Shaolin Qi gong: The Secret Six Forms of Yi Jin Jing

The Mysterious and Powerful Shaolin Kung Fu

We often see people practicing Yi Jin Jing in a way that seems simple, primarily focusing on stretching tendons and muscles. This perception arises because the authentic Yi Jin Jing has been largely lost to history. The original Yi Jin Jing consisted of 18 forms, with the first 12 being widely circulated today. However, the last six forms are the essence of the practice. These advanced forms are the core training methods of Yi Jin Jing, yielding results several times more effective than the initial 12 forms, albeit with greater difficulty. This course fully and openly shares the training methods and precautions for these final six forms.

Introduction

Yi Jin Jing (易筋经) is a cultural treasure of the Chinese people. Its techniques and movements reflect the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in understanding human life. Regular practice of Yi Jin Jing can help prevent illness, enhance fitness, and even treat existing conditions. The Ancient Yi Jin Jing is characterized by a strong sense of energy (qi), rapid results, and a comprehensive approach that nourishes both the body and mind, achieving harmony of physical and spiritual health. Its benefits include warding off illness, prolonging life, and unlocking potential abilities.

From a TCM perspective, Yi Jin Jing guides the flow of qi and blood through the body by aligning movements with meridian pathways. During the twists, stretches, and coordinated hand and foot movements, the body’s energy channels are opened, leading to smoother circulation and enhanced vitality. From a modern medical standpoint, practicing Yi Jin Jing improves blood flow, enhances organ function, and promotes overall health.

A Practice for Mind and Body

Cultivating the Mind

Mindfulness and emotional balance are essential for longevity. The ancient Chinese text Book of Rites: Doctrine of the Mean states, “Great virtue leads to longevity.” Those with high moral standards, who act with integrity and remain open-minded and optimistic, often enjoy mental tranquility, balanced qi, and stable physiological functions, resulting in health and longevity. Cultivating the mind involves maintaining a calm and peaceful state, avoiding conflicts with oneself or others, and embracing a balanced outlook on life. Emotional equilibrium—keeping joy, anger, sadness, and pleasure in check—is crucial for optimal bodily functions. No amount of supplements can replace the benefits of a calm and happy heart.

Strengthening the Body

Yi Jin Jing emphasizes stretching and strengthening the body. The saying goes, “A longer tendon adds three more years of life.” This practice improves flexibility, promotes qi and blood circulation, and stimulates organ function. Techniques such as tapping acupoints, deep breathing, and stretching activate the body’s systems, enhance digestion and sleep, balance yin and yang, and even boost kidney health. Men can experience improved circulation, enhanced strength, and restored penile function, while women benefit from pelvic muscle toning and improved vaginal tightness.

Benefits and Effects

Boosted Energy

Regular practice improves sleep quality, uplifts mood, enhances appetite, alleviates anxiety, clears the mind, and fills the practitioner with vitality and energy.

Strengthened Immunity and Disease Management

Yi Jin Jing supports overall health by enhancing the immune system and alleviating chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, fatigue, and reproductive health issues. While it is not a replacement for medication, it complements medical treatments and improves overall wellbeing.

Balanced Yin-Yang and Radiant Appearance

The practice opens up meridians, detoxifies the body, nourishes the skin, and balances qi and blood. It enhances core strength, stimulates circulation in the lower abdomen, and promotes kidney function, achieving yin-yang balance and revitalizing the body. For men, it reduces penile sensitivity and improves ejaculatory control; for women, it tones the pelvic muscles for a tighter vaginal canal.

Extended Longevity

Consistent Yi Jin Jing practice is known to promote longevity. Anecdotal evidence from traditional practitioners highlights an average lifespan of 90 years among those who dedicated themselves to its study and practice.

Yi Jin Jing’s six advanced forms embody the essence of ancient wisdom, offering profound physical and mental benefits to dedicated practitioners. Whether you seek health, balance, or spiritual growth, these forms provide an unparalleled pathway to inner and outer transformation.