In Daoism, it is believed that the human form is a microcosm of nature. As rivers flow into the oceans and lakes on the earth, meridians connect to the organs in a human body. Sometimes, however, there might be obstacles on the path of the river, and stagnation will start to develop. If the river is not able to break through these obstacles, it will find an alternative pathway that may have negative impact on the nature. Likewise, in the human body, if meridians have any blockages, essential nutrition, oxygen and the Qi energy that the organs need for proper functioning cannot flow freely to the organs. Thus, stagnation will eventually cause health issues.
Qigong training practice can help to remove stagnation by pumping the Qi through the meridian pathways through pulsing. This pulse of energy is created through the coordination of breath, intention and dynamic Qigong movements.
Four Gate Breathing – Coordination of the Breath with the Intention
Four Gate breathing technique promotes a circulation of the Qi energy through the meridians and the body. Four Gates are the palms and feet, where the meridian pathways end up. While doing this Qigong breathing practice, you should naturally inhale into the Dan Tian, and, while exhaling intentionally guide the flow of the Qi energy from the Dan Tian to the palm centers (Lao Gong points) and the centers of the bottom of the feet (Yong Quan points), creating a pulse of the Qi.
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Coordination of the Breath with the Qigong Movements
In order to create a stronger pulse, breathing should be correctly synchronized with the Qigong movements. Exhale when you do contractions or inward movements and inhale while you do stretching or expand your chest. You should really try to feel the pull and stretch along the meridians from your fingerprints to your toes. Depending on what Qigong training forms you do, you can feel different pulses of energy:
- Contraction
- Stretching
- Coolness
- Hotness
- Floating
- Sinking
- Hardening
- Softening
These are the eight foundational pulses. However, during Qigong training, you can experience other variations as well.
Creation of pulsating Qi circulation is the core of Medical Qigong practice. Once you learn how to create this pulse, you will be able to clear away any energy stagnation in your body. The fresh Qi will flow freely healing your organs and promoting health and longevity of your body.