Yi Jin Jing/ Tendon-Muscle Strengthening Exercises

[DynamicEquilibrium]

12 hours ago, ChiDragon said:

Is this a quote from an ancient text? Isn't this a little over exaggerated. Your body would be burnt up at the boiling point of water. The boiling point of any metal is much higher than that the body will not and cannot withstand it.

No, from my own experience, when i was younger i used to travel back and forth to china to do static and dynamic exercices in my teacher's living room somewhere in Shanxi, during the weekends other students were coming to practice Tuishou and Sanshou in the backyard.

 

Of course nothing is really coming to the melting point of metal.

 

The point is how the mind affects the body and vice-versa? Through which interface ? And why doing something everyday to take control over various switches? For which purposes? 

 

At some point any of these practices will affect directly the psycho-behavioural patterns of an individual, so learning before doing anything might be safer than a leap of faith on a coin flip. 

Who wants to repeat the same mistakes over and over again and wrongly take it for a real knowledge and skills acquisition process when actually it's just some 'uncontrolled mouvements'?

 

In a kung-fu movie the sword master tells his students "Think first before you move", really this is a verry good advice to prevent and avoid a lot of problems or to make those already existing worse. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited November 5 by DynamicEquilibrium

[ChiDragon]

12 minutes ago, Thrice Daily said:

No @ChiDragon it's pretty accurate. The body does feel this way. 

Ok! 👍

[ChiDragon]

5 minutes ago, DynamicEquilibrium said:

No, from my own experience

Ok, that's what I thought!👍

[Thrice Daily]

1 minute ago, ChiDragon said:

Ok! 👍

 

The body feels much heavier and as a solid unit, it's funny the same quality emerges with the breath, it's hard to say in words exactly but it is stronger and deeper without effort it adjusts to this heavier power and takes on a new quality. 

 

I remember as I've practices this Yi Jinjing for months almost daily in the past and after some weeks the qualities emerge. 

 

Funnily enough though I categorize this practice as being more compatible with water tradition Taoism or Vippasana style meditation . It seems to work better as in a blank concemtration, free from visualizations and energised different enthusiasm that can come from other meditations and practices.

 

This one I find, calm and deep, more predictable and steady improvement of results over time. 

[Thrice Daily]

一節　明勁
A. OBVIOUS ENERGY

明勁者。即拳之剛勁也。易骨者即煉精化氣易骨之道也。因人身中先天之氣與後天之氣不合。體質不堅。故發明其道。大凡人之初。生性無不。善體無不。健根無不固。純是先天。以後知識一開。靈竅一閉。先後不合。陰陽不交。皆是後天血氣用事。故血氣盛行。正氣衰弱。以致身體筋骨不能健壯。故昔達摩大師。傳下易筋洗髓二經。習之以強壯人之身體。還其人之初生。本來面目。後宋岳武穆王。擴充二經之義。作為三經。易骨。易筋。洗髓也。將三經又制成拳術。發明此經道理之用。拳經云。靜為本體。動為作用。與古之五禽。八段。練法有體而無用者不同矣。因拳術。有無窮之妙用。故先有易骨易筋洗髓。陰陽混成。剛柔悉化。無聲無臭。虛空靈通之全體。所以有其虛空靈通之全體。方有神化不測之妙用。故因此拳是內外一氣。動靜一源。體用一道。所以靜為本體。動為作用也。因人為一小天地。無不與天地之理相合。惟是天地之陰陽變化皆有更易。人之一身。旣與天地道理相合。身體虛弱。剛戾之氣。豈不能易乎。故更易之道。弱者易之強。柔者易之剛。悖者易之和。所以三經者。皆是變化人之氣質。以復其初也。易骨者。是拳中之明勁。練精化氣之道也。將人身中散亂之氣。收納於丹田之內。不偏不倚。和而不流。用九要之規模煆練。練至於六陽純全。剛健之至。即拳中上下相連。手足相顧。內外如一。至此拳中明勁之功盡。易骨之勁全。練精化氣之功亦畢矣。
 

 

二節　暗勁
B. HIDDEN ENERGY

暗勁者。拳中之柔勁也柔勁與軟不同。軟中無力柔非無力也。卽練氣化神易筋之道也。先練明勁而後練暗勁即丹道小周天止火再用大周天功夫之意。明勁停手。即小周天之沐浴也。暗勁手足停而未停。即大周天四正之沐浴也拳中所用之勁。是將形氣神。神即意也合住。兩手往後用力拉回。（內中有縮力）其意如拔鋼絲兩手前後用勁。左手往前推。右手往回拉。或右手往前推。左手往回拉。其意如撕絲緜。又如兩手拉硬弓。要用力徐徐拉開之意。兩手或右手往外翻橫。左手往裏裹勁。或左手往外翻橫。右手往裏裹勁。如同練鼍形之兩手。或是練連環拳之包裹拳。拳經云。裹者如包裹之不露。兩手往前推勁。如同推有輪之重物。往前推不動之意。又似推動而不動之意。兩足用力。前足落地時。足根先着地。不可有聲。然後再滿足着地。所用之勁。如同手往前往下按物一般。後足用力蹬勁。如同邁大步過水溝之意。拳經云。脚打採意不落空。是前足。消息全憑後脚蹬。是後足。馬有蹟蹄之功。皆是言兩足之意也。兩足進退。明勁暗勁。兩段之步法相同。惟是明勁則有聲。暗勁則無聲耳。

 

 

三節　化勁
C. NEUTRAL ENERGY

化勁者。即練神還虛。亦謂之洗髓之功夫也。是將暗勁練到至柔至順。謂之柔順之極處。暗勁之終也。丹經云陰陽混成。剛柔悉化。謂之丹熟。柔勁之終。是化勁之始也。所以再加向上工夫。用練神還虛。至形神俱杳。與道合真。以至於無聲無臭。謂之脱丹矣。拳經謂之拳無拳。意無意。無意之中。是真意。是謂之化勁。練神還虛。洗髓之工畢矣。化勁者。與練划勁不同。明勁暗勁。亦皆有划勁。划勁是兩手出入起落俱短。亦謂之短勁。如同手往着墻抓去。往下一划。手仍回在自己身上來。故謂之划勁。練化勁者。與前兩步工夫之形式無異。所用之勁不同耳。拳經云。三回九轉是一式。是此意也。三回者。練精化氣。練氣化神。練神還虛。即明勁暗勁化勁是也。三回者。明暗化勁是一式。九轉者。九轉純陽也。化至虛無。而還於純陽。是此理也。所練之時。將手足動作。順其前兩步之形式。皆不要用力。並非頑空不用力。周身內外。全用真意運用耳。手足動作。所用之力。有而若無。實而若虛。腹內之氣。所用亦不着意。亦非不着意。意在積蓄虛靈之神耳。呼吸似有似無。與丹道工夫。陽生至足。探取歸爐。封固停息。沐浴之時。呼吸相同。因此似有而無。皆是真息。是一神之妙用。也莊子云。真人之呼吸以踵。即是此意。非閉氣也。用工練去。不要間斷。練到至虛。身無其身。心無其心。方是形神俱妙。與道合真之境。此時能與太虛同體矣。以後練虛合道。能至寂然不動。感而遂通。無入而不自得。無往而不得其道。無可無不可也。拳經云。固靈根而動心者。武藝也。養靈根而靜心者。修道也。所以形意拳術。與丹道合而為一者也。

 

What do you think of this @ChiDragon, nice reading eh?

[ChiDragon]

42 minutes ago, Thrice Daily said:

What do you think of this @ChiDragon, nice reading eh?

Ha ha, it is Taoist talk that is so esoteric and paradoxical. It is hard to comprehend. Even the author don't even know what it was saying.  Please don't ask me to translate it.

 

Peace!

[Thrice Daily]

1 hour ago, ChiDragon said:

Ha ha, it is Taoist talk that is so esoteric and paradoxical. It is hard to comprehend. Even the author don't even know what it was saying.  Please don't ask me to translate it.

 

Peace!

You do make me laugh ChiDragon, I think you could change your name to ChiTiger you know 😂 

Edited November 5 by Thrice Daily

[ChiDragon]

20 minutes ago, Thrice Daily said:

You do make me laugh ChiDragon, I think you could change your name to ChiTiger you know 😂 

I'm already have a dragon tattoo on my lower right arm now. Do you want me to put a tiger on my left arm too?😂

[Thrice Daily]

It might be an idea mighten it 😆 

[Thrice Daily]

Today in Yi Jinjing I tried applying a focus of following the joints on the inhale to the extremities and then return through the joints and letting them close slightly to the LDT on the exhale.

 

Opening and closing the joints for each breath particularly at the end of each inhale, set up the structure into a ‘ready’ position for the next exhale and say, forward bend, side bend, return to centre etc. Made for a different practice entirely. 
 

It was relaxing but also testing and a little tiring in the rest of the day.
 

I’m pretty sure I heard about this method of focus when I was looking into I-Chuan and Xing-Yi around ten years ago. It was an I-Chuan focus I think, following inhale through the joints to extremities. 
 

Anyone heard of this and maybe have any material on it they can recommend?

 

[-ꦥꦏ꧀ ꦱꦠꦿꦶꦪꦺꦴ-]

21 hours ago, Thrice Daily said:

Today in Yi Jinjing I tried applying a focus of following the joints on the inhale to the extremities and then return through the joints and letting them close slightly to the LDT on the exhale.

 

Opening and closing the joints for each breath particularly at the end of each inhale, set up the structure into a ‘ready’ position for the next exhale and say, forward bend, side bend, return to centre etc. Made for a different practice entirely. 
 

It was relaxing but also testing and a little tiring in the rest of the day.
 

I’m pretty sure I heard about this method of focus when I was looking into I-Chuan and Xing-Yi around ten years ago. It was an I-Chuan focus I think, following inhale through the joints to extremities. 
 

Anyone heard of this and maybe have any material on it they can recommend?

 

If you do this method daily you will quickly drain all your qi

[Thrice Daily]

1 hour ago, -ꦥꦏ꧀ ꦱꦠꦿꦶꦪꦺꦴ- said:

If you do this method daily you will quickly drain all your qi

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?

[Thrice Daily]

1 hour ago, -ꦥꦏ꧀ ꦱꦠꦿꦶꦪꦺꦴ- said:

If you do this method daily you will quickly drain all your qi

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?

[-ꦥꦏ꧀ ꦱꦠꦿꦶꦪꦺꦴ-]

@Thrice Daily I would try doing it once a week and see how you feel. If it’s still too draining then do it every 2 weeks. After a while you will probably be able to do it more often.
 

Ideally you would have a daily neigong practice to constantly replenish and cultivate more qi. 

[Thrice Daily]

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  

Edited November 7 by Thrice Daily

[Thrice Daily]

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.

[Master Logray]

On 11/8/2024 at 5:55 AM, Thrice Daily said:

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… 

 

 

Bodhidharma used to be credited as the writer of Yijin Jing.   This subject has been widely researched and found not to be the truth.

 

First, to quality as Jing (Sutra), a certain format must be adhered to in Chinese Buddhism.  YJJ doesn't

 

Secondly, YJJ is full of Taoist jardons. 

 

Thirdly, some of the teachings are impossible for monks in a monastery.  e.g.  hiring young boys and girls to do massage, offering different ways to exercise the male organ.  

 

It is generally believed the book was written by 明末道教天台山紫凝道人, of late Ming Dynasty, around 1624.

 

 

 

[Thrice Daily]

8 hours ago, Master Logray said:

Bodhidharma used to be credited as the writer of Yijin Jing.   This subject has been widely researched and found not to be the truth.

 

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...

 

Quote

Thirdly, some of the teachings are impossible for monks in a monastery.  e.g.  hiring young boys and girls to do massage, offering different ways to exercise the male organ.  

 

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. 

 

Quote

It is generally believed the book was written by 明末道教天台山紫凝道人, of late Ming Dynasty, around 1624.

 

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:

1. 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."

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

Edited November 9 by Thrice Daily

[Master Logray]

18 hours ago, Thrice Daily said:

 

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:

1. 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."

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

 

Your info is very useful.  Zi Ning YJJ could be the more "original" one.    This one has full English explanation and results expected.   It is the most common set nowadays.

 

 

[Thrice Daily]

28 minutes ago, Master Logray said:

Your info is very useful.  Zi Ning YJJ could be the more "original" one.    This one has full English explanation and results expected.   It is the most common set nowadays.

 

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.

[Master Logray]

44 minutes ago, Thrice Daily said:

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.

 

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.., 

 

 

 

You are looking for the translation of the text (theory etc) or translation of the movements?   For movements, I think there are some English versions, even in Kindle.  

[Thrice Daily]

2 hours ago, Master Logray said:

You are looking for the translation of the text (theory etc) or translation of the movements?   For movements, I think there are some English versions, even in Kindle.  

 

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

[Thrice Daily]

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:

 

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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."

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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  

Edited Monday at 09:56 PM by Thrice Daily

[ChiDragon]

On 11/5/2024 at 12:28 AM, DynamicEquilibrium said:

In a kung-fu movie the sword master tells his students "Think first before you move", really this is a verry good advice to prevent and avoid a lot of problems or to make those already existing worse. 

Quick reflex has to be done spontaneously, there in no time to think that might cause delay. 

[Thrice Daily]

14 hours ago, ChiDragon said:

Quick reflex has to be done spontaneously, there in no time to think that might cause delay. 

It seems this unconscious competence is the final stage of skill , ability, mastery…

 

On the way though , your gonna benefit by plenty of thought. In training perhaps the more the better.

 

At times anyway, technical understanding and development is well worth the effort. It will always improve flow overtime. IMO you’re both correct.