Health qigong ba duan jing eight pieces of brocade. Health Qigong

21.08.202027.05.2017

These exercises have a beneficial effect on respiratory system and joint mobility

“By performing the Ba Duan Jing complex between morning and lunch,

You can find harmony with the Universe."

Gao Lian, Ming Dynasty

Wellness complex Chinese gymnastics“Eight Pieces of Brocade”, or in other words “Eight Pieces of Brocade” has been known for more than two thousand years. These exercises, like silk in their perfection, are extremely simple, but at the same time they carry a strong charge of vivacity and health.

The pearl of health Qigong, the Ba Duan Jing complex is useful for a very simple reason. It was developed by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctors for their patients. The goal was to eliminate the undesirable effects of congestion, pain, and discomfort, to quickly help the patient recover from a serious illness, and to help healthy people strengthen their strength, endurance, and harmonize the internal energies of the whole body.

While doing this, your arms, legs, and whole body seem to press magic buttons on the active points, passing through all the meridians. They harmonize and activate all the stagnant currents and forces of the body.

It is very important to perform all exercises with perfect precision in order to achieve the maximum therapeutic and healing effect.

These exercises have a beneficial effect on:

respiratory system,
joint mobility,
strengthens legs and arms,
nervous system.

Positively influences:

activity of the heart and blood vessels,
cure for osteoporosis and coronary atherosclerosis,
strengthen immune system,
slow down the aging process,
improve mental state.

Gymnastics "Eight Pieces of Brocade" perfectly replaces morning exercises. It can be performed at any other time of the day. Since these exercises use and harmonize your body’s own energy, you can do them even before bed! By harmonizing the forces and flows of Qi in your body, you will sleep better and more soundly.

Just don't do these exercises within an hour after eating. After eating it is better to just take a walk.

The complex is performed both standing and sitting. The sitting form is used for the recovery of postoperative patients and people who, for one reason or another, cannot perform it while standing.

We will look at a form that is performed while standing. As with all Qigong exercises, there is one limitation for “8 Pieces of Brocade” - it cannot be done in the wind. During exercise, the pores of your body open up, allowing pathogenic wind to enter. So be careful when choosing the location for your exercises if you are going to do them outdoors. Indoors, do it where you feel most comfortable!

To complete the complex there is no need for any additional funds: rugs, clothes... That is why in China it is often performed right at the workplace if you want to dispel fatigue or relieve a drowsy state.

The complex is extremely simple and accessible to both children from five years old and very old people. Just try it!

You can see all the details of the technique, the energy meridians and points involved in the following video.

A small reminder for correct execution complex

1. When performing exercises, the tongue lies on the upper palate immediately behind the teeth. The lips are tightly closed.

2. Exercises are done in complete silence.

3. All exercises are done to the left. Except for the fifth one.

4. Exercises should not be done in the wind.

5. While doing the exercises, you need to count to yourself.

6. Exercises are done without interruption - from beginning to end, as smoothly as possible.

7. Exercises must be done at your own rhythm, at a speed that is convenient for you.

8. Restrictions on age, execution time, physical condition No. It is only undesirable to do it during the acute course of the disease.

9. After completing the complex, it is advisable to spend a little time in mental and physical peace.

10. Last final exercise: men - right hand on top, girls - left. published

Current page: 5 (book has 11 pages total) [available reading passage: 8 pages]

Palm shapes in Ba Duan Jin

Having considered in some detail the importance of forming the correct position of the brush, let us move directly to the shapes of the brushes used in Eight Pieces of Brocade.

There are only four of them: palm (used in almost all exercises), single finger (used when “pulling the bow” for the hand that “holds the bow”), leopard paw (used when “pulling the bow” for the hand that “holds the bowstring”) ") and a fist (for the exercise “Punching with a fist”). No additional explanations are required for the figures below, the only thing you need to constantly remember is that, taking any shape (in particular, clenching into a fist), the palm never tenses.

This fist shape is wonderfully described in Tai Chi Chuan: “Fold your fist as if holding a fly.” There is no subtracting or adding here: if you clench your fist a little tighter than necessary, you will crush the fly, if you unclench it a little more than required, the fly will fly away.

Palm

Single finger

leopard paw

Making a fist - position 2

Making a fist - position 3

Making a fist - position 4

From these pictures you can see that the position of the fist is quite specific. This is due to the fact that the seventh piece of brocade (punch) includes a fragment of finger Qigong. This position of the thumb is used because it closes the Lao Gong point after the palm has “collected” the energy and “returns” it back to the body.

In Chan Mi Gong, in the section “Methods of protection and cleansing from negative energy,” there is a direct analogue of this technique. The difference is that it is designed to temporarily close the body and instead of the thumbs, the middle fingers are used, which, bending, with their tips press on the Lao Gong points, which in this case work as gates that close the body. At the same time, you should mentally imagine that the pores of the entire body are closed. When the body is closed in this way, no harmful Qi can enter.

In Ba Duan Jin, the fist is folded in two ways:

1. First thumb, the index finger is superimposed on it, then the middle finger, then the ring finger and, finally, the little finger (Fig. Making a fist - position 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). The fingers bend without haste, one at a time. All this is not done automatically, but under constant control of the mind - typical finger Qigong.

2. First the thumb, then the other four fingers are immediately placed on it (Fig. Making a fist - position 1 and rice Making a fist - position 5). In the considered version of the complex, this method is used.

Ba Duan Jin Complex

Alleged history

What is history if not a fable that we agreed to believe.

Napoleon Bonaparte

The name “Ba-Duan-Jin” (the hieroglyph Ba – “eight”, the hieroglyph Duan – “piece”, the hieroglyph Jin – “beautiful”, “sparkling”, for example brocade) translates approximately as “Eight pieces of brocade”, or a set of health exercises , their perfection is similar to silk.

This name has two interpretations. According to one of them, brocade, a high-quality multi-colored fabric, symbolizes the multifaceted impact of exercise on the entire human body. According to another version, the exercises of this complex were first recorded and sketched on pieces of brocade.

The second version is supported by the fact that in the 1970s. In the city of Changsha, the tomb of a high-ranking official from the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD) was found. It contained a piece of brocade with a design called “Illustration of Qi Transference.” It clearly depicts four movements (they are circled in the figure below), very similar to the movements of the modern Ba-Duan-Jin complex: “Shooting with the right and left hands in the archer’s pose”; “To normalize the functioning of the abdomen and spleen - one hand in the air”; “To strengthen the kidneys, slide your hands along your back and legs and touch your feet”; “To cure diseases – rise and fall on your heels.”

A piece of brocade with illustrations of "Qi Transfer"

Similar illustrations appear in the book “Caring for Mental Health and Prolonging Life” by Tuo Hong Jing, who lived during the reign of the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420–589).

The complex is also called “Formula for Leading and Attracting Xu Zhen-Jun.” This may be a corruption of the name of Xu Xun, who lived during the Jin dynasty (265–420) and to whom his descendants attributed this complex.

Another name for the complex is “Taoist” energy exercises“is due to the fact that, according to another version, it originated in the Taoist environment, where it was practiced to cleanse the internal channels of the body in order to open them for the free circulation of energy.

The first written mention of the practice of Ba-Duan-Jin was found in the book “Notes of a Listener - Selected Stories of Supernatural Beings,” authored by Hong Mai, who lived during the reign of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279).

In the process of spreading the method, a split occurred into northern and southern schools. Northern is attributed to Marshal Yue Fei, who developed several Qigong exercises to improve the health of his soldiers. The movements here are difficult to perform, the main thing in them is rigidity, the Ma-Bu position (“on horseback”) is often used. This variation of Ba-Duan-Jin is also called military eight pieces.

Vintage illustrations for “8 Standing Pieces”

The southern school is attributed to Liang Shichan, here the movements are simpler in appearance, the main thing in them is softness; they are also called civilian eight pieces. In the process of development of this school, a sitting form of this practice (8 sitting pieces) was formed.

Vintage illustrations for “8 Seated Pieces”

Like any “decent” Asian practice, the Eight Pieces of Brocade have so-called song instructions. Each individual “piece” has a poetic instruction explaining the deep meaning of the exercise, so for successful practice it is necessary to understand it.

Let us note that such instructions are a sign of a traditional school, which has been passed down from generation to generation for a long time. The fact is that not all practitioners knew how to write, so in order to preserve the transmission in completeness and integrity, they composed poems that encoded the main provisions of the school, understandable only to initiates. An oral transcript, so to speak.

The standing complex Eight Pieces of Brocade is popular in China, therefore, in historical documents there are quite a lot of its varieties, and all of them are correct and have the same basic principles. Therefore, it is not very important which version of the complex to choose. It is only important to really understand the essence of the practice and train patiently and persistently.

Below are song instructions for the three chronological stages.

Beginning of the Yuzhsun period

1. Fold your palm back and lift it up to control the three heaters.

3. The east and west are drawn independently to calm the spleen and stomach.

4. Again and again you look back, overcoming your wounds and weaknesses.

5. Large and small appeals to the palate contribute to the patency of the five dense organs.

6. Swallow saliva, replenishing Qi, and wave their arms left and right.

7. Wagging their tail like an eel to drive away heart disease.

8. Left and right hand cling to the feet, healing the lower back.

Jurchen and Mongol dynasties

1. Having folded it back, prop up and at the same time put three heaters in order.

2. On the left is the liver, on the right is the lungs - as if they were shooting at an eagle.

3. In the east is the liver, they support the west separately, so the arms pass through.

4. Five fatigues: rotate the head, seven wounds are straightened.

5. A swimming fish wags its tail - the heart is healed.

6. Hands cling to two feet - beneficial for the lower back.

7. They beat the heavenly drum thirty-six times.

8. Cover your ears with your palms, then tap on your head.

Beginning of the Guan Manchu Dynasty

1. Support the sky with two hands - favorable for three heaters.

2. They pull the bow left and right, as if they were shooting at an eagle.

3. To put the spleen in order, you need to separately raise the stomach.

4. There are five fatigues and seven wounds - look back.

5. You shake your head and wag your tail - the fire passes through your heart.

6. If you turn your back seven times, a hundred diseases will disappear.

7. If you clench your fists and look furiously, you will increase the power of Qi.

8. Grab your feet with both hands - you will strengthen your lower back and kidneys.

These song formulas are given in order to show the continuity of the tradition, which is clearly visible at least by the coincidence of the names of the movements.

General provisions

The Eight Pieces of Brocade system is available to the general public: the movements are simple, you can practice anywhere, there are no restrictions on age or physical condition. As a rule, there are no difficulties when performing the Ba-Duan-Jin complex, since the level of load and intensity of the exercises are low and easily regulated. The absence of complex methods of concentration allows you to study the system on your own.

Most people begin to study the Eight Pieces of Brocade because of the noticeable and relatively quick healing effects. This effect is based on the principle of “calm, serene heart and focused mind.” When a person becomes calm, his nervous system rests and, as a result, coordination of the functions of various organs of the body improves. Relaxation of the whole body, deep and natural breathing, smooth movements, controlled by thought, lead to harmony of “external” and “internal”.

The combination of tension and relaxation, movement and rest maintains a balance between Yin and Yang, improves blood circulation and Qi, and leads to a stronger body and improved health.

At systematic studies there is a significant reduction in the deformation of the spinal column, improvement in its mobility, strengthening of ligaments, bones, increase in muscle strength, range of motion in the joints, which is good remedy prevention of osteochondrosis, radiculitis, arthritis. There is an improvement in cardiac activity (according to ECG data), stabilization blood pressure, endurance increases, recovery processes proceed faster after exercise.

At regular classes The amplitude of movement of the chest, the elasticity of the lung tissue increases, the vital capacity of the lungs increases, and gas exchange in them improves.

Rhythmic alternations of tension and relaxation skeletal muscles and diaphragms improve blood movement in the abdominal cavity, normalizing intestinal motility, eliminating congestion in the liver.

Exercise has a positive effect on metabolism. The level of cholesterol in the blood of exercisers is reduced, which ensures the prevention of atherosclerosis. Metabolism in the body improves, which leads to a reduction in excess weight.

The practice of Eight Pieces of Brocade significantly increases the tone of the body, relieves fatigue, and reduces the need for sleep. Ba-Duan-Jin is widely used as a recovery complex for athletes after competitions, as well as people whose work is associated with high mental, intellectual and physical stress.

Implementation principles

There was no nail - the horseshoe fell; the horseshoe fell and the horse went lame; the horse went lame - the commander was killed, the cavalry was defeated, the army was fleeing. The enemy enters the city, not sparing prisoners, because there was no nail in the forge.

On the importance of precise implementation of even the most general principles

To balance the circulation of internal energy, body movements must be soft, round, smooth, calm, “spacious,” continuous and natural. They are not performed thoughtlessly, but under the constant control of the mind. Movements should not be interrupted. Even if this happens, the external pause does not interrupt the internal circulation of Qi.

It is very important to relax the body, for which you need to build correct posture(body position). If the body is relaxed, then the exercises will have a much greater effect. If the mind is calm, then a person can more easily endure psychological and physiological stress. A calm, neutral mind allows you to fully concentrate on the exercise. There is even a special joke about the state of mind in Qigong: if a thousand naked beauties pass by a man practicing Qigong, then only one thought should flash through his mind: “a thousand naked beauties are passing by me.”

Breathing should become measured, deep and natural, the heart should beat calmly.

When the body, breath and mind act without coercion, performing the exercises becomes natural (this does not mean that the practice process can be left to chance; on the contrary, only in such a state is the mind able to fully control the process).

In order to facilitate the process of relaxing the body and calming the mind, you can imagine, for example, flowing water or floating clouds.

The initial stage can be divided into approximately three stages:

1. Correct body positions (including stances).

2. Correct execution of movements.

3. Understanding the effort in each exercise.

When performing exercises, you must take into account your age and physical condition and, in accordance with this, independently choose the intensity and level of load.

If the duration of classes, the number of repetitions and the intensity of the movements are determined correctly, then after training the mind, body and Qi find balance, which immediately begins to affect the everyday life.

The minimum number of repetitions of each exercise in the complex is 3 times in each direction (if the “piece” is done only in one direction, then 6 times). As your skill grows and your energy potential increases, you can increase the number of repetitions of each exercise up to 24 times.

There are several ways to practice Eight Pieces of Brocade:

1. As a separate complex:

For the first time, the Eight Pieces of Brocade exercise is best done in the morning immediately after waking up. Ideally, they can be done twice: the first time to awaken the body and lightly warm up the muscles. The second is in compliance with all the rules, when consciousness has already awakened.

In the middle of the day (at about 15-16 or 18-19 hours) - to stimulate brain activity and relax the whole body.

In the evening, immediately before bed and always after sunset, in order to clear the mind after the day's worries and relieve accumulated fatigue.

2. Martial arts training includes:

In this case, the Ba-Duan-Jin exercises can be performed several times during the training.

At the beginning, to concentrate attention and eliminate distracting thoughts.

In the end, to restore the body.

You can perform several exercises of your choice after intense exercise, complex complexes, fights, etc.

In any mode of exercise, adherence to the correct daily routine increases the effect of performing the exercises of the Ba-Duan-Jin complex. You should not force training, because the speed of achieving results depends on the characteristics of each person. The most important thing is gradualism and consistency.

Ba-Duan-Jin is perfectly complemented by other practices (some of these practices were mentioned above). In particular, its combination with self-massage, pole standing (Zhuang Gong), Tai Chi Chuan, and sitting meditation is generally accepted. It’s also good to just read and study after it.

Performing the Ba-Duan-Jin complex

Even a journey of a thousand Li begins with the first step.

Ancient Chinese proverb, sometimes attributed to Lao Tzu

Performing the Ba-Duan-Jin complex simply begins with the first exercise.

Our interpretation for our case

As noted above, there are many “correct” varieties of the standing Eight Pieces of Brocade complex. After studying and comparative analysis of a fairly large number of options by the authors (despite their undoubted adherence to the traditional versions of Wu Shu and Qigong), a modern modification of the complex compiled by the All-China Association of Health Qigong was chosen for description in this book.

This is due to the following reasons.

First and most important, the complex is entirely designed in a traditional manner and fully preserves the “taste” of real Qigong.

Of all the options studied, this one is perhaps the simplest and most unsophisticated in appearance.

And finally, initial and final exercise. The first of them is one of the modifications of the famous “Zhuang Gong” (pillar standing), and the last is “collecting Qi”. Both of them seem to be very valuable and natural additions to the complex.

Initial exercise (short standing in a pillar)

The traditional Ba-Duan-Jin complex does not begin with calming meditation. An additional pose is intended for this purpose (let’s call it “zero”).

Implementation

Exercise builds the structure of the body, harmonizes the flow of Qi, calms the mind, regulates breathing and relaxes the internal organs.

Execution

1. Stand up straight. Heels together, arms hanging freely along the body. The gaze is directed straight and into the distance. Breathing is slow and even. Take several breaths in and out, mentally directing the air to the Tan Tien (Fig. 0–1).

Rice. 0–1

Rice. 0–2

Rice. 0–3

2. Transfer body weight to right leg and take a step to the side with your left foot shoulder-width apart. Feet parallel. Raise your hands to hip level, palms back. The gaze is directed straight and into the distance (Fig. 0–2).

3. Bend your knees slightly. Raise your hands to the level of the navel and form a “ball hugging pose.” Fingertips approximately 10 cm apart (Fig. 0–3).

Piece 1. “Both hands support the sky and warm up the triple heater”

Both hands support the Sky to regulate the San Jiao (Triple Warmer); San Jiao passes Qi freely and smoothly, diseases disappear. Turn your palms towards the sky and raise both arms. Straighten your chest, straighten your lower back. Stand up straight and freeze. Exercise for a long time, your body will become strong and you will be happy.

Song instructions for the first piece

In Chinese traditional medicine there is the concept of “San Jiao”. It is most often translated as Triple Heater, which is most likely due to the fact that this term was first translated from Chinese into English as triple heater (or triple warmer), and only then (literally) into Russian. A translation closer to the original seems to be “Three Furnaces” or “Three Hearths”.

The first heater is the area above the diaphragm; the second is the area between the diaphragm and the navel; the third is the area between the navel and groin. They are responsible for nutrition, respiration and excretion respectively. Heaters include energy centers for a range of zones. For example, the lower one is for the liver and kidney meridians, the middle one is for the lungs and heart, etc. It is believed that improper movement of energy in the three heaters is the main reason for the disruption of Qi circulation in other organs.

When performing the first exercise, each of these three energy zones is warmed up due to the movement of Qi from bottom to top along the anteromedian meridian.

In the first phase of the exercise, the fingers of the hands are connected to each other, the ribs of the palms are located opposite the Qi-Hai point, at the level of the lower Dan-Tian.

As you inhale, your arms rise up along the anteromedian meridian, your elbows pointing down. It is important that you do not lift your hands up rib cage and shoulders.

When the palms reach the level of the middle Dan Tian (Tian Zhong point), the palms turn away from themselves. Then, as you inhale, raise your arms straight up. The gaze follows the palms up. When the arms are straightened above the head, the gaze moves forward into the distance.

Then the arms are spread to the sides and smoothly lowered down. At the level of the lower Dan Tien, the fingers connect again, thus completing the cycle. When raising the arms, the muscles of the torso stretch, and when lowering, they relax, ensuring the free flow of Qi. The repetition of these movements regulates the movement of Qi through the three heaters. When it becomes smooth, the internal organs relax and become healthier.

The most important phase (it was the basis for the name of the exercise) is considered to be the phase when the arms are raised, the palms are turned up and are located directly above the top of the head. The spine should be straight (“tight, but not tense”). The body position is vertical, the arms seem to be attracted to the sky, and the legs to the ground. Due to this, a person stretches, becoming a conductor connecting Heaven and Earth.

In addition to influencing the three heaters, the exercise has another aspect - influencing the energy sphere around the physical body.

To understand what we are talking about, you need to know that in Qigong there are three circles of energy circulation:

1. “Small in Small Heavenly Circle”, or circulation of energy in the lower Dan-Tian.

2. “Small Heavenly Circle” – energy circulation along the anterior and posterior median meridians.

3. “Great Heavenly Circle”, when in addition to the body and head, arms and legs are included in the cycle (sometimes in practices top level, as, for example, in Chan Mi-Gong, a large circle is considered to be the movement of Qi along the path Heaven - Man - Earth - Man - Heaven, etc.).

In addition to these three circles, there is also an external energy sphere (in the West it is called the aura), which can be described as a large celestial circle projected outward. This sphere is formed when energy accumulates in abundance and goes beyond the physical body of a person.

In an average healthy person, this sphere has the shape of an oval. Its top is just above the head, and the bottom goes 20–30 cm into the ground. The healthier and more energetic a person is, the wider the boundaries of the sphere. In the context of this concept, the first exercise is aimed at stretching the energy sphere vertically.

The philosophical meaning of this piece of brocade is that when you raise your hands up, the internal force is concentrated in the palms, where all the hand meridians begin. This is the hidden essence of the phrase: “Raising the sky with both hands.” The ancients believed that “Raise the sky” meant to lift an endless, immense, heavy thing, to perform a significant deed.

In addition, stretching out towards the sky and resting his feet on the ground, a person seems to connect Heaven and Earth, becoming one with them.

One of the most popular and most frequently recommended techniques is also a set of exercises called baduan jin (ba duan jin) - eight pieces of brocade. Now it is difficult to trace the origin and development of this complex, but, undoubtedly, its ancient history refers to the Shaolin Monastery. Although there are hundreds of Baduan Jin variants throughout China, there are two main directions - the so-called. “civilian” and “military” (i.e. soft and hard options). The hard version originates from Yue Fei, the legendary commander who studied Baduan Jin in Shaolin, and is characterized by alternating high and low stances. The “civilian” version is softer, done in high racks. This complex is rightfully considered the pearl of Health Qigong, as it is not only very simple, but also incredibly effective. It has been scientifically proven that performing the exercises of the Ba Duan Jing complex improves the condition of the respiratory system, joint mobility, strengthens the legs and arms, nerves, and also restores the body’s energy balance. Among others positive effects improvement should be noted cardiovascular system, cure osteoporosis and coronary atherosclerosis, strengthen the immune system, slow down the aging process, improve mental state.

The history of the Ba Duan Jing complex (literally translated as eight pieces of brocade) dates back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279). This complex is rightfully considered the pearl of Health Qigong, as it is not only very simple, but also incredibly effective. Aerobic exercise Ba Duan Jing are developed based on the theories of kinetics and physiology. To the eight traditional ones, we added two more exercises: warm-up and final. They give the complex a finished, unified look. It has been scientifically proven that performing the exercises of the Ba Duan Jing complex improves the condition of the respiratory system, joint mobility, strengthens the legs and arms, nerves, and also restores the body’s energy balance. Other positive effects include improving the cardiovascular system, healing osteoporosis and coronary atherosclerosis, strengthening the immune system, slowing down the aging process, and improving mental state. Studies have shown that people do not have difficulties performing the Ba Duan Jing complex, since the level of load and intensity of the exercises are low. Moreover, all those involved confirm the fact of improved health.

Chapter 1 Origin and Development Gao Lian, a scholar who lived during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), wrote in his book “Eight Aspects of Health Care”: “By performing the Ba Duan Jing complex between morning and lunch, one can gain harmony with the Universe." The hieroglyph Jing means “beautiful”, “sparkling” (for example, brocade). It can also be deciphered as a set of health-improving exercises, similar in their perfection to silk. The term Ba Duan Jing first appeared in the book Listener's Notes - Selected Stories of Supernatural Beings, written by Hong Mai, who lived during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279). “Li Si Jiu was appointed to a high position in the emperor's court... He began to wake up at midnight and perform special exercises called Ba Duan Jing, which involved deep breathing and self-massage.” Thus, this set of exercises was popular even in that distant time. Ba Duan Jing is performed in two positions - sitting and standing. We based this book on exercises that are performed in a standing position due to their popularity. During the Ming and Qing dynasties (1644–1911), performing the Ba Duan Jing complex in a standing position became very popular. During the Qing Dynasty, a book called New Illustrations was published. Health Exercises- Ba Duan Jing." It was the first to illustrate the performance of the Ba Duan Jing exercises in a standing position. This is how it described the exercises: “To normalize work internal organs- raising palms to the sky; shooting with the right and left hands in an archer's pose; to normalize the functioning of the stomach and spleen - one hand in the air; to prevent illness and stress - look back; to relieve stress - shaking your head and bending your torso; to strengthen the kidneys - sliding your hands along your back and legs and touching your feet; to increase strength - gaze and punch; to cure diseases - raising and lowering on your heels.” As can be seen from this passage, even then the Ba Duan Jing exercises took the form of a completed health complex. Many schools practicing Ba Duan Jing have emerged. There are two main ones: North and South. Followers of the Northern school perform the exercises hard, in a sitting position, while the Southern school performs them more softly, in a standing position. However, judging by their movements, we can conclude that they have the same primary source. During their existence, as a result of mutual influence, these two schools became very similar. There is still debate about who and when invented Ba Duan Jing. One thing is clear - in the time that has passed since its inception, it has been supplemented more than once by specialists and practitioners. In the 1970s, the tomb of a high-ranking official from the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) was found in the city of Changsha. It contained a piece of brocade with a design called “Illustration of Qi Transference.” It clearly depicts 4 movements that are very similar to the movements of the modern Ba Duan Jing complex: “Shooting with the right and left hands in the archer’s pose”; “To normalize the functioning of the abdomen and spleen - one hand in the air”; “To strengthen the kidneys, slide your hands along your back and legs and touch your feet”; “To cure diseases - rise and fall on your heels.” Similar illustrations are present in the book of Tuo Hong Jing, who lived during the reign of the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420–589) - “Caring for the Health of the Mind and Extending Life.”

Chapter 2 Characteristic Features Smooth, slow movements Movements should be smooth, calm and wide. Most of the movements of this complex are circular. They stimulate the spine. The exercises coordinate the work of your arms and legs, so you won’t feel any strain while doing them. These movements are aimed at relaxing the body and calming the mind, so when performing them, imagine flowing water or floating clouds. The movements should never be interrupted, as they balance the circulation of internal energy. A rhythmic combination of relaxation and tension, dynamism and inertia. For complete relaxation, it is necessary to relax the muscles, ligaments and calm the central nervous system. Breathing should be even, the heart should beat calmly. The correct stance and body position play a very important role important role when relaxing. Relaxation itself must come from within, that is, first you must calm your mind and then your body. You should only apply effort when moving from one movement to another. For example: in the exercise “To normalize the functioning of internal organs - raising the palms to the sky,” force is applied when moving the arms; “Shooting with the right and left hands in an archer’s pose” - when moving into an archer’s stance; “To normalize the work of the abdomen and spleen - one hand in the air” - when raising the arm; “To prevent illness and tension - look back” - when moving your arms and head; “To relieve stress - shake the head and bend the body” - when moving into a horse stance; “To strengthen the kidneys - slide your hands along your back and legs and touch your feet” - when moving your hands; “To increase strength - gaze and punch” - when striking with a fist; “To cure diseases - rise and fall on the heels” - while moving the head and tensing the toes and buttocks. Strength is required only to change movements. Otherwise, you should be relaxed. The combination of tension and relaxation, dynamism and inertia maintains a balance between Yin and Yang (in traditional Chinese medicine - two opposite principles). This combination also improves Qi circulation in energy channels, blood circulation and joint mobility. Obviously, all this leads to strengthening the body and improving health. Dynamism and inertia are external manifestations of body movements. Dynamic movements should be performed energetically, smoothly and naturally. You must be absolutely calm while applying force from one movement to another, especially when performing the above movements slowly. The external pause does not interrupt the internal circulation; the muscles remain stretched at this time. Stimulation of the targeted parts of the body is achieved by rational application of force for a certain period of time. Connection of body and mind for the formation of vital energy Mind in Qigong refers to the mental state and consciousness, as well as body movements controlled by thought and mind. The mind-body connection is an interactive work characterized by harmony and symmetry in all movements. The peculiarity of Ba Duan Jing is soft, smooth stances and movements performed using internal strength. An energetic body and a focused mind combine softness and hardness. The purpose of the exercises is to accelerate the circulation of internal energy through physical and spiritual exercises, which will lead to improved health and physical fitness person. An integral part of the exercises is deep, natural breathing.

Chapter 3 Practical advice Be calm, relaxed, natural A calm mind can more easily withstand psychological and physiological stress. If the body is relaxed, then exercises to strengthen muscles, ligaments and internal organs will have a greater effect. This two-way relaxation is in a great way Free your body, breath and mind from tension. A calm mind and neutral mood help you fully concentrate on the exercise. Calmness and relaxation are inseparable from each other. Naturalness is that your body, breath and mind act without compulsion. This does not mean that the exercise should be left to chance - the exercises should be performed in accordance with the standards, breathing should be unconscious, and thoughts should not be distracted by foreign objects. This state can only be achieved through constant training. Perform movements precisely, but flexibly. Precision lies in performing exercises in accordance with the requirements and standards. The main task for beginners is to learn to accept correct racks. The second task is to learn how to perform the movements. And finally, the third task is to carefully study how force is applied in these exercises. When performing exercises, you must take into account your age and physical condition. We recommend choosing the intensity and level of load yourself. Training and post-training state Training is a process that combines body movement, breathing and mental regulation. The post-workout state is a comfortable and natural state of mind and body after exercise. You must independently select the level of load and intensity of exercise in accordance with your physical condition. This is necessary to perform the exercises correctly. The same applies to breathing. Training and post-training state are interconnected. You must independently determine the duration of training, the number of repetitions and the intensity of the movements, so that after training your mind, body and Qi (internal energy) circulation will find balance. This combination applies equally to everyday life. Following a daily routine improves health and increases the effect of performing the exercises of the Ba Duan Jing complex. Gradual progress. At first, beginners may feel pain in their muscles and joints when performing the complex. Gradually the pain will go away. For those who have just started performing this complex, we advise you to breathe naturally. Once some time has passed and you have experience coordinating movements and breathing, you can move on to deep breathing. The effectiveness of this complex depends on the characteristics of each person. But with constant, correct implementation of the exercises of this complex, each person will feel their healing effect. The most important thing is consistency.

“By performing the Ba Duan Jing complex between morning and lunch, you can find harmony with the Universe.”
Gao Lian, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

The complex of health-improving Chinese gymnastics “Eight Pieces of Brocade”, or in other words “Eight Pieces of Brocade”, has been known for more than two thousand years. These exercises, like silk in their perfection, are extremely simple, but at the same time they carry a strong charge of vivacity and health.

During execution, your arms, legs, and whole body seem to press magic buttons on the active points and pass through all the meridians. They harmonize and activate all the stagnant currents and forces of the body. By the way, it is very important to perform all the exercises with perfect precision in order to achieve the maximum therapeutic and healing effect.

These exercises have a beneficial effect on the respiratory system, joint mobility, strengthen the legs and arms, and the nervous system. They have a positive effect on the activity of the heart and blood vessels, cure osteoporosis and coronary atherosclerosis, strengthen the immune system, slow down the aging process, and improve mental state. Isn't this a miracle?

However, all of the above should not lead the reader to think that this complex exists only for sick people, although, according to a well-known medical joke, “there are no healthy people, there are only underexamined ones.” The “Eight Pieces of Brocade” gymnastics is an excellent substitute for morning exercises. It can be performed at any other time of the day. Since these exercises use and harmonize your body’s own energy, you can do them even before bed! By harmonizing the forces and flows of Qi in your body, you will sleep better and more soundly. Just don't do these exercises within an hour after eating. After eating it is better to just take a walk.

The complex is performed both standing and sitting. The sitting form is used for the recovery of postoperative patients and people who, for one reason or another, cannot perform it while standing. We will look at a form that is performed while standing.

As with all Qigong exercises, there is one limitation for “8 Pieces of Brocade” - it cannot be done in the wind. During exercise, the pores of your body open up, allowing pathogenic wind to enter. So be careful when choosing where to do your exercises if you are going to do them outside. Indoors, do it where you feel most comfortable!

To perform the complex there is no need for any additional means: rugs, clothes... That is why in China it is often performed right at the workplace if you want to dispel fatigue or relieve a drowsy state.

The complex is extremely simple and accessible to both children from five years old and very old people. Just try it!

You can see all the details of the technique, the energy meridians and points involved in the following video prepared by the All-China Health Qigong Association.

A small reminder for the correct implementation of the complex

When performing exercises, the tongue lies on the upper palate just behind the teeth. The lips are tightly closed.
The exercises are done in complete silence.
All exercises are done to the left. Except for the fifth one.
Exercises should not be done in the wind.
While doing the exercises, you need to count to yourself.
The exercises are done without interruption - from beginning to end, as smoothly as possible.
Exercises must be done at your own rhythm, at a speed that is convenient for you.
There are no restrictions on age, time of completion, or physical condition. It is not advisable to do it during the acute course of the disease.
After completing the complex, it is advisable to spend a little time in mental and physical peace.

About the Master

Teacher Feng Shao Yi was born on July 29, 1941 in China, in the city of Shen Yang. At the age of seven he began studying Gong Fu under the guidance of his father. At the age of nine, he began to study the internal style of Xin Yi Quan and drawing from the traditional martial arts master and artist Cao Lian Bi. Later he studied Shaolin Wu Shu, Ba Gua, Tai Chi Quan from many masters.

Repeatedly participated in city, provincial, all-China and international competitions according to Wu Shu, on which he conquered large number gold and silver medals. Master of Wu-Shu 6th level.

He was awarded government awards as an outstanding master of Tai Chi Quan. In 2001, he was included in the “Big Directory of Outstanding Figures of the PRC”, “Collection of Famous People of the Century”. In 2003, records about him appeared in the publications of the Great Modern Directory of the People's Republic of China on Wu Shu and Notes on Chinese Figures of Tai Chi Quan.

He studied the Chan Mi Gong school under the guidance of master Liu Han Wen, the bearer of this tradition in the fourth generation.

In 1987, he was elected general secretary of the Qigong Research Association of Fuxin City, and a special member of the Chinese Qigong Research Association. Qigong instructor of the highest category.

Master Feng Shao Yi with his teacher, Master Liu Han Wen

Master Feng demonstrates the Tai-Ji-Jian ("Sword of the Great Limit") form

In the process of many years of training, Feng Shao Yi managed to combine the capabilities of traditional Chinese medicine, Gong Fu and Qigong, as a result of which he formed his own independent style.

As a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine, Feng Shao Yi uses not only the usual needles, massage and moxibustion for reflexologists, but also the healing capabilities of Chan Mi Gong, which help cleanse, strengthen and harmonize the patient's vital energy.

Preface

You cannot harness a horse and a tremulous doe to one cart.

Mazepa's words from Pushkin's poem "Poltava"

It’s also possible if their teaching methods were based on the same principles.

Our interpretation

For centuries in China there have been a number of practices designed to improve health, prolong life, increase internal energy and fortitude, and even “unite with the universe.” In ancient times, these practices had different names: Tao-Yin gymnastics, Tu-Na (“gaining and releasing”, “gaining what is good and spitting out what is not needed”, “breathing exercises”), Chan Zuo (“Chan sitting”, or “still sitting”, “immersion in contemplation”) or Nei Gong (“inner work”, “exercises for developing inner strength”).

Nowadays, all these practices are united under the common name Qigong, which can be roughly translated as working with energy.

The concept of “Qi” has no exact analogues in European languages and means a certain omnipresent substance that permeates everything in the world (Heaven, Earth, living beings, etc.).

In this context, the most accurate translation is life force, energy.

The hieroglyph Gong translates roughly as work, labor, effort.

In modern simplified version In Chinese writing, these characters look like this:

The word “Qigong” was first uttered by Mao Zedong at one of the party events, when, listing the historical achievements of the Chinese people, he mentioned the cultural heritage of the country.

Nowadays, the concept of “Qigong” refers not only to physical and energy techniques, but also to an entire science associated with philosophy, psychology, biology, medicine, physics, and chemistry.

There are several Qigong complexes, the fate of which was such that for one reason or another they gained wide popularity throughout the world. This does not mean that they are better than others - it just happens. In particular, one of the most widespread is the Eight Pieces of Brocade system, the popularity of which can be judged at least by the number of links on the Internet. For example, for the query “eight pieces of brocade” the Google search engine (as of April 8, 2012) produces more than 72 thousand links.

In Russian, however, there are slightly fewer links to the query “Eight pieces of brocade” - “only” 49 thousand.

Accordingly, there are also more than enough books (among them many beautiful ones written by traditional Chinese masters).

As a result, it was decided to create the book in a slightly different way, looking at the Eight Pieces of Brocade from a different angle.

Usually the health aspect of this complex is considered, and at its external level.

However, the Chinese are very practical people and one of the most popular Chinese proverbs goes something like this: “Time is precious.” For practitioners of Qigong and Wu Shu it is interpreted something like this. Practice is usually too extensive to allow yourself to train just one thing. That's why correct activities designed to work on several aspects simultaneously. If the student thinks that he is studying in at the moment one thing, then either he did not understand something, or it was not conveyed to him (in other words, it was hidden).

If we recall the well-known classification of Qigong (Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, medical and military), then it immediately becomes clear how arbitrary it is, if only because practical Chinese do not simply have health-improving Qigong (which, for example, is considered to be the Eight Pieces of Brocade) . Any health-improving Qigong is almost always a military one, because it was in military practices that the most advanced methods of working with the body, energy and spirit were selected (the payment for mistakes was at all times maximum). Just like military Qigong has always been healthy: a warrior (while alive) is healthy by default. And this leads us to understand the multidimensionality of Qigong: you improve your health, at the same time (often without realizing it) you learn martial science, become wiser, increase your virtue and much more.

The Eight Pieces of Brocade complex is no exception, and upon closer examination it turns out that its contents are much more voluminous than simply “making” a set of eight movements for health purposes.

Therefore, the goal of our work was a more holistic consideration of this type of Qigong (philosophical and medical-energetic foundations, external form and internal content, healing significance and combat use), not only independently, but in connection with other practices: mainly with Chan Mi -Qigong, which, unlike the “folk system” Ba-Duan-Jin, has always been an “elite” practice of the highest level, transmitted only secretly for one and a half thousand years. At the same time, it was decided, if necessary, to use other practices for illustration, in particular Tai Chi Quan, finger Qigong, and pillar standing.

Such a mixture of styles in one book must undoubtedly be justified. It is usually assumed that any holistic and complete system (especially a traditional one that has gone through centuries of testing) should be self-sufficient. In other words, a person who has perfectly studied the Eight Pieces of Brocade does not need anything else in life for complete happiness.

In practice, such an ideal situation never occurs. Each system places emphasis on one thing, and this emphasis can shift as one deepens in practice.

For example, in Chan Mi Gong everything starts with basic Qigong, and beginners are required to perform movements of the physical body with a large amplitude. As the “power of mind” grows and the amount of Qi increases, external movements gradually become less and less, and internal movements (movement of energy, internal organs, etc.) become more and more intense.

Next comes the turn of practices in which external movement fades away altogether. For example, in the practice of Shen-Tong-Fa (working with the spirit), people who are not endowed with natural abilities have to sit in the lotus position for two hours, folding their hands in a very difficult mudra. Thus, the body is doomed to long-term immobility and one has to resort to techniques that contain a sufficient amount of “correct” movement, for example Tai Chi Quan or the same Eight Pieces of Brocade.

By the way, in Tai Chi Chuan there is also a decrease in the amount of movement as skill increases. There is even such a “Tai Chi Chuan” rule: “at first the windings are large, like watermelons, then they become like apples, and finally they decrease to the size of grains of rice.” But at any skill level, the number of movements remains sufficient.

Thus, we come to the need to combine (correctly!) various practices. There is a beautiful Chinese metaphor about this, which Master Feng constantly repeats: “Practice only Wu-Shu or only Qigong is like hopping on one leg.”

For Westerners, the principle of combining various practices to achieve an optimal result is also quite clear: most discoveries were made at the intersection of sciences.

In our case, if we liken the Eight Pieces of Brocade, for example, to a car with a steam engine, then “building” into it the methods of basic Qigong and Tu-Na-Qi-Fa of the Chan-Mi-Gong school is similar to replacing a steam engine with external combustion with an internal combustion engine combustion with significantly higher efficiency.

Using the principles of Tai Chi Quan will be no less useful. Generally speaking, they are already declared in the Eight Pieces of Brocade complex, but they are not “drawn” clearly enough. If we continue the analogy with a car, then the introduction of the principles of Tai Chi Chuan (in which implementation occurs through form and external movement, brought to perfection) into the Eight Pieces of Brocade complex can be likened to the improvement of the chassis (chassis, suspension, steering and, finally, transmission that transfers forces from the engine to the wheels).

There is another reason why we allowed ourselves to draw parallels between styles. The point again is the lack of strictness of classification. For example, Wu Shu styles are divided into external and internal, sports and traditional, northern and southern, etc. However, there is another division that seems much more correct: expensive and cheap Gong Fu. Dear is when a tradition with all its internal secrets and components is passed on to a person. Cheap - when they convey only what is visible, what is outside, what simply cannot be ignored. Basically a wrapper without the candy.

The types of Qigong can be classified in a similar way. Top level qigong and all the rest. The bottom line is that Qigong of the highest level is a system that includes all parts: health (required), military (if desired), spiritual practice (also required).

For example, Eight Pieces of Brocade is a folk school that has been “open” for quite some time and has spread widely throughout the world. The Chan Mi Qigong school undoubtedly belongs to secret practices. This is the highest level of Qigong that can be “built in” literally everywhere. In particular, “basic Qigong” can be used as an energy and movement basis for anything, for example, for the practice of Eight Pieces of Brocade.

As a result of considering the Ba-Duan-Jin in the context of other Qigong practices, the following structure of the book was formed:

1. General Basics:

A. Philosophical principles (Yin-Yang, Wu-Xing, Ba-Gua) and their practical implementation.

b. Movement of energy throughout the body, energy channels and acupuncture points.

V. Formation of the body structure and the rules for its construction (stands, pillar work, positions of fingers and palms).

2. Ba-Duan-Jin complex. History, general principles, description of each exercise at the “motor” and “comprehensive” levels.

3. Chan-Mi-Gung School. Tradition, basic rules. From the entire wealth of methods of this system, we have selected only basic Qigong and methods of gaining and releasing energy as methods that are most easily “built in” into the Ba-Duan-Jin complex.

4. “Assembly instructions” – filling the Ba-Duan-Jin forms with the internal content of Chan-Mi-Gong.

Basics

– Madam, why are you leaving the sanatorium? ahead of schedule? After all, our clear mountain air cannot be compared with the smog that you breathe in your capital.

- That's the point. I love to see what I breathe.

In traditional Eastern schools, nothing or almost nothing is explained to the student (especially at the initial stages). Thus, the famous modern master of Tai Chi Chuan style Chen Feng Zhiqiang says about his teacher, the famous Chen Fake: “Mr. Chen was a man who said practically nothing.”

This is understandable. The student is given the right instructions, following which he will inevitably learn. The teacher simply does his job - he teaches honestly. He doesn't have to explain anything. The approach is simple: when the time comes, he will understand. If he doesn’t understand, it means it’s not fate.

However, times are changing and you can find a student who will meekly stand, for example, in a pillar for 2 hours a day (as was customary in traditional Wu Shu) or sit for 2 hours in the lotus position (as required in Chan Mi Gong for certain practices), is now probably no longer possible. In any case, in the West, this approach does not always work.

Serious masters value intelligent students extremely highly. This is because Asian systems are usually very complex and difficult to convey to a person with poor memory and an untrained mind. And a person with high intelligence can hardly be expected to do something until they explain to him what he is doing, why and why. In this regard, the transmission process changes somewhat: more and more explanations appear in it. Therefore, we decided to preface the direct description of practices brief description basics Although you may not understand anything, you can learn if you have the right instructions and follow them carefully. This “black box” approach is also very familiar to Westerners. For example, everyone works great on a computer and gets the necessary results, without completely understanding how it works.

Connection of Ba-Duan-Jin with other practices

All real things are the same, all fakes are different.

Statements by modern Chinese masters regarding the numerous techniques and styles taught in our time

Despite the apparent diversity of styles and practices, all traditional techniques have the same (or very similar) foundations. The fact is that over the centuries there has been a mixing and interpenetration of practices, which led to the selection of the most high-quality and effective of them. They look and have different names, they emphasize different things, but they are all connected in one way or another. This is useful to know because such knowledge provides a key, the essence of which can be formulated something like this: “you learn one thing, at the same time you understand many other things.”

Let's look at what the Eight Pieces of Brocade complex is associated with.

Generally accepted basic philosophical principles (Yin-Yang, Wu-Xing, Ba-Gua). For example, the Chinese describe anything in terms of Yin-Yang. In particular, this is clearly illustrated by the description of the physical form: top-bottom; left-right; retreat-advance; inhale-exhale, etc.

Diagram of energy movement throughout the body. It is described using a system of energy channels. Each piece of brocade activates one or more meridians associated with specific organs. Knowing the Jing-Lo system, you can understand (and use) the principles of the healing effect of each exercise of the Ba-Duan-Jin complex.

Building the correct shape of the physical body. This includes stances and the principles of forming the correct structure that can provide the body with a stable and comfortable position. Besides, correct position body is a prerequisite for normalizing the flow of Qi through the channels. If the structure is incorrect, then the flow of Qi is blocked in some places and the healing effect will never be achieved.

Pillar work. Generally speaking, standing in a pillar can be safely attributed to the practice of forming the correct structure. In addition, this is a completely separate type of Qigong, which allows you to combine the “five bows” of the body (arms, legs, back) and build a supporting frame 2-3 times faster than what happens, for example, when performing only forms of Tai Chi Quan. Another reason we will look at Zhuang Gong is that it can be combined with anything. In particular, the preliminary exercise of the given version of the Eight Pieces of Brocade represents one of the variants of the pillar.

Position of hands and fingers. As will be shown below, the shape of the palm and the position of the fingers are key point in the movement of Qi. Ba-Duan-Jin (piece 7, “punch”) also applies this effect. Therefore, we are looking at examples of finger Qigong, showing how working with fingers is used for health purposes and for massage while simultaneously softly padding the hands.

Military use. At first glance, it is clear that each exercise in the complex is directly related to Wu Shu. Moreover, this connection exists both at the internal level (just compare the requirements for the pose in Tai Chi Quan and Ba Duan Jin), and at the external level, present in each pose of the complex. The practical value of any piece of brocade can be illustrated by examples of almost any Wu-Shu style. We will not focus on this, we will only note this aspect to create a complete picture.

Philosophical principles

What in cryptology is called "permissive" language

Inside all eastern systems, despite their external sophistication, the same (few, simple and unsophisticated) philosophical principles are embedded. However, despite their brevity, they are practical and have long been used in astronomy, geography, mathematics, military affairs, medicine, health systems etc.

Perhaps one of the best remarks on this matter is given in, where in relation to the system of the five primary elements it is said something like this: “This system may seem primitive to Westerners, but it has one unexpected quality - it works.”

How well all this works can be judged by the fact that the binary system underlying modern computers was developed by Leibniz after studying the famous “Book of Changes” (I Ching). The great mathematician discerned in the outlines of the trigrams of the pre-heavenly Ba-Gua an arithmetic number with only two digits. He saw this as evidence of higher harmony and suggested that the book of the I Ching allows one to model the rational on the basis of its lines and outlines (the same fact was noted in Haupt’s book on the I Ching, published in 1753).

Leibniz practically used the linear ordering of trigrams according to Fusi (figure below), which implements the principle: “Heaven and Earth form a series, and changes are established within it” (in other words, Earth and Sky should occupy a place at the beginning and end, the remaining trigrams - between them).

This expresses the idea of movement from Yin to Yang, or the pattern of transformation of one trigram into another in the course of a universal cyclical process of change.

By representing the dashed line as 0 and the solid line as 1, and denoting the trigrams in the Fusi sequence by Boolean column vectors of length three and interpreting the latter as binary numbers, we can see that this sequence of trigrams represents a series of natural numbers from 0 to 7.

Representation of trigrams as binary numbers from 0 to 7

The result was binary arithmetic, created by Leibniz, which allows modern computers to represent countless objects (text, pictures, films, music) and perform an infinite variety of information processing and storage activities, based only on two basic concepts: 0 and 1 (Yin-Yang, True-False, yes or no, there is current in the conductor or not).

By and large, all Eastern philosophy rests on three pillars:

Yin-Yang principle (Tai Chi);

Five primary elements (U-Xing);

Eight trigrams (Ba-Gua).

A brief overview of these concepts is given below.

Yin-Yang

According to the Yin-Yang concept, all objects and phenomena existing in nature are divided into two opposite, but interdependent principles, the relations between which constitute the basic law of the existence of the material world.

Yin is similar in properties to water and is characterized as cold, downward and inward, dull, etc.

Yang is similar in properties to fire: hot, upward and outward, bright, etc.

The constant struggle between Yin and Yang is the driving force of change and development in the world.

The concept of Yin-Yang is illustrated by the symbol of the Great Ultimate ("Tai Chi"), which is a circle (more generally a ball) consisting of light (Yang) and dark (Yin) halves.

Otherwise, it is called Yin-Yang-Yu (“Yin-Yang Fish”) for its resemblance to copulating black and white fish.

A light circle inside a dark field (the white eye of a black fish) and a dark circle inside a light field (the black eye of a white fish) respectively mean the presence of “Yang inside Yin and Yin inside Yang.” The outer circle symbolizes the interaction of everything in the cycle of Tao, and the wavy line separating the light and dark parts represents the interaction of Yin and Yang. This line is never straight. If it were straight, it would mean that Tai Chi is in a stationary state. The curvature of the line shows that Tai Chi is in rotational motion, that is, both halves are constantly moving and changing, mutually reinforcing and restraining, maintaining their continuous balance and harmony. Their dependence on each other is well reflected in the old saying “Lonely Yang does not live long, Dowager Yin is short-lived.”