Small and Grand circulation

The following is a limited summary of the Small and Grand Circulation. There is an enormous amount of knowledge available on this subject, and we recommend that you learn more about it after you learn these basic practices.

In the middle of our body, in front and behind, there are two channels of energy that are the main passageway of chi. The channel in front is called the conception vessel, and the one in the back, along our spine, is the governing vessel.

Small circulation

We will use the Reversed Breath for this technique, as we visualize white light flowing through your vessels. Figure 6 will help you understand the trajectory for this visualization. Using the reverse breathing, you will inhale once while you perform steps #1 to #4, and then exhale at step 5.

Take a few Normal Breaths and relax.


Fig.6
Begin your inhalation, and visualize white Qi emanating from your inner Dan-tian. As you contract your abdomen, visualize the Qi moving down into your Conception Vessel (#1). The Qi keeps flowing gently down and under your groin as you contract your sexual organs and your perineum (#2). The Qi flows back into the coccyx and up as you contract the cheeks of your buttocks. (#3) Next you complete the inhalation as the Qi moves into your spine at the level of your inner Dan-tian (#4). As you breathe out, letting go of your abdomen, the Qi moves back in your inner Dan-tian (#5).

Start with a few consecutive small circulations and try to feel the Qi flowing. It is recommended that you do nine complete loops at a time, and then relax. Perform these exercises slowly and comfortably.

fig.1

Grand circulation

Using figure 7 as your visualization guide, complete one inhalation while you perform steps #1 to #5. Exhale naturally, without visualization.

Take a few Normal Breaths and relax.

As you begin your inhalation, contract your abdomen, and visualize white Qi emanating from your inner Dan-tian and moving down into your Conception Vessel at (#1). The Qi keeps flowing gently down and under your body as you contract your sexual organs and your perineum (#2). The Qi flows back into the coccyx and up your back, as you contract the cheeks of your buttocks (#3). Keeping your abdomen, perineum, and buttocks contracted, visualize the Qi flowing up your back to the top of your head at (#4). Finish your inhalation as the Qi starts moving back down your forehead and nose (#5). As you breathe out, let go of all contractions, and the Qi will naturally move back down the front of your body, through the Conception Vessel, and down to the point at #1 again.

Fig.7

Perform nine circulations at a time, then relax. Always do these exercises slowly and comfortably.

fig.2