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Questions about storing Qi

By Archived User | Updated: Dec 31, 2021 | Published: Dec 31, 2021

Hello, I have questions related to controlling Qi. I have been practicing taiji for around a year. As I have been practicing taiji lately, I have noticed surges of energy flowing around; it actually feels quite intense after I finish. I asked my teacher about this and was told that at the beginning stages it is best not to really worry about Qi manipulation; however, she mentioned that there should be focus on the dantian during practice, and that I should keep the Qi in the dantian. My questions: what are some ways/methods of storing it there, and how can I actually start developing this skill?

I gather as much as possible from my teacher about things, but I am living in China. My Chinese is ok but not good enough to understand everything. Any input would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Matthew

Archived Comments

Comment by Archived User

There is no single answer. There are many different types of qi gong and meditations that involve storing and/or manipulating qi. Depending on the style of taiji you’re learning your teacher and the lineage might have a specific method that is best suited for you. I would recommend you start by asking her.

For simply storing or holding qi in the dantian standing and “holding (or hugging) tree” qi gong is probably one of the easiest and most strait-forward methods regardless of the lineage your training in.

Comment by Chad J. Dupuis, L.Ac.

Your teacher is of course the best person to ask. My guess is she is telling you what I tell my students and that is not to focus on it. It if best to just let whatever is going to happen, happen - otherwise without intending to you will create stagnation. As for storing, generally before and after form practice some period of standing meditation with -light- focus on the dantian should accomplish the grounding that she is referring to.

Comment by Archived User

Thank you for the responses! I’ll consider the suggestions.

Comment by Archived User

Hi Matthew,
Your questions is a normal and usual one a beginner may have besides the question of how to breath when doing the form. It tells me that you are doing the one thing my teacher emphasized when I began - “abdomen relaxed, breathing calm”. Why? Because people need to appreciate having a portion of their awareness focused on their dantian, which you obviously are doing. This focus allows for a relaxed diaphragm, lungs, and abdominal muscles so that you can take in and "store more qi. Sort of like an energy savings account. When this account is much fuller your teacher will begin to share with you ways to then use your mindfulness of your qi to distribute it in various systems of your body for your healing. But as the other respondents have written, this is not a process you need or want to rush in any way. Your qi will naturally store there as long as your mind is focused there. That is in the maxim: “where the mind goes, qi will go also”. Right now Matthew, enjoy your being in appreciation of yourself feeling the form, and always let your teacher know what you are experiencing. Welcome to the internal arts

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