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Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa: A Pathway to Health and NeiDan

Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

History of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa, which translates to the “Method of True Qi Circulation,” is a deeply refined practice with roots in Daoist internal cultivation, specifically the tradition of NeiDan or internal alchemy. The method was developed and refined over 60 years by Dr Li Shao Bo, a renowned Daoist practitioner and teacher. His work aimed to offer a practical and accessible path to health and longevity, blending the ancient principles of Daoist energy cultivation with modern insights into health and wellness.

Dr Li Shao Bo was born into a family with a rich martial arts and Daoist philosophy tradition. From an early age, he studied under various Daoist masters, learning the intricate practices of Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and NeiDan. His primary teacher, however, was his father, who introduced him to the foundational principles of energy cultivation and longevity practices. After decades of study and practice, Dr Li sought to codify a method accessible to both seasoned practitioners and beginners, drawing on the ancient wisdom of Daoist alchemical traditions while adapting it for modern life.

In Daoist philosophy, Qi is considered the vital life force that permeates the universe and animates all living things. The cultivation and circulation of this energy through the body are central to many Daoist practices that promote physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual development. The ancient Daoists believed that by refining and guiding the body’s Qi, practitioners could achieve enhanced physical vitality, spiritual enlightenment, and even immortality—a state referred to in Daoist texts as “becoming a Xian,” or an enlightened immortal.

Historically, the origins of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa can be traced back to the foundational texts of Daoism, such as the Tao Te Ching and the Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine). These texts highlight the importance of maintaining balance and harmony within the body and the environment, often through regulating breath, posture, and intention. The circulation of Qi is a key element in this balance, and Daoist practitioners have long understood the importance of connecting body, breath, and mind to enhance health and well-being.

The practice of NeiDan, also known as internal alchemy, focuses on transforming the body’s subtle energies and refining Qi to create a higher form of spiritual energy. This process is metaphorically likened to turning base metals into gold, symbolising the transmutation of the practitioner’s ordinary self into an enlightened being. Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa serves as an introductory pathway to this deeper alchemical process, offering a practical method for cultivating health, balance, and longevity through the regulation of breath and the circulation of Qi.

Dr Li Shao Bo, having witnessed the profound effects of Qi cultivation in his own life and the lives of his students, devoted his later years to teaching and spreading the benefits of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa. He believed this method could bridge the ancient and modern worlds, enabling people from all walks of life to experience the transformative power of Daoist internal cultivation. Over the decades, he refined the method, ensuring it was accessible to practitioners of all levels while maintaining the integrity of the ancient Daoist principles on which it was founded.

Dr Li’s teachings highlight not only the physical benefits of the practice but also its potential for emotional and spiritual transformation. By aligning body, breath, and mind, Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa practitioners can achieve a state of deep internal harmony, cultivating health and a heightened awareness of their connection to the natural world. The practice fosters mindfulness, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being—principles deeply rooted in Daoism’s holistic view of life.

Today, Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa continues to be practised by thousands of people around the world. It remains an important part of Daoist health cultivation, taught in various schools and lineages, and is considered a powerful tool for self-healing and spiritual growth. While its foundations lie in ancient Daoist texts and traditions, its relevance in today’s fast-paced world is ever-growing as more individuals seek to cultivate peace, balance, and vitality amidst modern life’s pressures.

Dr Li Shao Bo’s legacy lives on through his students and the many practitioners who continue to follow his teachings, finding in them a means to unlock their potential and maintain health and longevity. The Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa method emphasises patience, natural development, and the harmonious integration of mind and body. It serves as a timeless guide for anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of life energy and explore the profound wisdom of Daoism.

三大阶段 – The Three Stages of Practice

The True Qi Circulation Method consists of three key stages of internal alchemy, with each stage building upon the other to guide the practitioner from the physical transformation of vital energy to spiritual transcendence. Each stage incorporates specific steps from the Five-Step Method, marking milestones in cultivating and refining the body’s internal energies (Jing, Qi, and Shen).

炼精化气 (Liàn Jīng Huà Qì) – Refining Essence and Transforming Qi

This is the foundational stage where the practitioner learns to refine Jing (Essence) and transform it into Qi (Vital Energy). The Lower Dantian, located just below the navel, plays a central role in this transformation as it stores and nurtures Jing, preparing it for conversion into Qi.

Purpose: To regulate the breath, focus the mind, and cultivate the energy in the Dantian. This stage harmonises the practitioner’s breath with their mental focus, building the foundation for further cultivation.

Key Techniques:

Benefits: Through this stage, practitioners experience increased physical vitality, improved health, and enhanced resistance to illness. The transformation of Jing into Qi serves as the energy base for deeper spiritual work  .

炼气化神 (Liàn Qì Huà Shén) – Refining Qi and Transforming the Spirit

The second stage focuses on further refining Qi and elevating it to Shen (Spirit), which resides in the Upper Dantian. As Qi ascends through the Du Meridian (spine), it nourishes the brain, fostering spiritual awareness and mental clarity.

Purpose: To refine Qi and direct it upward to the brain, nourishing the mind and spirit and enhancing spiritual awareness.

Key Techniques:

Benefits: As the practitioner progresses, they experience sharper mental focus, inner peace, and improved cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and insight. Emotional balance is also enhanced as the Qi refines into spiritual energy  . This phase is often called “Refining Qi and Transforming Spirit” because it focuses on spiritual elevation and mental clarity.

炼神还虚 (Liàn Shén Huán Xū) – Refining the Spirit and Returning to Emptiness

The final stage culminates in the transformation of Shen (Spirit) back into Xu (Void or Emptiness). In this advanced stage, the practitioner transcends the physical and energetic bodies, merging with the Dao. This stage represents spiritual unity and ultimate detachment from the self and the material world.

Purpose: To refine the Spirit and merge it with the Dao, returning to a state of unity with the cosmos and dissolving the boundaries between self and the universe.

Key Techniques:

Benefits: Practitioners experience profound inner peace, clarity, and a sense of unity with the cosmos. The body’s systems are in full harmony, and the mind is calm, like still water. This stage, known as “Refining the Spirit and Returning to Emptiness,” leads to a spiritual awakening that transcends the limitations of the physical body and mind  .

The Five-Step Method in Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

The Five-Step Method is the core framework of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa. This method offers a structured pathway for cultivating Qi and advancing through increasingly deeper levels of practice.

Relaxation (松 – Sōng)

The first step involves achieving a state of deep physical and mental relaxation. This relaxed state is necessary to ensure the free flow of Qi through the body. Tension, whether physical or emotional, blocks energy circulation, so relaxation is a fundamental starting point.

Regulation of Breath (调息 – Tiáo Xī)

Once relaxation is achieved, the next step is to regulate the breath. Breath is the vehicle for Qi; by controlling it, you begin to guide energy through the body.

Guiding the Mind (意 – Yì)

The mind plays a crucial role in directing Qi within the body. In this step, you learn to use intention (Yì) to guide the breath and Qi into specific areas, particularly the Lower Dantian.

Circulation of Qi (运气 – Yùn Qì)

With the breath and mind synchronised, Qi can now circulate freely through the meridians. This step aims to guide the Qi to flow smoothly and continuously throughout the body’s energy channels.

Harmonizing Body and Mind (合一 – Hé Yī)

The final step involves harmonising the body, mind, and Qi into one integrated system. When body, breath, and mind are in harmony, Qi flows freely, and the practitioner achieves balance and unity.

Postures for Practice in Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

The practice of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa can be performed in various postures, each suited for different situations and levels of practice. While sitting is the most common posture, other forms, such as standing, and lying down, also have specific benefits. The key is maintaining a posture that allows for relaxation, proper breath flow, and focus on the Dantian.

Sitting Posture (坐式)

The seated posture is the most frequently used for Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa. Several variations of seated positions include sitting on a chair and sitting with legs crossed.

How to Sit:

Standing Posture (站式)

Standing postures are often used to assist seated practice and are good for encouraging the free flow of Qi throughout the body.

How to Stand:

Lying Down Posture (卧式)

Lying down postures are used when sitting or standing is difficult or when the practitioner needs to rest. They are also useful for practising Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa before sleeping.

How to Lie Down:

Choosing the Right Posture

Each posture has its unique benefits, and the choice of posture depends on your specific needs and physical condition during practice. Here are some general guidelines:
Seated Postures are best for long, focused sessions. They offer stability and a strong foundation for deeper meditation.

The key to success in any posture is maintaining a relaxed body and a calm mind, as well as focusing on the breath and Dantian. Adjust your posture to remain comfortable and allow Qi to flow freely.

Detailed Breathing Techniques in Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

Breathing is the foundation of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa, and proper breath cultivation is essential for circulating Qi through the body. Each breath cycle should be long, smooth, and gentle, fostering a harmonious relationship between breath, Qi, and awareness.

The Nature of Breath in Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

Sinking the Breath

Abdominal and Reverse Abdominal Breathing: A Detailed Guide

In True Qi Circulation, both abdominal breathing and reverse abdominal breathing are employed to move and guide Qi (vital energy) through the body. Understanding the difference between these two breathing techniques is crucial for advancing through the various stages of the practice. Although both methods can be used for all stages, it is normal for the breathing to change as the training progresses.

Abdominal Breathing (腹式呼吸)

Abdominal breathing is the foundation of the breathing techniques used in the early stages of True Qi Circulation. It focuses on natural, relaxed breathing, where the abdomen expands on the inhale and contracts on the exhale, allowing for smooth Qi flow.

How to Practice Abdominal Breathing

  1. Inhale: As you breathe in, let your abdomen expand naturally. Feel the breath filling your lower lungs, causing the diaphragm to push down and the abdomen to rise slightly.
  2. Exhale: As you exhale, let your abdomen contract as the air is released from the lungs. The diaphragm rises, pushing air out of the lungs, and the abdomen falls.
  3. Focus: During abdominal breathing, focus on relaxation and allowing the breath to flow smoothly without force. You should aim for deep, even breaths that promote calmness and help collect Qi in the lower parts of the body, particularly the Dantian.

When to Use Abdominal Breathing:
Abdominal breathing is primarily used in the early stages of True Qi Circulation (Stages 1 and 2). These stages help collect and settle Qi in the heart cavity (Middle Dantian) and the Lower Dantian. Abdominal breathing lays the groundwork for deeper energy work, creating the foundation of stillness and focus for further stages.

Benefits of Abdominal Breathing:

Reverse Abdominal Breathing (逆腹式呼吸)

Reverse abdominal breathing is used in the later stages of True Qi Circulation, particularly when more advanced energy work is needed, such as raising the Qi along the Du Meridian. This technique focuses on the opposite movement of the abdomen during inhalation and exhalation.

How to Practice Reverse Abdominal Breathing

  1. Inhale: As you breathe, contract the abdomen by gently pulling it inward toward the spine. At the same time, lift the Huiyin (perineum) slightly by contracting the pelvic floor muscles. This movement helps direct the breath and energy upward.
  2. Exhale: As you exhale, expand the abdomen outward, releasing the contraction and allowing the Huiyin to relax. The Qi settling in the Dantian.
  3. Focus: In reverse abdominal breathing, focus on controlling the abdominal muscles to guide the movement of Qi more actively. This technique raises the Qi upward along the Du Meridian and strengthens the internal energy system.

When to Use Reverse Abdominal Breathing:
Reverse abdominal breathing is used in the later stages of True Qi Circulation (Stages 3, 4, and 5). It is particularly useful in Stages 3 and 4, where the goal is to protect the energy in the Dantian and raise the Qi along the spine through the Du Meridian. It is a more active form of breath control than abdominal breathing and is used to strengthen the energy flow in the body.

Benefits of Reverse Abdominal Breathing:

Comparing Abdominal and Reverse Abdominal Breathing

Both abdominal breathing and reverse abdominal breathing are essential techniques in True Qi Circulation. They serve distinct purposes at different stages of the practice, guiding the practitioner from energy collection in the early stages to advanced energy circulation and spiritual development in the later stages. Mastering both techniques is key to cultivating Qi and reaching higher physical and spiritual well-being.

The Five Stages

Stage 1: Exhale and Focus on the Solar Plexus (Epigastrium) (呼气注意心窝部)

Overview

Imagine the first step as a gentle beginning, like a seed waiting to grow. You sit quietly, your mind calm, and your focus rests on the solar plexus (Epigastrium), the space between the chest and abdomen, where the Qi starts its journey. As you exhale, you allow your attention to descend, following the breath. Slowly, your Solar Plexus begins to warm, as if the seed has started to take root in the earth, its warmth representing the life energy gathering in this vital centre. The breath becomes the water that nurtures the seed, allowing it to soak in nourishment without force.

In this stage, the true Qi begins to awaken within, but it remains subtle and nascent. As the warmth grows, you feel your Solar Plexus relax, and energy settles downward. This is the preparation for a deeper journey, where the scattered thoughts of daily life start to fade, allowing stillness to settle.

How to Practice

Time Required

Signs of Completion

Benefits

Stage 2: The Mind and Breath Follow Each Other to the Lower Dantian (意息相随丹田趋)

Overview

As the seed grows, it seeks the rich soil below, just as your attention moves to the Dantian, the lower abdomen, which becomes the fertile ground where your energy will gather. The mind and breath work harmoniously, guiding the Qi further downward into the Dantian with each exhale.

In this step, the warmth that you once felt in your heart cavity now travels along the Ren Meridian, descending naturally and easily into the Dantian, as if the roots of the seed are spreading deeper into the earth. The Dantian, like a reservoir, begins to fill with this life energy. The process is unhurried, and you allow the natural movement of the breath to lead the Qi without forcing it. As this happens, you may feel subtle changes in your body as the digestive organs and other systems come to life with renewed energy.

How to Practice

Time Required

Signs of Completion

Benefits

Stage 3: Adjust Breath, Collect the Spirit, and Protect the Dantian (调息凝神守丹田)

Overview

With the Dantian full of energy, the seed within begins to sprout. Instead of focusing on the exhale, your attention shifts inward toward the Dantian itself, protecting the energy you have gathered. In this stage, the breath becomes smooth, deep, and long as the Qi stabilises and strengthens within the Dantian.

You no longer need to guide the Qi actively with your breath. Instead, you sit in stillness, allowing the energy to build and strengthen. Like the sprout, the spirit is now carefully nurtured, resting within the Dantian. This step represents a deeper state of calm, where the energy feels steady, warm, and nourishing, quietly supporting the body. As the Qi fills the Dantian, it influences the kidneys, heart, and other organs, enhancing their function and overall health.

How to Practice

Time Required

About one month, with sessions lasting at least 30 minutes each, three or more times daily.

Signs of Completion

Benefits

Stage 4: Connect the Du Meridian, Do Not Forget or Assist (通督勿忘复勿助)

Overview

As the seed grows into a plant, it reaches upward toward the sky. Now full and powerful, the Qi in your Dantian rises naturally along the Du Meridian, travelling up the spine toward the head. In this stage, your role is to allow this movement without interfering. You observe the energy as it ascends but do not force it; if the Qi pauses, you let it rest, trusting that it will continue when ready.

This is a critical moment in your practice as the connection between the Dantian and the brain—the Du Meridian—begins to open. Just as the plant reaches for sunlight, the energy rises to nourish the brain, clearing blockages and enhancing your mental clarity. You may feel a lightness or a sensation of movement at the top of your head, signalling that the Qi is circulating fully through the body’s central channel.

How to Practice

Time Required

Signs of Completion

Benefits

Stage 5: The Original Spirit Cultivates Strength and Raises the Life System (元神蓄力育生机)

Overview

The plant has matured, fully rooted in the earth and open to the sky, its growth becoming more refined and subtle. Your Qi flows smoothly between the Dantian and the Baihui (the crown of the head), creating a continuous circuit known as the Small Heavenly Orbit. With the Du and Ren Meridians connected, your practice nourishes the original spirit (元神). The energy that once moved within you now becomes quiet and deeply still, and your awareness turns to maintaining this balance effortlessly.

In this final stage, your breath becomes so light and natural that it feels almost imperceptible. The spirit within you, now cultivated and full of vitality, creates a sense of deep calm, health, and inner strength. The body and mind reach a state of harmony where movement and stillness coexist. You experience life with a heightened sense of clarity, your inner vitality nurtured and strong, and your connection to the deeper rhythms of existence becomes more profound.

The ultimate purpose of this practice is longevity and the return to simplicity, where the cultivated Qi brings health, balance, and harmony, allowing you to move through life with ease and clarity.

How to Practice

Time Required

Signs of Completion

Differences in the Practice Between Men and Women in Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

The practice of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa offers a structured approach for both men and women. However, there are notable differences in specific stages and considerations for each gender, especially during certain life phases like menstruation and pregnancy.

Women’s Practice Adjustments

Menstruation

Pregnancy

Men’s Practice Considerations

Sexual Activity

By understanding these gender-specific adjustments, practitioners can better manage their energy flow and tailor their practices for optimal health and spiritual growth.

FAQ for Practicing Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa

Below are common questions raised in the practice of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa, with answers drawn from detailed instructions and practitioners’ experiences.

1. Can I practice Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa if I have experience with other exercises?

Answer: Yes, you can. However, it’s important not to mix exercises. Keep the practices distinct to avoid confusion and potential energy disruptions.

2. How does sexual life affect the practice?

Answer: Sexual life does impact the practice. It is advised to regulate sexual activity, particularly before reaching higher stages of practice, as excessive indulgence can delay energy circulation and customs clearance. For those who haven’t cleared their energy pathways, it’s important to exercise restraint.

3. Are there any taboos or conditions under which I should avoid practising?

Answer: Yes, avoid practising when emotionally upset (e.g., angry, shocked), when very hungry or full, or during extreme weather conditions. The body and energy may be imbalanced in these states, interfering with the practice.

4. Can women practice during menstruation?

Answer: During menstruation, it is recommended not to focus on the Dantian, as this can affect the menstrual flow, potentially leading to prolonged periods. Instead, women can focus on the heart (Middle Dantian) during menstruation. Pregnant women should avoid focusing on Dantian altogether.

5. Can postures be changed during practice?

Answer: You can adjust your posture as needed to maintain comfort and ease during practice. The key is to keep the body relaxed and avoid any forced or uncomfortable positions.

6. What should I do at the end of the practice to “collect power”?

Answer: There is no need to collect power actively. Simply relax by rubbing your hands together and gently washing your face at the end of your practice. This helps to smooth the energy flow and brings a sense of closure to the session.

7. Where is the “heart fossa” located?

Answer: The heart fossa refers to the area around the Juque point, approximately five inches below the sternum’s xiphoid process. This area encompasses the entire region of the heart and stomach.

8. I’ve gathered energy in the Dantian, but now I can’t feel it. Why?

Answer: The Dantian is a large energy centre. Initially, it feels noticeable because it’s not fully open. The energy flows more smoothly as it opens, and the sensation may lessen or disappear. This is normal and indicates that the Qi is circulating effectively.

9. What if I feel the urge to fart during practice?

Answer: It is normal to experience increased bowel movements in the second practice stage. From the third stage onwards, more control over the perineum is needed to prevent energy loss.

10. Can I continue practising after “clearing customs” (completing a significant energy cycle)?

Answer: After completing the five steps, continue focusing on the Dantian for further energy cultivation. Although you’ve passed a significant milestone, ongoing practice will deepen your progress.

11. What should I do if I experience a strong upward rush of energy but can’t continue to the next stage?

Answer: If the energy is strong but seems blocked, focus on the Mingmen point (Life Gate) at the lower back. This can help ease the energy upward along the spine.

12. What is the best posture for practice?

Answer: The best posture is the most comfortable for you, whether sitting cross-legged or on a chair. The key is to remain stable and relaxed throughout the practice.

13. Is it okay to speak loudly or energetically after practice?

Answer: It’s best to avoid speaking loudly or energetically after practice, as this can deplete the energy you’ve cultivated. Instead, speak softly and rest to allow your body to integrate the practice.

14. Can I practice Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa without a teacher?

Answer: Yes, it is possible to practice without a teacher by carefully following the instructions in texts like the manual. However, reaching out for guidance if you encounter difficulties can be beneficial.

15. How long should I practice to see results?

Answer: Typically, it takes about three months of regular practice to pass through the energy pathways (Ren and Du Meridians). Consistency is key, and even after reaching significant milestones, ongoing practice is essential for continued growth.

Disclaimer

Like all forms of internal cultivation, the practice of Zhen Qi Yun Xing Fa is undertaken at the individual’s own risk. The information provided here is collated from several texts, teachings, and personal experiences gained through time in practice. It is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for guidance from a qualified instructor. Practitioners are encouraged to listen to their bodies, proceed with caution, and consult with a professional if they experience any adverse effects or have specific health concerns.

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