and you are surrounded by the stars and galaxies. You are one with the heavens above. 14 Expand the hands laterally away from the sides of your thighs As you inhale visualize your hands moving slightly away from your thighs, and exhale coming together. Repeat for 3 to 5 cycles. 15 Spiral the hands in ready position Spiral your arms in small circles downwards from the shoulder, drawing little ovals in the air with your hands; the left hand is moving clockwise and the right hand counterclockwise. Keep your fingers open to allow the Chi to flow. 36

39 THE NATURAL BREATHING METHOD "Natural Breathing," is generally the first type of Medical Integrative Chi Kung respiratory pattern that is taught to patients. Natural Breathing is further divided into Abdominal Breathing, Thoracic Breathing, Clavicle Breathing, Integrated Breath and Tummo Breath. ABDOMINAL BREATHING METHOD (60%) This breathing method is also called "Prenatal Breathing," because during the growth and transformation process, the abdomen of the fetus moves up and down, acting like a pump, drawing nutrition and Chi into its body. With this breathing method, Chi is inhaled through the nose and guided down the front of the chest into the abdomen. The lower abdomen naturally expands out and down like a ball upon inhalation. In order to help fill the lower abdomen completely, imagine that Chi is simultaneously flowing from the back of the head down the spine into the lower abdomen when inhaling. Upon exhalation, the lower abdomen will naturally contract allowing the gathered Chi to remain within the Lower Dantian. In this breathing pattern, the Chi is allowed to naturally fill and expand the patient's Lower Dantian and lower abdominal area. Upon inhalation, the patient's lower abdominal area will naturally expand like a ball of Chi, stretching outward in six directions like the Buddha belly: from the bottom the anal sphincter, coccyx, pelvic diaphragm and urogenital diaphragm at the base of the perineum expand downwards from the front the pubic bone and navel press forward from the back the sacrum, lower lumbar vertebrae and Meng main press backward from the right the hip and floating rib areas expand outward from the left the hip and floating rib areas expand outward from the top the base of the respiratory diaphragm slightly expands forward, upward and backward THORACIC BREATHING METHOD (38%) In this breathing pattern, the Chi is allowed to naturally fill and expand the patient's Middle Dantian and upper thoracic area. Upon inhalation, the patient's upper thoracic area will naturally expand like a ball of Chi, stretching outward in six directions: 37

40 from the bottom the respiratory diaphragm pushes down from the front the solar plexus, Heart, Middle Dantian, and collar bones expand forward from the back the base of the thoracic vertebrae, ribs, and scapulae expand outward from the right the ribs and intercostal muscles press out to the side from the left the ribs and intercostal muscles press out to the side from the top the base of the throat, the neck, and the upper thoracic diaphragm lift slightly upwards Excessive Thoracic Breathing may cause oxygen level in the blood increase while the carbon dioxide falls below the required level. This is known as respiratory alkalosis (a pathological condition where the blood acid-alkali balance tips toward excessive alkali), and manifests as "hyperventilation syndrome," which consists of breathing difficulty, spasms, and fainting. Thoracic Breathing Form Practice the following routine to experience the thoracic breath: 1. Start in Wuji position 2. Inhale lifting the arms in front of the chest to shoulder height, parallel 3. Exhale stretching the arms forward with the hands and fingers stretched out 4. Inhale retracting the shoulders, arms and hands back filling the chest with air and bending the elbows 5. Continue these rhythm, repeating 3 & 4 for a many cycles as it feels comfortable 38

41 6. To close the form, inhale retracting the shoulders, arms and hands back, filling the chest with air and bending the elbows 7. Exhale as you bring your hands down in front of your Lower Dantian and back to Wuji posture or starting position CLAVICLE BREATHING METHOD (2%) In this breathing pattern, the Chi is inhaled into the most upper part of the lungs. The rotational motion of the clavicles and the shoulders backward allow this to happen. Bring the shoulder blades inward toward the center of the spine. Clavicle Breathing Form Practice the following routine to experience the clavicle breath: 1. Start in Wuji position 2. Inhale lifting the arms laterally away and up to the shoulders, to shoulder height 3. Exhale stretching the arms laterally pushing out with your hands and fingers stretch up into the sky, as if you would be separating two walls 4. Inhale retracting the shoulders blades inward toward the center of your spinal cord; the scapula moves toward the center spine, and the elbows bend 5. Continue this rhythm, repeating 3 & 4 for as many cycles as feels comfortable 6. To close the form, inhale retracting the shoulders inward toward the center of your spinal cord; the scapula moves toward the center spine, and the elbows bend 7. Exhale as you bring your hands down to the side back to Wuji posture or starting position 39

42 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG BREATH METHOD In this slow breathing pattern all three previous patterns are combined into one. Start inhalation in the abdomen(1), followed by the thorax(2), and completing with the clavicle(3). Continued by exhaling first the abdomen(1), followed by the thorax(2) and ending with the clavicle(3). This pattern allows for maximum intake of oxygen and exit of carbon dioxide in the body while moving the Chi upward following the Taiji Pole in a transformation pattern. Healing Benefits Integrative Chi Kung masters have always placed a great deal of importance on the breath, understanding that relaxed breathing directly calms the nervous system from the sympathetic mode to the parasympathetic mode. Inhalation increases the flow of lymph fluid from other parts of the body into the thoracic duct of the lymphatic system, and exhalation creates a suction effect that enhances the veins ability to empty the duct; therefore, proper breathing helps keep the body's extracellular fluids clean and circulating properly. Deep breathing also lowers blood pressure, massages the abdominal organs, stimulates peristalsis, increases the body's immune system response, and makes the body more alkaline. Inhalation gathers universal and environmental Chi and oxygen into the lungs, where at the alveoli (air cells) oxygen is absorbed into the blood through a process of gas exchange, and carbon dioxide, which is the end product of the body's biochemical reactions, is discharged. The "spent" blood used in the brain, internal organs and other body parts converges to the lungs as they expand. Exhalation eliminates turbid Chi and carbon dioxide from the body. When the lungs contract, fresh blood, containing nutrients from the liver and oxygen, is squeezed out toward the heart, which then transports it to the entire body. Inhalation tonifies and exhalation purges. An even number of each inhalation/exhalation is neutral and excellent for Chi and blood circulation. In order to breathe in a plentiful supply of air, we must expel as much of the used air from our lungs as possible. This can be done by using the perineum and abdominal muscles initially when exhaling. When exhaling vigorously, the ATP (adenosine triphosphate) cycle, a biochemical oxidation-reduction reaction used by all living organisms to produce energy, works more efficiently. Proper intention with active use of imagination, visualization and affirmation during practice or when treating patients with Integrative Shen Kung is essential. All three change the creative subconscious mind, which in turn re-programs the body. Intention leads the 40

43 mind (thought), and the mind leads the Chi (energy). We use imagination and visualization to help focus the mind to guide the flow of Chi through intended pathways, and to enhance the benefits of Integrative Chi Kung exercise, meditation, or treatment. The alternating action of expanding and contracting naturally increases the body's peristaltic movements, thus massaging the internal organs. The Abdominal Breathing Method is used to strengthen the reproductive organs, invigorate and root the movement of Chi from the Kidneys into the Lower Dantian, strengthen the body's Jing (Essence), strengthen the lower lumbar, and reduce stress. The Thoracic Breathing Method is used to stimulate and invigorate the energetic openings of the bronchi and alveoli within the Lungs, increase Chi and Blood flow to the Lungs and the Heart, stimulate the thymus gland, and strengthen the immune system. In addition, oxygenating the body creates an Alkaline body state allowing acid in the tissue to be expelled, therefore reducing inflammation. Immune System Response There is much evidence that increasing the patient's blood oxygen level helps fight tumor tissue and increases the body's immune system response. Phagocytic leukocytes (white blood corpuscles or cell-eaters) are the first and most important line of defense against infection. Data clearly show that the killing capacity of granulocytes (a category of white blood cells characterized by the presence of granules in their cytoplasm) is normal only to the degree to which oxygen is available to them. 23 This is probably the basis for the age-old observation that local immunity is proportional to blood supply. Normally, leukocytes move and digest bacteria equally well by using anaerobically (without oxygen) or aerobically (with oxygen) derived energy. However, the capacity of leukocytes to kill bacteria depends largely on molecular oxygen. Bacterial killing is usually conceived of as comprising two major components. The first involves degranulation and ingestion of the bacteria. The second mechanism, called "oxidative killing," depends on molecular oxygen, which is captured by leukocytes and converted to high-energy radicals such as superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, peroxides, aldehydes, hypochlorite and hypoiodite which are toxic to bacteria in varying degrees. The rate of production of toxic radicals and hence the adequacy of oxidative bacterial killing is directly proportional to local oxygen tension. These experiments show that oxygen effects are not only clinically evident, but are clinically important Textbook and Color Atlas of Traumatic Injuries to the Teeth by Jens Andreasen, Frances Andreasen and Lars Andersson 24 Taken from the notes of the Winter Symposium on Baromedicine, January 12-15, 1994, by Robert Bartlett, MD, FACEP 41

44 BALANCE BREATH EXERCISE BREATH RATIO 6:3:6 Basic Guidelines The main points are to exercise moderation, balance and common sense with regard to inner and outer breathing. However, for those who seriously wish to take up the advanced practices of breathing, the guidance of an experienced teacher is essential. Wate r: Bathe or shower before your practice and not after; water washes away the Chi. Wait a few hours before washing your body with water. Clear Nostrils: Blow your nose, clearing your nostrils as much as possible before beginning, or practice. Jala-Neti, nasal irrigation, can be applied using your own fresh urine for best cleansing health results. Breathing: Always breathe through the nose and not the mouth, unless specifically instructed otherwise. The nose should be cleaned regularly by Jala-Neti Nasal Irrigation prior to the practice session. Be aware of the nostrils throughout the techniques. While inhaling, the nostrils should dilate or expand outwards and while exhaling, they should relax back to their normal position. Time of Practice: The best time to practice breathing techniques is during the early morning, following meditation. The body is fresh and the mind has very few irritants. However, if this is not a good time, practice just after sunset. Try to practice regularly at the same time and place each day. Regularity in practice increases strength and willpower, as well as acclimating the body and mind to the increased Chi force. Do not be in a hurry. Slow, steady progress is essential. Place of Practice: Practice in a quiet, clean and pleasant room that is well ventilated, but not draughty. Extremely cold or hot air can affect your health adversely. Generally, avoid practicing in direct sunlight. The solar Chi is too strong and the body will become overheated, except at dawn when the soft rays of the early morning sun are beneficial. Sitting Position: A comfortable and sustainable meditation posture is necessary to enable efficient breathing and body steadiness during practice. The body should be as relaxed as possible throughout the practice, with the spine, neck and head centered. Sit on a folded blanket or cloth of natural fiber to ensure the maximum condition of energy during the practice. A practitioner can sit on a cushion or chair, but should have the buttocks slightly higher than the knees. This will form a triangle between the knees and the Lower Dantian, which establishes a firmer connection to the earth energy. This also allows the Chi from the earth to flow freely from the knees and coccyx into the body. 42

45 Clothes: Loose, comfortable clothing made of natural fibers should be worn during the practice. The body may be covered with a sheet or blanket when it is cold, or to keep insects away. Empty Stomach: Wait at least three to four hours after meals before practicing breathing techniques. Food in the stomach puts pressure on the diaphragm and lungs, making full, deep respiration difficult. Tongue connection: Place your tongue on your palate throughout the exercise. Avoid Strain: With all breathing practices it is important to remember the instruction not to strain, not to try to increase your capacity too fast. If one is advised to practice a breathing technique for a specific length of time, before moving on to a more advanced practice or ratio, it is wise to follow that instruction. Furthermore, breath retention should only be practiced for as long as is comfortable. The fluidity of your breath is the priority if your breath begins to be choppy or uneven, stop and allow your breath to return to its own natural rhythm. If you begin to feel faint, dizzy, flushed, or light-headed, stop the exercise and allow your breath to return to its own natural rhythm. This may be the result of the increased oxygen levels in the body, which your body may not be accustomed to. You should increase your practice and use of oxygen gradually. Three-Part Breath Breathe into the abdomen first, follow by the chest, last the clavicle area. Breathe out of the abdomen first, then chest, and last the clavicle area. The rhythm of the respiration dictates the quality and length of life. The ancient yogis studied nature in great detail. They noticed that animals with a slow breath-rate such as pythons, elephants, and tortoises have long life spans, whereas those with a fast breathing rate, such as birds, dogs, and rabbits, live for only a few years. This breathing technique utilizes breath retention to establish control over the flow of Chi, calming the mind, and controlling the thought process. Once the mind has been stilled, and Chi flows freely in the Nadis and chakras, the doorway to the evolution of consciousness opens, leading the aspirant into higher dimensions of spiritual experience. This optimal breathing pattern cleanses and balances the energy of both sides of the brain lobes. It also cleans and balances the energy of the left and right sides of the body. 43

46 Procedure Before you start the process, wash your hands with salt or spray them with lavender/palo Santo & vodka. Use the left hand to control the breath and a metronome to define the speed of the cycle. You can always use the sound of your heart. When using a metronome set it between 64 and 68 bits per minute. Find the rhythm that it is comfortable for you. Use Thumb & Ring Fingers Even though you start inhaling from the right nostril and exhaling on the left, the process is about exhaling and inhaling on the same nostril, and then alternating to the other nostril. Begin by exhaling naturally. 1. Hold shut your left nostril with the thumb of the left hand and inhale through the right nostril for a count of Hold the breath for a count of Open the left nostril and close right nostril with ring fingers, and exhale through the left nostril for a count of Hold the breath out for a count of Inhale on the same side the left nostril for a count of Hold the breath for a count of Hold shut your left nostril with the thumb and exhale through the right nostril for a count of Hold the breath out for a count of Repeat the cycle for a total of 7 times. One compete cycle is 6:3:6:3:6:3:6:3. 44

47 TUMMO BREATH METHOD The Tummo breath practices were taught by Shakyamuni Buddha in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and have been passed down orally until the time of Naropa. One of the most famous practitioners of Tummo according to the Tibetan tradition was held to be Milarepa. Dr. Arya describes the raising of psychic heat, Drod, through the lung chakras in a manner comparable to the "serpent fire" (Sanskrit: Kundalini) in traditional Tibetan medicine: The psychic heat, Drod, is produced by the space particles and the heat manifested from the friction of the wind element. This is another fundamental element as it supports and gives power to the consciousness, like the power of the fire that can launch rockets to space. The power is called medrod or "digestion fire" in medicine and Tummo in tantra yoga. The heat (fire) sustains life and protects the body/mind-spirit. The psychic fire increases the wisdom, burns the ignorant mind of the brain and gives realization and liberation from the darkness of unawareness. That is why yoga describes Tummo as the aggressive fire which ignites from below the navel, pierces the chakras one by one and reaches the sky of the crown chakra. The tummo burning arrow married with the celestial bride leads to enjoy the life of transformation of samsara (cycle of reincarnation). They give birth to the son of awareness from the blissful garden of Vajrayogini. 25 The goal of Tummo is to produce a managed quantum energy to manifest wisdom and compassion. Tummo has a set of preliminaries that it shares in common with Tantric practice and Kundalini yoga. In the Tummo breath the upward life-supporting wind and the downward voiding winds are joined together under pressure. Tummo Breath must be practiced in conjunction with appropriate empowerment and under the direction of a traditionally qualified Tantric Guru. Extensive preparation and pure motivation, most specifically bodhichitta (union of wisdom and compassion), are absolutely essential both to beneficial results and to the avoidance of physical pain and discomfort from Kundalini imbalances. 25 Arya, Pasang Yonten (2006). Tibetan Tantric Yoga Vajrayogini or Vajravarahi as a tantric Buddhist meditational deity (Tibetan: yidam or Sanskrit: ishtadeva) comes to us in many forms and from various lineages. She embodies principally: (1) the fully enlightened female, wild, fiery, and energetic (shakti/kundalini) aspect of a Buddha; (2) the wisdom (= experiential) aspect leading to Buddhahood; and (3) as a principal dakini (Tibetan: mkha' gro; "sky-goer") the (com)passionate guiding and inspirational aspect leading the practitioner to enlightenment. 45

48 Procedure The practice of Tummo Breath has six steps: Balancing Breath 6:3:6, Power Breaths, Energy Drop to the Lower Dantian, Breath Retention, Energy Release with Visualization, and Closing. 1. Balancing Breath 6:3:6 This procedure has been explained in detailed above. The importance of this first step is to allow the balancing of the Ida and Pingala Nadis, putting equal emphasis on energy channel preparation as well as physically clearing the respiratory channels. 2. Power Breaths The second step is done sitting down at first to facilitate stability and control dizziness from the excess oxygen. Sit at the edge of the seat to maintain the spinal cord as straight as possible, place your hands over the navel, and take 7, 9 or 11 long (depending on your level of experience and control), consistent, smooth and powerful breaths through the nose, moving the torso down toward your knees on exhalation and up on inhalation. 3. Energy Drop to the Lower Dantian At the end of the 7 th, 9 th or 11 th breath, hold the breath practicing Neck Lock (Jalandhara Bhanda see below) and Rootlock (Mula Bandha see below). Swallow the saliva directing the energy and the weight of the air in the lungs down to the Lower Dantian, pushing the abdomen out-anddown as far forward and down as possible. Curl or roll your tongue and exhale though it as slow as possible while maintaining the abdomen down. If rolling the tongue is too difficult, open your lips slightly with a smile. 4. Breath Retention (Kumbhaka) At the end of the long and slow exhale do Kumbhaka on empty breath and touch the tongue to the palate. As you maintain the position, retract the chin, lifting the back of the head and stretching the spinal cord further up. 5. Energy Release with Visualization Maintaining Kumbhaka, visualize the energy moving up from the Lower Dantian (abdomen) to the Solar Plexus, up to the Heart, and further to the Forehead, Crown and beyond. Observe the energy inside and feel the warmth as it permeates and irradiates from the core outward. Use the conscious intent to regulate the heat as 46

49 it flows outward. You are in control of your own path in life. Finally allow the energy to flow up into the Crown Chakra and release back into the universe. Relax to a natural breath rhythm. 6. Closing To close the Tummo Breath procedure place both hands over the area of the Lower Dantian (navel) in the "proper hand Mudrā" (energetic seal), with the left hand inside the right hand. This particular Mudrā is taught and demonstrated in class and workshops. Place your left hand inside of your right hand, connecting the tip of the left hand fingers to the intersection of the metacarpal and phalanges of the right hand, and connect the tip of the thumbs. Take 7 long, deep breaths to consolidate the energy, placing the focus on the Heart. Smile from the Heart outward in gratitude. Rotate the hands in a spiral motion first clockwise for seven (7) cycles, stopping at the bottom of the abdomen. Then rotate both hands counterclockwise three (3) cycles to release any excess energy. Observing the hand position of the Buddha hands throughout drawings and sculptures, you will notice that the hand Mudra of the Buddha is opposite to the recommended Mudra in this book. For now I only say, "when you become a Buddha then utilize the Buddha's Mudra", until then follow this recommendation. When you master Shen Kung and can scan the flow of energy moving through this Mudra, then make the best decision to satisfy your requirements. Rootlock (Mula Bandha) The rootlock closes the lower three chakras so that the energy cannot be lost or leaked out through the base of the spine, the Sacrum. As a consequence the energy stays in the body and can be directed to flow up the spine. As with all the locks, the rootlock is done either while holding the breath in or holding the breath out. The complete rootlock is done by slightly contracting the sex organs, muscles of the perineum, and anal sphincter while pulling the navel center in toward the spine. To identify and work with the muscles of each of the chakras, practice working with them separately. 47

50 When the rootlock is applied while retaining the breath, the two major energy flows of prana (incoming energies of life) and apana (downward flowing energies of life) are united. This generates psychic heat, which triggers the release of Kundalini energy. Neck Lock (Jalandhara Bhanda) The neck lock involves a very subtle movement. Move the chin down slightly and pull the head up. The chest will open up. You will move from a slumped posture and caved in chest to a straighter posture and open heart center. The shoulders should relax, dropping and releasing downwards. The tongue and throat should relax. Straightening the cervical vertebrae allows the free flow of Chi to the brain, opening the connection between the heart and the head. The jaw muscles are a master-switch to relaxing the whole body. Relax the jaw, relax the body. 48

51 INTEGRATIVE CHI KUNG FORMS HARMONIZING THE BREATH This small form is used as preparation or at any time during the execution of the forms whenever you feel your body: Out of breath alignment Feels congested with stagnant or toxic Chi Feels depleted Feels stressed in any way Steps for Harmonizing the Breath 1. In Wuji ready position, ground your body into the earth. 2. Inhale through the nose, pulling your hands facing upward under the shoulder. The chest is gently expanded. 3. Exhale, bending the body forward 45 and closing the fists. The knees do not bend any further than the Wuji position. The hands and fists push out as if you were punching away and laterally. 49

52 4. Inhale back pulling your hands facing upward under the shoulder as before. 5. Exhale, bending forward 45, fists push out as if you were punching away and laterally. 6. Repeat 7, 9 or 18 cycles or as needed to bring you back to balance and a coherent state. 7. To close properly, roll the shoulders around with the fists in front of the Lower Dantian. You are moving the shoulder blades, loosening the mid-back. Let the shoulders carry the arms. 8. Return to Wuji ready position. 50

53 FORM 1 SELF-CLEANSING EXERCISE, TWO BREATHS PER CYCLE "Do not put clean water in a dirty glass" This exercise is recommended for use at the beginning of every Integrative Chi Kung practice. It is a purging exercise that cleanses the internal organs, eliminates turbid Chi, enhances Chi flow downward through all meridians, extraordinary vessels and tissues, and calms the mind. It was developed to enhance the body's Hun Yuan Chi the energy force of Heaven and Earth as imprinted within the Jing or essence at the moment of conception and to flush and cleanse the organ networks. This can be used as a Purging exercise prescription to: Eliminate the body's turbid Chi Unclog main and collateral channels Wash bones and transform the Marrow Move Rebellious Chi downward and out. Rebellious Chi is when Chi flows in the wrong direction in a destructive manner. One set consists of focusing the Chi down the front, the back, and then center of the body. This will ground and ready you for the practice, and can be used as a solo exercise as well. Self-Cleansing, two(2) breaths per cycle 1. Begin in Wuji ready position with eyes slightly open to absorb Chi from the environment into the Lower Dantian. Breathe using Integrative Chi Kung Breath (Abdominal/Chest/Clavicle). Inhale and exhale through the nose. Pull the Chi from the horizon into the eyes and down to the Lower Dantian, filling the entire body. 2. Inhale through the nose and raise arms out to the sides with palms facing downward. Absorb the Earth-Yin energy from the earth into the body through the palms as it pushes the palms up. 3. At shoulder height, turn the palms up as you exhale through the nose, slowly absorbing Yang energy from the heavens (universal yang energy) into the body as your hands continue to rise overhead, and down toward the forehead, palms facing downward over the front fontanelle of the head, 1 inch behind the hairline. 51

54 4. Pause when the hands are above the fontanelle, at the front edge of the Crown Chakra. Inhale fully moving your hands upward just 1 inch. 5. While exhaling, slowly lower the hands in front of the body in one continuous descending movement along the front of the body with fingertips pointing outward in a slight angle to each other, as if holding the bottom two angles of an imaginary triangle, palms face down, directing the Chi flow down the entire front (back, or center) deep into the earth through the roots of the feet. 6. Repeat 7, 9 or 18 cycles through the front, back and center of the body. 7. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. 52

55 FORM 2 SELF-CLEANSING WITH ONE BREATH PER CYCLE 1. Begin in Wuji Ready position with eyes slightly open to absorb Chi from the environment into the Lower Dantian. Breathe using Integrative Chi Kung Breath (Abdominal/Chest/Clavicle). Inhale and exhale through the nose. Pull the Chi from the horizon into the eyes and down to the Lower Dantian, filling the entire body. 2. Inhale through the nose and raise arms out to the sides with palms facing downward. Absorb the Earth-Yin energy from the earth into body through the palms as the energy lifts your hands and arms. 3. At shoulder height, turn the palms up as you continue inhaling through the nose slowly absorbing Heaven-Yang energy from the heavens (universal yang energy) into the body as your hands continue to rise overhead. 4. Pause when the hands are above the Crown Chakra holding the breath for a few seconds, floating in space. 5. While exhaling, slowly lower the hands in front of the body in one continuous movement, lowering the palms down the front of the body with right and left hand, fingertips pointing outwards, at a slight angle to each other. Palms face down and direct the Chi flow down the entire front (back, or center) of the body and deep into the earth through the roots of the feet. At the end of the exhale, continue the motion in empty while you complete the down flow. 6. Inhale through the nose and begin sequence once more. The second time through, in step 5, the energy is directed down the back of the body from the back of the head down into the earth. The third time through, the energy penetrates the Crown Point (Du 20, the highest point of the head) passing through the entire inside of the body (Taiji Pole) out the perineum and roots of the feet, and deep into the earth. 7. Repeat 7, 9 or 18 cycles through the front, back and center of the body. 8. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. Visualize the gathering of Chi on the inhale, and the lowering of Chi on the exhale. When sending the energy down the front (back, or center) of the body, feel each muscle relaxing as the energy passes it. When pulling down energy through the center of the body, imagine it coating, cleansing, and soothing all internal organs. Be sure to visualize the energy sinking deep into the earth with each pass. 53

56 To end the exercise, relax your whole body and return to Wuji posture. Imagine a thick healing mist within and around the body. Rotate the arms from the shoulder, drawing small circles with your hands, as you prepare to continue your Integrative Chi Kung Healing session. This exercise is sufficient to purge the body for people who are generally healthy and wish to practice Integrative Chi Kung for health maintenance purposes. To intensify this self-cleansing Integrative Chi Kung exercise, you can add color and internal sound. Color: As you execute you last exhale moving the energy down, imagine that the energy around your hands is glowing pastel color light-whitish-green, and I mean, very light-lightwhitish-green like the color of sprouts or the glow of a star. Green energy has the ability to break down congested energy, allowing the excess body-energy to loosen its grip. Sound: Add two sounds to the inhale/exhale periods. Sat... is the sound of inhalation, and is remembered in the mind. Naam... is the sound of exhalation, and is remembered in the mind along with each exhalation. The internal vibration these sounds produce allows the energy to flow through the spine and chakras freely. 54

57 FORM 3 CONNECTING HEAVEN & EARTH Earth is the provider of Yin energy and Heaven provides the Yang. The principle of the form is to cultivate and strengthen the Lower Dantian energy by blending it together with the Yin and Yang Chi that flow through the Chakras. This method roots and stabilizes the body, causing the Crown chakra (GV-20) or Baihui point, the two Palm chakras (Pc-8) and the two Sole of the Feet chakras (Bubbling Well Kd-1) to return to their original coherent energy state with Earth and the universe. Throughout this practice the Meng main pushes backwards and the energy of the Lower Dantian disperses through the body, and the Yuan Chi the energy force of Heaven and Earth as imprinted within the Jing or essence at the moment of conception returns and gathers into the navel center. This gathering and extending, back-and-forth action of the energy of the Five Chakras transforms the body's Yuan Chi, strengthens the Yin and Yang energy, opens the body's channels, and encourages the merging of the Heart's Fire and the Kidneys' Water Chi. This method is divided into two forms: The Connecting to Heaven and Connecting to Earth forms. Connecting to Heaven Hands rise in front 1. Begin in Wuji Ready position, knees bent deeper than normal. 2. Inhale as you bring the hands in front of the Lower Dantian, with the left hand on the Lower Dantian and the right hand resting on top of the left; both Palm chakra (Pc-8) points face the navel center. 3. Exhale as you relax the shoulders. 4. Inhale as both arms rise up the front center line of the body following the Conception Vessel. Extend the intention into the heavens and begin to gather the universal Chi, as you stretch out, straightening the knees. Imagine Heavenly Yang Chi descending and completely filling the body via the Crown chakra (GV-20) or Baihui point. See picture below 2nd position. 5. Exhale and feel the Heavenly Yang Chi penetrating deep into the body's center core of the Taiji Pole and the three Dantians as you bring the hands down along the sides of the torso, bending the knees again. Lead the energy from the center core through the body's tissues to the outside of the Wei Chi defensive field. (see Lower Dantian, page 5) Imagine the Heavenly Yang Chi washing through the pores and filling up the body's external energy bubble like a brilliant white mist with a lightviolet glow in the periphery. 6. Repeat 7, 9, or 18 cycles. 7. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. 55

58 Inhale as the arms lift. Exhale as you bring down the energy. Connecting to Earth Hands rise by the sides of the body This is the exact reverse action of the Connecting to Heaven form. 1. Begin in Wuji Ready position, knees bent deeper than normal. 2. Inhale as you bring the hands in front of the Lower Dantian, with the left hand on the Lower Dantian and the right hand resting on top of the left; both Palm chakra(pc-8) points face the navel center. 3. Exhale as you relax the shoulders. 4. Inhale and begin to separate the hands, moving them to the sides of the body. Imagine gathering the Earth Yin Chi into the body as the hands rise upwards towards the head laterally. As you stretch out, straighten the knees. Imagine the Earth Yin Chi completely covering the entire body. 5. Exhale and feel the Earth Yin Chi penetrating deep into the body's center core Taiji Pole containing the three Dantians via the Crown chakra (GV-20) or Baihui point as you bring the hands crossed in front of you, parallel to the shoulders. Lead the Earth energy from inside of the body's center core to the outside, as you bend the knees. Imagine the Earth Chi, like steam, releasing through the pores and filling up the body's external Wei Chi-field bubble like a white mist with a light-golden glow in the periphery. 6. Repeat 7, 9, or 18 cycles. 7. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. 56

59 Inhale as the arms lift. Exhale as you bring down the energy. 57

60 FORM 4 EXPAND AND CONTRACT THE SPINE Expand and contract the spine refers to the expansion and contraction of the spinal intervertebral discs and joints. This tonification and purging exercise invigorates and strengthens the Yuan Chi the energy force of Heaven and Earth as imprinted within the Jing or essence at the moment of conception; aids in transforming Jing to Chi; and strengthens the entire spine. The practitioner s coordination and balance are also positively affected. While performing this exercise, the body should move like a "leopard playing in the waves" by rising and sinking, and twisting and coiling. The goal is to stretch and loosen the spinal column, rib articulations, and the back. This will cause the body's Heart Fire to descend and Kidney Water energy to ascend naturally through the body's center channels. As a tonification exercise it: Tonifies the Kidneys and Meng main Tonifies the Spine and the Sea of Marrow Tonifies the Yin and Yang channels Tonifies the Gastrointestinal Tract When kidney essence is transformed into the marrow, part of the marrow collects to form the "Sea of Marrow" which makes up the brain and spinal column, which are responsible for neurological functions as well as intelligence. If the kidney essence is abundant then so will be the sea of marrow resulting in acute thinking and hearing. This exercise can be modified into a stationary position for convalescing patients or patients confined to a wheelchair. The patient bends forward, allowing the spine to slowly stretch, shifting the body to a forty-five degree angle. Contract and Expand the Spine 1. Begin in Wuji ready position. 2. Walk your feet to a wider stance, with the feet opened in a 45 angle pointing to the corners of the room. Weight is shifted 70% to the back, 30% forward with both hands positioned in front of the Lower Dantian like holding an energy ball. 58

61 Exhale Inhale as you stretch Exhale 3. Inhale as you bring the hands to the front of the Lower Dantian like holding a ball of Chi. 4. Exhale as you relax the shoulders. 5. Inhale as hands raise out and upward stretching forward, creating an arc and stretching the spinal column upward. The hands keep holding the ball of Chi. When extending and stretching the spine forward, imagine the Earth Yin energy traveling up the back leg, through the spine and Governing Vessel to the top of the head Crown chakra (GV-20) or Baihui point, extending down to the Ajna chakra and both Pc-8 points at the center of the palms. 6. While extending the energy outward, use intention to connect with the Heavenly Yang energy, look at the horizon and connect to its energy. 7. Exhale as both hands draw back; shift the weight to the back leg, allowing the spinal column to contract. As you shift your weight back to the starting position, imagine drawing Yin energy up from the Earth into the body. 8. Inhale as hands rise out and upward stretching forward. 9. Exhale as both hands draw back. 8. Repeat 7, 9, or 18 cycles. 10. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. 11. Switch directions and repeat the entire sequence while reversing the rotation. Expand & Contract the Spine As purgation exercise it: Disperses and purges Lumbar stagnation Disperses and purges Kidney Chi Stagnation Moves Chi Stagnation Treats Gastrointestinal Tract disorders 59

62 Exhale Inhale as you streatch Exhale To perform the second half of the exercise: 1. Exhale as you shift the body's weight forward and begin moving the body in the reverse circular direction. Imagine the Heaven Yang Chi traveling from the Crown chakra (GV-20) or Baihui point down the Conception Vessel in the front of the body and out the front foot, extending deep into the Earth. 2. Inhale as the weight shifts back. Imagine drawing Yang Chi from the Heavens back into the body through the head Crown chakra (GV-20) or Baihui point and hands Pc-8 points at the center of the palms. 3. Repeat 7, 9, or 18 cycles. 5. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. 6. Switch directions and repeat the entire sequence while reversing the rotation. Sink the Chi deep into the Earth, allowing the body to be cleansed and purified. 7. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. 60

63 FORM 5 MERIDIAN ENERGY FLOW The natural flow of Chi through the meridians in the body follows a natural rhythm from the feet to the heart, from the chest (heart) to the hands, from the hands to the head, and from the head to the feet. 1. Begin in Wuji ready position 2. Inhale, bringing your hands toward the center and up following the Conception Vessel to chest height. Imagine your Chi flowing from your feet to your chest (heart) as you move your hands. 3. Exhale allowing your Heart Chi to open your hands laterally. Imagine your Chi flowing from your chest to your hands as you open them. 4. Inhale as your hands move up into the sky traversing the universe, gathering star energy. Imagine your Chi flowing from your hands to your head as you move your hands. 5. Exhale as your hands move down from the heavens through your Taiji Pole, palms down cleansing stagnated energy out through your feet. Imagine your Chi flowing from your head to your feet as you move your hands down in front of your body. 61

64 Repeat the sequence following steps 2 though 5 for total of 7, 9 or 18 cycles. 6. Relax the breath and return to Wuji ready position. The above diagram depicts the detailed cycle of Chi flow from organ network to organ network throughout the 24 hour day and the seasons of the year. Starts with the Lung at dawn and ends with Liver. This form enhances global Chi flow, and particularly enhances and balances the Yin Organs, the Zang organs. 62

65 The Zang organs (Yin organs) are identified by the Blue Down Arrow in combination with the Violet Down Arrow. They represent the five(5) Yin organs, considered the most important creative energy in human evolution and balanced health. They are responsible for transportation and storage, deal with excesses and wastes, control internal communication, make decisions and activate body functions. Their healthy energy creates the body's natural resistance against diseases and its repair ability, closely associated with physiological activity. The Lungs The Lungs control Chi-breath, the first contact with the external winds, the first protection maintaining integrity of the body's outer barriers. The Lungs send Protective Chi to the body's skin and hair, providing warmth and nourishment to the skin, subcutaneous tissues and muscles; and also controlling the opening and closing of skin pores. Because Lung Chi flows downward, Lungs help to control water and fluids. The Lungs are associated with the nostrils and our sense of smell. The quality of Lung Chi is seen in the skin and body hair. The Spleen The Spleen is essential to the process of digestion and distribution of nourishment. If the Spleen's Chi is strong, the food's essence is spread throughout the body. If Chi is weak, the body becomes undernourished and weak. This same distribution function occurs for water too; the Spleen ensures proper hydration of our cells and the elimination of water through the kidneys. The Spleen governs transportation and transformation of body fluids and nutrient essences, and also controls blood flow directly affecting the quality of the blood. The Spleen controls the proper functioning of the limbs and maintenance of the skeletal muscles. It affects our mental function; our intention, determination or willpower, and the awareness of possibilities for change. The Heart (& Pericardium) The Heart is the ruler of all the Zang organs, ruling the spirit. The Heart regulates the immune activities, controls mental activity, the vessels and circulation of blood. Problems with the Heart are often seen in the face and in the complexion. Our mental health, our ability to think, and the vigor of our blood are directly related to the strength of the Heart Chi. The Heart opens into the tongue. The Pericardium is the Heart protector, the first line of defense against from external pathogenic influences. It is not consider separate or distinguished from the Heart. 63

66 The Kidneys The Kidneys store Jing and convert it into Kidney Chi, which is used to help control water. This is a function shared with the Lungs. The Kidneys send clear healthy water upward to circulate in the body and send used, turbid waters downward for elimination. Because blood and bones are so intimately connected to water, the Kidneys are also responsible for their proper functioning. They govern congenital constitution and prosperity of healthy energy. The Kidneys regulate the urinary system, and they exercise control over the reproductive, hematological, endocrine and nervous systems. They work closely with the neuralendocrine immune-regulating network. The Kidney essence jing is the material basis for the entire body's yin and yang forces, which make the body's physical form and function. The Liver The Liver is the home of Shen, the soul. The Heart is the home of thinking. When our Shen is calm, the Liver is functioning well. It regulates the amount of blood in the circulation, stores and releases blood. The liver is responsible for part of the functions of the endocrine, digestive, circulatory and immune systems. The liver promotes flowing and spreading movements. It is in charge of normal emotional health and the harmony of Chi and blood flow. When the liver keeps everything flowing smoothly, it creates a regulated internal environment resistant to disease. Liver Chi is important for the vitality of all parts of the body. 64

67 FORM 6 MERIDIAN CHI FLOW OPENING THE HEART The natural flow of Chi through the meridian in the body follows a natural rhythm from the feet to the heart, from the chest (heart) to the hands, from the hands to the head, and from the head to the feet. This form also supports a healthy development and maintenance of the Zang organs (Yin organs). 1. Begin in Wuji ready position 2. Inhale, bringing your hands toward the center and up following the Conception Vessel to chest height. Imagine your Chi flowing from your feet to your chest (heart) as you move your hands. 3. Exhale flexing the torso to the left over your hips. Your right hand pushes up and across to the left side over your head, palm down as it stretches overhead to the side. Your left hand pushes down along the side of your leg. 4. Inhale return to center with both hands in front of the chest. 5. Exhale flexing the torso to the right over your hips. Your left hand pushes up and across to the right side over your head, palm down as it stretches overhead to the side.your right hand pushes down along the side of your leg. 6. Inhale, bringing back your torso to the center, expanding your hands and arms into a cross position. 7. Keep Inhaling a bit more as you flex your head and torso back, opening the heart as you push your chest forward. Take moment to savor the happy energy. 8. Exhale allowing your hands to lead your arms in an arc over your head all the way to your forehead, elbows bent, as your torso returns to center. 65

68 9. Inhale moving your hands only one (1) inch up to complete the inhale, in preparation. 10. Exhale as your hands move palm down from the heavens through your Taiji Pole, cleansing stagnated energy out through your feet. Imagine your Chi flowing from your head out through your feet, as you move the hands down in front of your body. Repeat the sequence following steps 2 through 10 for total of 7, 9 or18 cycles. 11. Return to Wuji ready position. 66

69 FORM 7 REACHING AND CONTROLLING EXTERNAL HEART ENERGY Connecting to the Divine external heart initiates tapping into an infinite pool of Chi. Consider two hearts, the human heart (your heart), and the universal heart, the heart of source God, if you will. As you expand, you penetrate into this Divine external heart of God, bringing Divine energy into your own heart. Actually, the two hearts are one, reuniting the origin to the self. This exercise creates a Yin/Yang motion reaching, spreading or expanding (Yang) and pulling, gathering or contracting (Yin) the Chi back, enhancing the circle of protection as it retracts. 1. Begin in Wuji ready position. 2. Walk your feet to a wider stand twice the shoulder width with the feet parallel, pointing to the front. Weight is centered with both hands positioned in front of the Lower Dantian like holding an energy ball. 3. Inhale as you retract the hands with the palm up pointing to the sky. 4. Exhale as you reach with open right hand forward and move your weight over to the left foot extending your right leg. The focus is on the Divine external heart in front of you. Tap into the Divine external heart energy with your arm. 5. Inhale as you retract the right hand guiding the energy in a semicircle, maintaining the palm of the hand upward and open as if you were rubbing the inside of a large keg. Visualize the Divine external heart energy flowing back and into your heart, through the heart meridian entering at the armpit. 6. Do the other side. 7. Exhale as you reach with open left hand forward and slide your weight over the right foot extending your left leg. The focus is on the Divine external heart in front of you. 67

70 8. Inhale as you retract the left hand guiding the energy in a semicircle maintaining the palm of the hand upward and open as if you where rubbing the inside of a large keg. Visualize the Divine external heart energy flowing back and into your heart, through the heart meridian entering at the armpit. 9. Repeat the sequence following steps 3 through 7 for total of 7, 9 or 18 cycles. 10. Return to Wuji ready position. Notice the rotation of the shoulders ending in a perpendicular position to the stance. Focus on reaching out and forward. letting the rotation complete, rotating all vertebrae of the spine in each direction. 68

71 FORM 8 TONIFICATION AND REGULATION OF THE KIDNEY 1. Begin in Wuji ready position. 2. Walk your feet to a wider stance, twice the shoulder width, with the feet parallel, pointing to the front. Weight is centered, with both hands positioned in front of the Lower Dantian like holding an energy ball. 3. Inhale, raising your arms in front, arms bent and palms up, into the armpits, palm upward. 4. Exhale, relaxing the shoulders. 5. Inhale, holding the position in preparation for the following move. 6. Exhale and shift the weight to the left. As the left hand wraps around the back, resting the back of the hand on top of the right Kidney, the right palm extends towards the left direction. 7. Inhale as the right palm, facing outward towards the left direction, begins to circle upwards in front of the face at eye level. As the palm begins to move, the eyes watch the back of the right hand. 8. Shift the weight towards the right side of the body and begin leaning towards the right direction. The eyes continue to follow the right palm as it begins to circle downwards in front of the body. Exhale while shifting the weight towards the left. 9. As the weight shifts, bend the knees, and begin to lean over. While continuing to exhale, imagine scooping water with the right palm. Bend at the hips and scoop with the right arm. Keep the back relaxed and straight. 69

72 10. Inhale allowing the right arm to follow the motion of the body, begin rising up slightly while turning, forming an arc in front of the torso. As the palm rises, imagine the energy (which has been scooped into the arm) draining down the right arm across the left shoulders and down the left arm into the right Kidney. Start the other side. 11. Exhale and shift the weight to the right. As the right hand wraps around the back, resting its back on top of the left Kidney, the left palm extends towards the right direction. 12. Inhale as the left palm, facing outward towards the right direction, begins to circle upwards in front of the face at eye level. As the palm begins to move, the eyes watch the back of the left palm. 13. Shift the weight towards the left side of the body and begin leaning towards the left direction. The eyes continue to follow the left palm as it begins to circle downwards in front of the body. Exhale while shifting the weight towards the right. 14. As the weight shifts, bend the knees, and begin to lean over. While continuing to exhale, imagine scooping water with the left palm. Bend at the waist and scoop with the left arm. Keep the back relaxed and straight. 70

73 15. Inhale allowing the left arm to follow the motion of the body, begin rising up slightly while turning, forming an arc in front of the torso. As the palm rises, imagine the energy (which has been scooped into the arm) draining down the left arm across the right shoulders and down the right arm into the right Kidney. Start the other side. 16. Repeat the sequence following steps 6 through 15 for a total of 7, 9 or 18 cycles. 17. Return to Wuji ready position. 71

74 FORM 9 TONIFICATION AND REGULATION OF THE HEART 1. Begin in Wuji ready position. 2. Walk your feet to a wider stance, twice shoulder width, with feet parallel pointing to the front. Weight is centered with both hands positioned in front of the Lower Dantian like holding an energy ball. 3. Inhale bring your arms in front of the body at the level of the abdomen. 4. Exhale relaxing the shoulders. 5. Imagine the hands embracing a ball, inhale while placing the right hand on top and the left hand on bottom. 6. Exhale and twist the hips to the left, while simultaneously raising the left hand to the side, and extend the right hand down towards the left. Continue pressing until both hands extend to the furthest point. 7. Inhale and turn the right palm upwards to face the sky as the body twists back to the center, allowing the right hand to end up in front of the navel. 8. Inhale as the left hand simultaneously turns so that the palm faces the center of the right hand, following it to the center line of the body. 9. As the body reaches the point where it faces forward, twist to the right side and push in the same manner while exhaling. 10. Repeat the sequence following steps 4 through 8 for a total of 7, 9 or 18 cycles. 11. Return to Wuji ready position. 72

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