導引 Tao Yin (or Dao Yin)

Tao Yin is a series of breathing exercises practiced by Taoists to cultivate chi.

The practice of Tao Yin was a precursor of qigong,and was practised in Chinese Taoist monasteries for the development of spiritual awareness and general bodily health.

It is also said to be a primary formative ingredient in the well-known "soft style" Chinese martial art, Tai Chi Ch'uan.

A typical Tao Yin exercise will involve movement of the arms and body in time with controlled inhalation and exhalation.

What are the benefits of Tao Yin exercises?

The exercises are believed to assist in the opening up of chi channels through the whole body. Thereby enhancing the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, increasing the mental capacity of the brain, giving greater mind control, increasing perception and intuition, uplifting moral standards, and giving tranquillity to the mind.

It is believed that over time these exercises slowly open up the functional and control channels that feed and activate the energy, nervous and psychic centres, enabling the individual to have a deeper understanding, consciousness and awareness of the spiritual world.

DISCLAIMER

Don't start any exercise or fitness program without carefully assessing your state of health and level of physical conditioning, and consulting with your personal physician when and where appropriate.

Every exercise program carries some type of risk.  On the other hand, not doing any exercise or fitness activities carries a far greater risk for your loosing your good physical and mental health, well being, vitality and happiness.