Thrice Daily

well ahead of his time wasn't he.

I believe you. I resonate. Blessings.

The first printed Yijinjing text looks to have appeared in the 1624 edition of "Internal Training Illustrations" (Neigong Tushuo) by Taoist priest Zining. I think I found it here, it is all in Chinese though... Neigong Tushuo Okay, the next source is an interesting one, I've looked at is The "Ten Compilations on Cultivating Perfection" (Xiuzhen Shishu), it's a Daoist encyclopedia compiled during the Ming Dynasty in the early 1600s, it included sections on physical exercises similar to Yijinjing, although it did not directly label them as such. Here is a breakdown of some of the relevant sections in which physical and internal practices look to be highlighted: Master Bai's Chart for Fire Phase of Golden Elixir (白先生金丹火候圖 Bai Xiansheng Jindan Huohou Tu) This text focuses on the "fire phases," which relate to energy cultivation and management, including physical postures and breath control practices. While not solely about physical exercise, it provides foundational principles for how to manage internal energy through both physical and mental practices. Master Xishan's Song of Nourishing Life and the Preface (衛生歌並序 Weisheng Ge Bing Xu) This work is more explicitly connected with "nourishing life" (weisheng), which in Daoist practice includes physical health exercises, breathwork, and lifestyle habits. It likely provides insights into physical exercises and methods of maintaining vitality. Shi Tai's Chapter on Returning To Origin (還源篇 Huanyuan Pian) While primarily an alchemical and spiritual text, it involves practices related to returning to the source, which includes harmonizing the body through methods such as regulated breathing and physical alignment as part of "returning to origin." Zhang Boduan's On Realizing Perfection (悟真篇 Wu Zhen Pian) This work is a classic in internal alchemy but also references stages of physical and spiritual transformation needed to reach an ideal state. Zhang Boduan's teachings often involve bodily alignment with internal energy practices. Song of Elixir Formulae (丹訣歌 Danjue Ge) and Xue Daoguang's Rhythmic Formula of the Elixir Essence (丹髓歌 Dansui Ge) These are poetic compositions focused on the internal rhythms of alchemical practices, often including references to physical cultivation methods necessary to cultivate the "elixir" within the body, possibly including standing or seated meditation postures. Song of Appreciating Dao (樂道歌 Le Dao Ge) This is a Daoist song that celebrates the Dao and discusses methods of living in harmony with it, which traditionally includes both physical and mental practices. Physical alignment and cultivation of bodily health are implied in the journey to Daoist wisdom. Key Takeaway For explicit physical cultivation, Master Xishan's Song of Nourishing Life and the Preface (Weisheng Ge Bing Xu) likely contains the most practical information on health and longevity practices directly involving the body. Other texts, such as Master Bai's Chart for Fire Phase of Golden Elixir and Shi Tai's Chapter on Returning To Origin, indirectly address physical cultivation within a broader alchemical framework. Certainly looks like something to get into the weeds of later...Looks like a fantastic document and hopefully I'll be able to find the relevant selections to get into... Last but not least, "The Essence of Shaolin" (Shaolin Zhen Chuan) might be worth a look, it's a text that circulated by the late 1600s, referenced Yijinjing as part of Shaolin exercises. The text emphasized Shaolin practices that blended martial arts with health exercises. I couldn't really track this down as one particular manual, I did find a good webpage that led me to Ming Dynasty military training though, quite interesting and updated recently. More about weapons training though as I say... can read here is you like,,, GREAT MING MILITARY This 少林禅功柔拳 · Shaolin Chan Gong Rou Quan (Soft Fist) caught my interest along the way, it’s not Jijinjing but a great form... There is a nice article on it that can be read here ... Changong Rouquan (禪功柔拳) 少林禅功柔拳 (Shaolin Chan Gong Rou Quan), or Shaolin Chan Gong Soft Fist, is a traditional Chinese martial art that blends elements of Shaolin Kung Fu with Chan Buddhism (Zen) principles. The term "柔拳" (Rou Quan) translates to "Soft Fist," which reflects the internal, fluid, and flexible nature of the style. Unlike the more aggressive and hard techniques seen in some martial arts, Rou Quan emphasizes softness, yielding, and fluidity, which can effectively counteract stronger, more rigid forces.. Key Characteristics of Shaolin Chan Gong Rou Quan: Softness and Flexibility: Practitioners focus on soft, flowing movements that rely on flexibility, yielding, and internal energy (Qi) to control or neutralize an opponent's attacks. Mind-Body Connection: The practice requires deep concentration, where the body and mind work together in unison. Like other Shaolin styles, it integrates breathing techniques and meditation to cultivate inner peace and strength. Application of Force: While the movements may appear soft, they are deceptive in their power. By redirecting an opponent's force, Rou Quan can turn their energy against them in a highly effective and efficient manner. Internal Focus: Similar to other "soft" martial arts like Tai Chi, Rou Quan practitioners focus on internal development, cultivating Qi (life force) and achieving harmony between physical movements and mental concentration. Zen Philosophy: The principles of Zen meditation are integrated into the practice, with emphasis on being fully present in the moment, letting go of ego, and using the martial art as a form of moving meditation. Modern Practice: Although Rou Quan is not as widely practiced as some other forms of Shaolin Kung Fu, it still holds significant importance in traditional Shaolin teachings, particularly for those who wish to deepen their martial arts practice through a combination of physical and spiritual growth. Many modern practitioners of Shaolin Kung Fu incorporate aspects of Shaolin Chan Gong Rou Quan into their training for its focus on internal cultivation, flexibility, and a peaceful mind. The oldest examples of Shaolin Chan Gong Rou Quan (少林禅功柔拳, Soft Fist) would likely date back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279), when the Shaolin Temple became a major center of martial arts and Chan Buddhism. During the Song Dynasty, there was a growing interest in the development of internal martial arts (neijia). These arts emphasized softness, yielding, and internal energy... If you're interested and want to slow down and get into it, this may be a good video to scrutinize... As i'm sure many of you know,,, Dao Yin (导引) refers to Daoist exercises involving breathwork and movement to cultivate qi. This practice repotedly goes back to 200bc or more... Dao Gong (道功) though is a more direct martial expression of these principles and it seems this was popular around the time we are currently looking at (10th to 13th century or so). Many internal martial arts practiced in the Song Dynasty were influenced by Daoism of course, with soft and fluid techniques for improving both health and combat effectiveness. These Daoist practices were also integrated into Shaolin styles during the period, along with more Chan/Zen influences. It seems like its a decent time period to get into and worthy of some attention while developing interest into Yijinjing whether or not it originated from Bodhidharma directly. Zen Buddhism certainly infused into the martial arts and understandablt would have suffused with earlier Taoist leanings in both theory and practice... Well, looking at Dao Gong has led me to discover Liu Pei-Zhong (刘培钟) He was a prominent qigong master (1883-1975) known for his contributions to the practice of Yi Jin Jing , Liu Pei-Zhong is particularly respected for his instructional approach to qigong and his expertise in martial arts. Found a nice a complete video of him showing off his stuff. There are a couple of students also working through their forms, and then at the end of the video an older lady performs a very nice set of Yijinjing, Lots of twisting and bending, perfect for Martial Artist, warmup/recovery... Enjoy... Until tomorrow

Well put, it’s great to see put into words like this 👍

Looking for translation of original text and some early writing from practitioners that had experience and kept notes about their discoveries along the way.

Thanks, I hope to continue to add to this thread , adding more value as my research deepens. I'm taking it slow on here, but I have to say I'm unearthing a wealth of avenues to go down. One thing that is quite strange though, is that, it is hard to find a full translation of Yijinjing anywhere. I did find a copy yesterday on scribed I believe, all in Chinese though. It looks as though there is a translation by Thomas Cleary and that seems to be the only complete one. Othertimes it seems potions of the YJJ have been added to other document (I'll be following up on this later). For now I've found this book that may be useful, Shaolin Qi Gong: Energy in Motion" by Shi Xinggui, although rather modern it look like it is a good source and has plenty written on the energetic and physical aspects of yjj. There is a playlist of the mon performing certain Qigong movements that can be viewed here. I'll be creating a longer post when there is time getting into more writings about YJJ, I'd like to find the actual original and writings closer to the 17th century ideally. Or earlier if they somehow still fit with YJJ principles and practices.., Any ideas, please share, thankyou.

Maybe, I think her heart is in the right place which I think is dead on important with guided meditations. Its basically just progressive relaxation though and it is really only covers the body, and a few wishes about being relaxed and waking up energised and refreshed it’s very much on message. The reason I give it respect is due to the concise use of language by Ally in particular. (She gives away all her recordings for free on YouTube and free to download on her website) it’s concise and the order of detail as to what to relax in sequence in each recording is (to me who has done progressive relaxation over the years) impressive. So it’s just about taking a mental carry through of the body really Lukks, the only side effect is deep relaxation and refreshment. There may be other more esoteric recordings she does but I only listen to sleep and relaxation . It’s very good and safe. have you done other meditations ? past life guided meditations? chakra cleansing? self hypnosis? there are loads of recordings out there , I’d say this Ally stuff is the safest I’ve ever listened to to be fair. Listen with confidence…

I wouldn't actively try to do anything personally. I'm quite the soul exists beyond time and space as do the memories and the 'place' (for want of a better word) communications can come from. I've lost a loved one a couple of years ago. Very precious and unique this person was in my life. When I learned of the passing, I checked my messages on messenger and she had left me a hint , a reflection back to me and a wish I would have made to reconnect with her in some way. I'm sharing it with you as it feels right to do so , I was going to pm it to you, somehow it feels right to wrote it here though so I will. She was dying of cancer at the time and in the messenger chat I hadn't realised how far she was in. She was battling for a long while. ^ months had elapsed since we messaged and when I learned she had passed I was shocked to the core. I looked back over the messages and she was talking about a television series and that I may have reminded her of a character in it, at first I though it was a really old silly sitcom , when I looked it up though it was a netflix thing and although I don't usually watched it I signed up for a month and put it on. It was a message she wanted to leave me with . It was called Original Angel (OA), I'll be honest I was really struggling with her passing. She was taken so early. Well the show really created a lot of space for recollections, introspect and healing, for me. It's a strange series, but I feel compelled to share it. You will understand if you watch it. It's all about life, death and the beyond, in a way that transcends words. If you are a particularly sensitive soul when it comes to tv though you may want to give it a miss. Just felt compelled to share., as it helped me a lot.

Do you think all of this will come full circle? And once again people will develop an interest in these arts? Also the deeper truths and consistencies in these approaches, will they continue to be studied and integrated finally into modern science? I.E. the chi system, the human electrical system and brains abilities to interface with it. Do you think Taiji and Taoist truths will eventually be understood scientific facts and will always have resurgences and developments in the future?

Right I'm starting to see what you mean now I have a deeper read, thankyou for pointing towards it. Makes sense that it came later. Still a valuable text by the looks of things... Hmm yes, makes sense. Now I'm starting to understand why it was so compatible with the sexual training I was doing at the time when I was last focusing on YJJ daily. Also 2-3 hours a day meditation. The three practices together were very compatible. Later I added Shibashi and dropped the long meditation and the three still worked well together for a time. I've had a look and it seems some other works were attributed to him as well; 易筋經 (Yijinjing, or Muscle-Tendon Changing Classic) Though sometimes attributed to Zi Ning Dao Ren, the Yijinjing was likely compiled and adapted from earlier traditions. Zi Ning Dao Ren's influence is noted for introducing Taoist perspectives and practices into the text, differentiating it from strictly Buddhist teachings. 洗髓經 (Xisuijing, or Marrow-Washing Classic) This text, also associated with health and internal cultivation, focuses on advanced practices intended for marrow cleansing and spiritual refinement. While he may not be the original author, Zi Ning Dao Ren is believed to have had a hand in popularizing or reinterpreting it within Taoist circles. 道家养生术 (Daojia Yangsheng Shu, or Taoist Health Preservation Techniques) Although not specifically attributed as a standalone book, writings on Taoist health practices and qigong during the late Ming era often reflect techniques that Zi Ning Dao Ren advocated, emphasizing methods of nourishing life (yangsheng) through breathing exercises, meditation, and movement. 紫凝道人的修真秘法 (Zi Ning Dao Ren’s Secret Methods of Cultivating Truth) (presumed) Texts with similar titles have been attributed to various Taoist masters of the time, and while specific authorship by Zi Ning Dao Ren is difficult to confirm, writings in his name or influenced by his teachings focus on esoteric practices, including energy circulation, visualization, and meditation techniques associated with inner alchemy. 天台山内功法 (Tiantai Mountain Internal Skill Methods) Teachings attributed to Zi Ning Dao Ren often include internal martial arts and meditation methods specific to the Tiantai (Heavenly Terrace) lineage, which is where he practiced and taught. These methods often focus on developing internal energy, refining bodily health, and aligning with Taoist philosophical principles. Interestingly there is a nice playlist on Youtube titled, 天台山紫凝易筋经 Zining Yijinjing Taught at Tiantai Mountain Could it be a style and flavour close to the origin??? click here for whole playlist For further interest in the Alleged Author read on for a short Bio... Zi Ning (紫凝道人), a Taoist sage, remains a somewhat mysterious figure in Chinese history, often referenced in Taoist texts, especially in relation to the Yi Jin Jing (Classic of Muscle and Tendon Changing) and other Taoist practices. Here’s what is known about him: Name and Titles Zi Ning, meaning "Purple Serenity," suggests a Taoist adept embodying stillness and inner peace. The title Dao Ren refers to a Taoist sage, and he is sometimes called "Daoist Zi Ning." Historical Context Zi Ning likely lived during the late Ming Dynasty or early Qing Dynasty (1368–1911), contributing to Taoist internal alchemy (Neidan) and martial practices, particularly through his association with the Yi Jin Jing. His work bridged Taoist philosophy and physical exercises. Association with the Yi Jin Jing and Taoism Zi Ning is credited with promoting the Yi Jin Jing, a text integrating Taoist alchemy with physical practices to cultivate "internal strength" (Neili). His teachings emphasized harmonizing body, energy, and spirit, core Taoist principles. The Yi Jin Jing is also foundational in Taoist martial arts. Role in Taoist Spirituality Beyond martial arts, Zi Ning contributed philosophical insights on self-cultivation, tranquility, and Qi (vital energy). His teachings emphasized living in harmony with nature and the universe, a central Taoist belief. Writings Zi Ning’s works, including teachings on internal strength and mind-body alignment, contributed to Taoist schools. His writings, often attributed to his influence on Yi Jin Jing, focus on the connection between physical training and spiritual cultivation. Legacy Though his life details remain unclear, Zi Ning’s influence persists in Taoist martial arts, internal cultivation, and spiritual practices. His teachings are integral to the Yi Jin Jing, influencing modern practices in qigong, traditional Chinese medicine, and martial arts. In summary, Zi Ning played a significant role in Taoist martial arts and spiritual practice, particularly in integrating physical strength with Taoist philosophy. His legacy continues to impact Taoist traditions today.

Love - Compassion - Sympathetic Joy - Equanimity

Well, digging into the Yijinjing is getting more and more interesting by the day. Particularly interesting right now is the practices ability to change not only tendons but the Huang. So the viscera that helps hold the organs in place. It’s always fascinated me how this occurs in Qigong practice, and how the shape of the body changes so dramatically from the inside. So different from western exercise the resultant aesthetics. Huang is just one aspect of the improvements , but an interesting one to get to know.

I always laboured under the assumption that Chen Style Tau Chi was the most martial of all the family styles. And the original precursor… The footwork, I remember being mystified watching my king Fu teacher for the first time properly demonstrating Chi Sau type close sparing, the footwork was forever changing yet minimal and relaxed. Back then it was a complete enigma, you know. I learned the stepping and practiced practiced practiced. Now my body learned this enigma is no enigma at all. It is the consciousness of movement that wakes up in the system given enough to time in practice. Always more to learn though, so much more…

This was always my favourite to go to sleep to. Always found it just right

For a couple of years now, I’ve known about this channel on YouTube. https://youtube.com/@sarovarayoga?si=PsEIaasqbuvokYF- Ive used the Audio meditations on there and found them to be some of the best and deepest I’ve ever listened to. They range from quick 20 minute nervous system resets to full on 2 hour long progressive relaxation insomnia recordings. There are LOADS to choose from. All great quality. They seem to have been put together in such a brilliant way. Every now and again I wonder what else may be top notch on YouTube. There is so much on Ally’s channel though I just tend to stay with her. I‘m making the thread though , firstly to share this great channel with you guys.. Also In the hope that it will spark you to post your best Audio links for guided meditations and relaxing recordings you know… Well all the best and thanks for sharing…

This is a nice song that is very meditative and is sang three times at each daily session in the Mahayana Kadampa centres … it’s always stayed with me and it’s lovely in the precise way they sing it there. It’s very memorable and meditative in the spirit of a sympathetic joy…. Here are the words; Tsongkhapa Crown ornament of thе scholars of the Land of the Snows You are Buddha Shakyamuni and Vajradhara The source of all attainments Avalokiteshvara The treasury of unobservable compassion Manjushri The supreme stainless wisdom And Vajrapani The destroyer of the hosts of maras O Venerable Guru-Buddha Synthesis of all Three Jewels With my body, speech and mind Respectfully I make requests Please grant your blessings To ripen and liberate myself and others And bestow the common and supreme attainments…

Different situation, I’m talking out and about. The only likely conflicts I’ll encounter are just silly ego things. Home invasion would be more likely to be armed insurgents. Certainly not something I’d look forward to. If I did I’d be praying for mushin and a split second to preview a weapon. Really rather not though. I’ve entertained the thought. It’s a tricky one. It looks like Poland should be safe for now but it’s not unrealistic that it could happen and we could be invaded by land again. Strike and move,, joking apart I have experienced mushin in the past where time has totally slowed down to the point of having around 20 thoughts in sequence in 1 second. I’d feel quite confident if that were to happen in unarmed combat, maybe. Rather not get too cocky there though I practice it more for the Art, the aesthetics and the beauty, plus a workout and chance to move in time to music as I generally have playing. Ahh to be a lover not a fighter. That is best for me me thinks

I’ve read that as well as planting the seeds for our fine Yijinjing Tendon Changing Exercises to flourish,,, Bodhidharma is also regarded as the 28th Patriarch within Buddhism in India. That he would have been a student of Dhyana and focused on the Lankavatara Sutra while he was In his homeland of India, before making his travels to China to become the father of Chan/Zen Buddhism and by proxy the father Shaolin kungfu. What I’m wondering is which Ancient Indian Martial Arts he likely studied early on and what types of Physical Yoga Asana practices he may have been practicing in the time and region he lived… And any other physical practices or teachers he may have had as a young Indian prince… There doesn’t seem to be much available online about it. I have found this new wave animated video on his Indian origins though , looks like it’s pretty child friendly and a nice introduction to him, I’ll certainly be watching it with my little one… Would love to know if if you know any more,,, please share here

Cool , would it be something like this for the 8 energies? And this for 5 steps? I’m thinking these must be standardised these 8 and 5 is that correct? im sure lots of variations are taught but can’t deviate to far from the basic framework and Chinese words, eg Peng… Is that correct?

So with Taijiquan would you say it’s useful to look in terms of sequential training when training students for martial abilities… ? Do you place emphasis on different things early on, footwork, power, or would this vary to greatly between teachers and students to say? What kind of drills do you tend to focus more on early on, then with intermediate and advanced, how does the focus tend to shift over time? I had some great interaction with a Chen style teacher for a little while, he was very active at the time training with higher level people within the organisation. He had just had a kid a was travelling less, The training with him was memorable. We would take one movement and it would be enough to work on that, there was a great amount of perspectives just with one tiny part of the form. I’m guessing this is a great way to teach at any level. I’d love to hear other ideas and approaches to what training sessions might look like 👍

He could probably do that, no sweat 😉 I agree this is even better, but fail safe in societal terms ‘respect elders’ is a good close second. Yeah I’ll bet. Injuries suck. It’s funny in our training we were always taught to completely disable the opponent. Smashing them with a total disregard for appropriate levels of reprisal. Simply speed, evasion and complete destruction. ironically I think this actually helped preserve the Buddhist nature of the Wing Chun even more. I think the more we trained more damage the less trouble we would likely end up in. I just wouldn’t use the stuff in real life. Now if our class was more about controlling joints and grappling, I think I would have ended up fighting a lot more (possibly) and having folk come back for revenge after being embarrassed . It’s ironic. I will just get out of range and keep a sympathetic joy about me rather than go back into combat and it does the trick. So far so good, keeping ego out of things. There is something about exposure to extremes that can make for healthy training.

Interesting. In the past I’ve thought of eastern practices in terms of differentiation. Buddhism for example being at some point very distinct from Taoism and Confucianism being something different still. I think I’d missed the point , that many Chinese households over the years have raised their families with much more of a blend of these approaches. The moment came for me when I chose self defence over complete pacifism and I veered away from Buddhist literature. It was such a treasure trove of knowledge and I would do well to continue. As with the I-Ching, Confucius commentaries and others etc. With martial arts, I believe application begins in the heart, and it’s a blend of these ideals that make me a good martial artist, I believe. Not only Tao… Do you think this is important too? What do you believe in regards to Ethics… and notably the concept of Justice, when it comes to Taijiquan training and application?

Thanks for the advice. Do you think it is advisable to intend on building the practice like this with a gentle intention over time. Dp you think the energetic systems will strengthen enough over time to adapt practice to this style of focus or no? Would the Yi not be able to increase along side the physical changes and become a mainstay of the practice? Perhaps it’s too many sets and reps to even perceive of this 12 sets x 24 movements or 12 x 36 movements, is a lot I know. It was challenging to maintain to the point where I maybe did 7 or 8 with this stretching to extremity intent with very good form per set. How might you advise approaching this style of concentration and form? How might you incorporate it into your practice over time? Also how may we increase Chi best when not doing these practices, any specific thing that fits the depleting nature of this particular practice aside from adequate food and rest?