Tai Chi Healing Pressure Points Techniques
Dan Tian Breathing

In Tai Chi, the direct application of healing pressure point Bai Hui Governor Vessel 20 as a remedy is limited. It is not a very comfortable point to massage. However, it is a very effective point used in clinical acupuncture to raise Yang, for example in prolapses or serious depletion of energy.

Provided you do not suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) Bai Hui is best used during Chi Kung, where Chi is intentionally sent to reach Bai Hui at the top of the head. If you are an advanced student, the small heavenly circuit breathing and meditation technique serves this best.

For reasons I have already mentioned, I have found that in Western society it is better to concentrate Chi in the lower Dan Tian in order to prevent the negative effects of stress from impacting on our mind and body.

For the beginner student or those unfamiliar with Chi Kung or Dao Yin practice, I recommend the following Dan Tian or Buddha-belly breathing meditation exercise to promote good health and well-being and to prevent Excess Yang Chi rising to the head.

It is a simple yet effective exercise. It also gives tremendous mental focusing power. The key lies in the combination of a breathing technique plus mental focus on the lower Dan Tian.

Some Tai Chi Pre-exercise Tips:

- With your breath fill up your Dan Tian.

- Do not take very large breaths as this can lead to hyperventilation or cause dizziness. Therefore breathe to about ninety percent of your capacity.

- Breathe through your nose at all times.

- Close your mouth and have the tip of your tongue touch the roof of your mouth.

- Lower your shoulders. Do not tense or raise them.

- Have your spine erect but in a natural position. If you are sitting, do not slouch.

- Place your feet squarely on the ground.

Dan Tian Breathing Technique

1. Fully relax your physical body

2. Calm your mind

3. Bring your mind to your Dan Tian, the ‘sea of energy’ area about four centimeters below your navel. See that area in your mind’s eye, the third eye, or point Yin Tang.

4. Place both your palms there, one on top of the other. Men place their left palm on the Dan Tian with the right palm resting on top of the left. Women should reverse this palm placement.

5. As you inhale, use your mind to lead your breath to your Dan Tian. Expand your belly outwards and feel your palms move forward.

6. Exhale and let your abdomen return to its natural position.

After you become more skilled at this, you may try other more advanced techniques such as those described in Dr Pier Tsui-Po's books and DVD Superfocusing and Healing secrets of Ancient China.

Keep in mind that in the practice of the internal arts such as tai chi, dao yin and chi kung, the aim is to promote better health and harmony, and to unify Heaven, Earth and Humanity. Heaven is reached with Bai Hui, Earth with Kidney 1 Yong Quan and Humanity with Conception Vessel 21 Xuan Ji.

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