How to practice the 8 treasures of chi kung

One of the most popular ways to practice chi kung is to perform the series of movements called "the 8 treasures" (baduanjin, which is also known as the "8 jewels" or the "8 pieces of brocade").

The objective of the practice is to care for and improve health thanks to the effects on the flow of energies that govern the functioning of the organism, according to traditional Chinese medicine.

What are the benefits of the 8 treasures?

There are several scientific studies that have proven the benefits of regular practice. A review published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports benefits on quality of life, sleep, fitness and blood pressure levels.

Other research indicates that chi kung along with conventional treatment may be indicated for patients with type 2 diabetes.

How is baduanjin practiced?

Although you always have to aspire to perfection in the execution of the series of gestures, you have to take it easy, because to reach a masterful execution it takes one to three years.

Keep in mind that it is not just a physical exercise, but that it is harmonized with breathing, with mental attention and with emotion. In this article we make only a brief explanation.

Cómo practicar los 8 tesoros del chikung

Each of the 8 exercises that make up the baduanjin focuses on a different physical area and meridian or energy channel. The order may vary, but the following is the most common. Each exercise is repeated a minimum of 6 times.

1. Hands hold up the sky

This movement stimulates the "triple heater" meridian (san jiao). This system is responsible for the production and distribution of energy (chi) by the body. During the exercise you try to feel the chi. This can be reflected in tingling when stretching begins or in a sensation of heat.

2. Draw the bow to shoot the falcon

The practitioner mimics the action of pointing a bow to the right and left. This exercise stimulates the lungs, kidneys, and spleen.

3. Separate Heaven and Earth

If in the first movement the hands push up, in this treasure one hand pushes up while the other pushes down. It is beneficial for the stomach, pancreas and spleen.

4. The wise owl looks back

The neck stretches alternately to the left and to the right. This exercise performs a massage on the large intestine.

5. Head bobbing and tail wagging

To perform the treasury, the practitioner squats down, places the hands on the thighs with the elbows out, and rotates to face behind each side. The main purpose of it is to remove excess heat (or fire) from the heart. It is a suitable exercise to reduce anxiety.

6. The hands hold the feet

An upward stretch is performed, followed by a forward bend until the toes are grasped with the hands. This exercise strengthens the kidneys, where essential life energy resides.

7. Clench fists and glare

It is similar to the second treasure (drawing the bow), but instead of grabbing a bow, you punch it sideways or forward. Its purpose is to increase general vitality and muscle strength.

8. Bouncing on the toes

It involves pushing up from your toes with a small rocking motion as you return to the ground. The vibrations produced by this exercise soften the chi after the practice of the previous seven. This exercise distributes energy throughout the body.