Yi Jin Jing is an exercise derived from Dao Yin Qigong consisting of 12 movements that are performed in a standing position. It is simple to learn and suitable for people of all ages. It is the most renowned and popular of all the classic Chinese Qigong meditation exercises.
In ancient China, the monk Bodhidharma saw the need for monks at the Shaolin Temple to do some limbering meditation exercises as too much sitting meditation could lead to poor health and stagnation of Qi flow. So he developed some exercises by combining Martial Arts and Dao Yin Qigong to help the monks get fitter. As the years went by the Shaolin Monks modified and perfected these exercises to eventually form a special system called Yi Jin Jing, The Tendons and Sinews Limbering Exercise – yi meaning change, jin meaning tendons and sinews, and jing meaning methods.
As with all Yang Sheng or Life Enhancement exercises the focus is on the cultivation of vital energy (Qi or Chi), promoting the optimal function of internal organs and Qi circulation. Regular practise can help promote physical and mental well-being, prevent illness, strengthen the body, help improve balance and coordination, and even prolong life.
