During training the Bai Hui point becomes “open” to allow the point to perform its natural functions as described above. It also allows the body to absorb the energy of Heaven.

This “opening” of the point is a natural subconscious opening during tai chi, as opposed to a conscious “forced” opening during some forms of chi kung or meditation. The natural opening prevents low blood pressure but it does not raise blood pressure excessively to cause concern. It actually has a regulating effect on blood pressure.

However, the conscious forced opening that results from specific chi kung exercises or special breathing and meditation techniques can raise blood pressure in some people. Consciously sending Chi to Bai Hui should be avoided if you suffer from excess Yang, Fire or Wind in the head, which means that symptoms such as hypertension, dizziness or headache can develop or worsen. Yang has a natural tendency to rise to the head. Forcefully sending Chi to Bai Hui on a regular basis can further increase Yang, Fire and Wind in the head.

This is of special interest to practitioners of tai chi, dao yin and chi kung. In my experience, a very large number of Western students who attend these classes do so mainly for health reasons, leaving the pursuit of self defence a secondary consideration. Coupled with the fact that Western society is usually stressful and hectic, Excess Yang tends to build up and rise to the head.

A survey I conducted a while ago in Melbourne Australia indicated that many students suffer from some form of hypertension and Excess Yang rising. These two conditions are not easily detected by routine medical checks. Therefore, do not consciously practice sending Chi to Bai Hui in the early or beginning stages of training.

It is for these reasons that I recommend students to begin their practice with the sinking of Chi to the lower Dan Tian, an area the size of the palm just below the navel. Alternatively, Kidney 1 Yong Quan on the soles of the feet can be the point to which students practise sinking Chi rather than focusing directly on the upper Dan Tian points. Bai Hui, together with Yin Tang, the point between the eyebrows, are considered the upper Dan Tian.

It is accepted that focusing on Yin Tang rather than Bai Hui exposes the beginner to fewer harms. As you improve, you can progress with moving Chi to Yin Tang and Bai Hui, as well as through the small heavenly circuit, which includes the Governing and Conception Vessel meridians.

I prefer the sinking of Chi during training because it nourishes and promotes the benefits of Dan Tian cultivation, without running the risk of raising blood pressure unnecessarily. This technique is valuable in our modern society because Dan Tian cultivation also prevents stress, promotes relaxation, builds energy, focuses the mind and increases longevity.

Return to Tai Chi Healing Pressure Points