The Taoist Method of Daoyin and Qi Circulation

The Taoist method of daoyin (guiding and pulling exercises) and qi circulation comes from the Seven Slips from the Cloudy Satchel (Yunji Qiqian). Its movements are simple, and it centers on regulating the breath and circulating qi.

1. After midnight or before noon, let your hair down, face east, clench both hands into fists, hold your breath, and regulate your breathing. Then raise both hands and guide them to the left and right, and use your palms to massage both ears.

2. Lie flat on your back and draw in qi three times. Then pinch and press the sinews at the back of the neck (around the Fengchi point) with your fingers three times.

3. Sit upright facing east, and hold the breath and regulate it five times. Dab the middle fingers of both hands into the saliva in your mouth 14 times, then rub your palms together and gently massage both eyes.

4. Sit upright facing east, and hold the breath and regulate it three times. Press and knead both sides of the nose with your index fingers.

5. Sit upright facing east, and hold the breath and regulate it four times. Tap your upper and lower teeth together several dozen times.

6. Lie face down or on your side, and hold the breath and regulate it six times.

7. Lie curled up, and hold the breath and regulate it seven times.

8. Lie down hugging your knees with both hands, and hold the breath and regulate it eight times.

9. Remove your pillow, clench both hands into fists, hold your breath, and lie flat with your head toward the east; hold the breath and regulate it nine times.