How to Do the Exercise Yan Jing Yi Shen Gong

Yan jing yi shen gong, also commonly referred to as qi gong, is a Chinese healing modality designed to affect the energy systems of the body. Dr. Roger Jahnke, OMD, has referred to yan jing yi shen gong or qi gong as "dynamic meditation." While movement is incorporated, the focus and intent remains on the energy of the body not the physical structures. The more widely recognized tai chi is somewhat based on yan jing yi shen gong.

Things You'll Need

  • Comfortable clothing that allows full movement
  • Nonslip flooring
  • Adequate space to maneuver
  • Quiet, distraction-free environment
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select from the thousands of yan jing yi shen gong movements and forms that are most suited to remedy any deficiencies in your personal qi system. Consult a yan jing yi shen gong master for guidance, if necessary, to identify those movements that would be best for your current energetic status. Remember to revise these movements periodically as your energy needs change.

    • 2

      Wear comfortable clothing and find a quiet area that is free from distractions. Make sure the area is large enough to allow you to move your fully extended arms and take a few small steps in all directions.

    • 3

      Begin your yan jing yi shen gong physical movements by calming your thoughts and breathing slowly and mindfully. Focus on the feeling of energy between your hands as you begin the first movements. Notice the intensity and quality of energy that you feel emanating from the center of your body.

    • 4

      Integrate deep breathing techniques with your yan jing yi shen gong physical movements, if possible. If you are unable to concentrate fully on both breathing and movement, it may be necessary for you to pause briefly between sections and focus on breathing. Breath from the abdominal area rather than from higher in the chest to facilitate the mental state necessary for recognizing and manipulating your qi. Maintain a very slow and deliberate pace with your movements so that your breathing does not become labored.

    • 5

      Enter into a meditative state, mentally focusing on the presence, ebb and flow of your body's energy rather than any external distractions. Pursue the goal of reaching the calm, parasympathetic psychological state and leaving the active and frequently more agitated sympathetic state behind.

    • 6

      Contemplate the abundance or scarcity of energy in different areas of your body, particularly those where health issues have manifested. Mentally remove obstructions and gently guide your qi to normalized levels in all areas of your body.