Yi Jin Jing is a classic set of Qigong exercises from Ancient China dating back more than 2,000 years. Consisting of 12 special exercises which today are known as the Yi Jin Jing.
This Qigong health practice traces its origins back more that 2,000 years, incorporating the traditional Chinese medicine theory of the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire and earth) with the Dao-Yin method of practice.
In around 525 AD an Indian Buddhist Monk named Bodhidharma developed a set of health building exercises in order that the Monks of the now Shaolin temple could practice limbering up exercises to help with their meditation practices. As the years passed the Shaolin Monks learned to modify and perfect these exercises to eventually form the set of exercises which are known today as the Yi Jin Jing. As with all life enhancement exercises (Yang Sheng) the focus is on the cultivation of Qi and optimal function of internal organs.
The Yi Jin Jing strengthens the body, incorporating tendon stretching, bone flexing with natural breathing combined with fluidity and strength, improving muscle balance and co-ordination. The Yi Jin Jing can be practiced by all ages and is known to have remarkable effects on general health and stamina. Practiced regularly Yi Jin Jing can even reduce the signs of ageing, thus prolonging life.
Did you know?
- According to ledgend Bodhidarma was the founded of Zen Bhuddhism in China
- Bodhidarhma was the originator of the Shaolin martial arts tradition
- Yi– means change, Jin– means tendons, Jing– means method