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Causes of illness

Causes of illness

by | 2727,Nov, 2023 | Health for everyone

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Internal and external causes

Chinese medicine is known as traditional medicine. Like all traditional medicine, it seeks, through its diagnosis, to identify the cause(s) of a pathology.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), health is the result of a healthy overall energy balance. Illness occurs when this balance is disrupted. TCM then focuses on re-establishing this balance.

Its diagnosis therefore focuses on the balance between organ health (yin) and organ function (yang). It also determines energy imbalances according to the theory of the five elements, each organ being linked to one of these five elements, or five energies.

TCM classifies the causes of illness into two main categories:

  • internal causes,
  • external causes.

Internal causes

One of the main factors of internal origin is our emotional state. Emotions and the way we experience them affect our organs. In this way, emotions experienced excessively, for too long, or on the contrary totally repressed, will cause energy imbalances over time.

Here’s an overview of how each emotion, linked in TCM to an organ and an element, impacts our health.

Schéma des trois réchauffeurs
  • Excessive anger and frustration, as well as repressed anger, damage the liver, hindering the free circulation of energy in the body. This energy stagnation can lead to pain, muscle tension, headaches or digestive disorders.
  • Hysteria, excitement, exaltation and excessive laughter can lead to an imbalance in the heart, disrupting sleep and even speech.
  • Obsessive thoughts, mental rumination and excessive intellectual work can unbalance the energy of the spleen, leading to digestive disorders, dizziness, a feeling of having one’s mind bogged down, fatigue on waking even after a long night’s sleep, and for women, menstrual disorders.
  • Sadness, regret, depression and melancholy will affect the lungs and the diffusion of energy in the body, and may result in spontaneous sweating, dyspnoea and a weak voice.
  • Fear, phobias, apprehension and paranoia will damage the kidneys and can generate chronic low back pain, incontinence, night sweats and sometimes tinnitus.

We won’t go into further detail here on the internal causes of illness, so as to focus on the external causes of the 5 climatic energies. There are, of course, other factors that can trigger illness besides internal and external causes.

External causes

Everyone has heard of the 5 elements (or 5 energies), but few know that this is a model or template that can be applied to many different fields. So, for TCM, the external causes of disease are linked to abnormal climatic variations, which are then perceived as pathogenic factors likely to invade the body and upset the Yin/Yang balance, thus generating a large number of illnesses.

These climatic anomalies, or climatic perversions, are thus classified according to the five-element theory into five climatic energies, each linked to an element as shown in the table below.

Wood Fire Earth Metal Water
Wind Heatwave Humidity Dryness Cold

Wind

Wind is a pathogenic factor in itself; it is Yang. It induces movement and generates other climatic phenomena. It propagates and displaces pathogenic elements. The wind we’re talking about here is, of course, the climatic factor, not the internal wind, which is a TCM-specific notion that we won’t go into here.

Femme avec parapluie renversé par le vent

Heatwave

Heatwave is Yang. It is extremely penetrating. It generates fire, as well as dryness. Heatwave penetrates the body following prolonged exposure to intense heat (sauna, sun). It produces perspiration, restlessness, thirst and fatigue. When it penetrates deeply, it can lead to urinary tract infections. Heatwaves lead to heatstroke.

When this heat comes from the transformation of pathogenic factors stagnating in the body, it is transformed into fire. Fire is an aggravation of internal heat.

Dryness

Dryness is Yang in nature, damaging the blood and drying out body fluids, leading to dehydration. It is produced either by a dry climate, or by drying phenomena (diarrhea, heavy sweating, repeated vomiting).

If the lungs are affected, a dry cough will develop. If the intestines are affected, some form of constipation will appear.

Cold

External cold penetrates as a result of prolonged exposure to cold, either by staying in cold places for long periods, or by frequent ingestion of cold food.

When there’s a lot of Cold, Yin becomes abundant, and too much Yin tends to injure Yang. When Cold blocks Yang’s dynamism, it can no longer perform its Qi management and warming functions, leading to illnesses characterized by a drop in the body’s activity: reduced vitality, exhaustion, chilliness.

This can lead to joint pains, aches and pains in the back, as well as intestinal pain and diarrhea. Other examples include lumbago and stomach flu.

Humidity

TCM considers Dampness to be heavy and sticky. It tends to sink or stick close to the ground, and is difficult to get rid of. We readily associate it with something improper or murky… fungi, molds and algae thrive in damp environments. It is on the basis of these particular characteristics of Humidity that TCM qualifies different states of the organism.

Humidity is of the Yin type, and therefore injures the body’s Yang energy. It is caused by exposure to a humid climate. Humidity hinders movement, slowing everything down.

It causes a feeling of heaviness, general fatigue, joint pain with swelling, the sensation of a crowded head, abdominal distension and loose stools.

Humidity often affects the lower part of the body and the pelvis (leucorrhoea may appear). In extreme cases, moisture in the body is transformed into mucus, which can cause cysts, tumors or circulatory disorders (excess cholesterol in the blood). The spleen is also affected. Moisture damages the spleen, which is no longer able to perform its transformative function properly.

Resisting climate perverts

Of course, these climatic perversions do not affect individuals in the same way. An individual’s ability to resist these perversions depends on his or her capacity to resist, and therefore on the strength of his or her Zheng Qi. Zheng Qi can be translated as Straight Qi or Correct Qi.

Zheng Qi is thus the synthesis of the vital Qi that ensure the proper functioning of the organs, Qi and Blood, as well as the Yin/Yang balance and harmony between the body and its environment.

This is why the strength of Zheng Qi will determine whether or not an individual falls ill. The climatic perverse is merely the triggering factor.

Fatigue according to the 5 elements

In TCM, the 5-element theory is applied in various fields. It also applies to fatigue. Before we reach the point of exhaustion or “burn-out”, let’s take a look at our state in terms of the 5 energies.

Wood-type fatigue

Physical signs: excessive sighing, premenstrual syndrome, irregular periods, lump in the throat, tendon tension…

Emotional state: irritable, moody, impatient, too many expectations of self, perceived as “aggressive” OR as a doormat.

Causes: constant stress, feeling trapped, tight schedules, frustration, agitating environmental factors (too much noise, frequent disagreements, etc.).

Fire-type fatigue

Physical signs: restless sleep, memory loss, flushed feeling, spontaneous sweating, heart palpitations.

Emotional state: controlling, feelings of rage, excessive vulnerability, significant lack of joy.

Causes: lack of intimacy with self, prolonged exposure to other people’s negativity.

Earth-type fatigue

Physical signs: tiredness after meals, loose stools, bloating, lazy legs

Emotional state: unmet needs, feeling misunderstood, longing for things other than those already acquired, jealousy.

Causes: overthinking, sitting too long or too often, poor diet.

Metal-type fatigue

Physical signs: tired after long talks, shortness of breath, sweats easily, tired after exercise, feels cold, gets sick easily, chronic cough, prone to allergies, chronic fatigue, eczema.

Emotional state: overly critical, hard on self or others, demanding precision/overly perfectionist, “unfair”, sense of loss and grief, quickly cuts ties, holds grudges.

Causes: very frequent use of voice (e.g. teachers), untreated grief, hereditary factors, lower gastrointestinal problems.

Water-type fatigue

Physical signs: adrenal fatigue, hair loss, low back pain, cold limbs, low libido, erectile dysfunction, fertility problems, urinary frequency.

Emotional state: difficulty staying still, “too tired”, restless, anxious, fearful, worried about money, overly tolerant of risk OR frozen in fear.

Causes: prolonged periods of overwork, persistent anxiety/fear.

Tuina

Tuina

by | 3131,Jul, 2023 | medical

An ancestral energy technique

According to the ancient Chinese, animals practised massage long before humans did. They used it for comfort, grooming and even healing. So it’s only natural that humans, because of their animal instincts, should have used massage on themselves, their children or their partners. We all know the reflex of immediately rubbing an area of our own body after receiving a blow.

Chinese massage is therefore considered to be the oldest branch of Chinese medicine. Massage techniques have evolved, refined and systematised over the centuries. Tuī Ná is the culmination of this science, born of this natural instinctive gesture.

Old writings dating back to the Shang dynasty (1800 BC) describe massage methods for treating infants.

The most famous ancient text on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)’ Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine), completed between the first century BC and the first century AD, includes passages on the use of these massage techniques and their use in the treatment of certain illnesses.

Chinese massage is listed as a major treatment method. Since the Wei and Jin dynasties (220 – 420 AD), Tuī Ná massage departments have been official specialities in the Chinese government health system.

One branch of TCM

Tuī Ná, literally to push (tui – 推) and to grasp (na – 拿), is a discipline in its own right in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is also sometimes referred to as An Mo (按摩), which refers to massage in general and means ‘calming through touch’.

Tuī Ná massage therefore obeys the Taoist principles that underpin this medicine based on energy balance.

The practice of Tuī Ná is therefore specifically Chinese, and takes account of the meridians and acupuncture points. Tuī Ná comprises around thirty techniques and manoeuvres designed either to disperse energy blockages or to stimulate or tone up the qi or vital energy. These techniques include “mo fa”, which means circular rubbing, “Ya fa” or overpressure, and “ma fa”, which means wiping (or rubbing). It also includes massage of certain acupuncture points (acupressure), stretching techniques and joint mobilisation.

By acting on reflex zones, this massage balances and stimulates both body and mind. Its aim is to circulate and rebalance energies, which also has an impact on emotional balance, since in TCM everything is linked. In fact, any muscular or ligament tension will lead to an energy blockage, affecting the free circulation of qi and therefore overall health. Similarly, a strong emotional charge can, over time, lead to energy blockages and even muscular tension. This can lead to pain.

Numerous health benefits

 

Tuī Ná massage is generally performed without oil, sometimes on clothing or through a piece of cotton cloth. It promotes the proper functioning of the organs, particularly through acupuncture points, thus preventing illness from taking hold. It is also effective in reducing or even eliminating muscle and joint pain.

According to modern research, Tuī Ná is a therapy that regulates the circulatory system, the respiratory system, the endocrine system, the immune system and the nervous system. It also aids digestion and improves muscle and skin metabolism.

Among other things, it has been shown to : 

  • Alleviating the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
  • Reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia
  • Improving dizziness associated with cervical osteoarthritis
  • Relieve the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhoea
  • Contribute to the treatment of cervical radiculopathy

 

The qualities of a Tuī Ná practitioner

It’s difficult to explain in technical terms what makes a good Tuī Ná, because it’s all about energy.

That’s why a Tuī Ná practitioner needs several years’ training in this energetic dimension.

According to the tradition of Chinese medicine, he will first take care to develop his energy through disciplines such as qi gong, tai chi and even kung fu. These practices will enable them both to optimise their own vital energy and refine their sensitivity to perceive and identify the energies around them. They will spend time in nature, learning the language of plants. They can also learn to understand and use the healing energy of sacred places. Over time, they will be able to feel stagnant energy and blood.

In fact, a good Tuī Ná massage depends on the practitioner’s energy, his feeling and his ability to transmit energy. This presupposes that the practitioner is well anchored to the ground, with joints that are supple and relaxed, in order to guarantee a good flow of energy. The breath should be abdominal and full. If they are tense, they won’t be able to deliver the same quality of energy. The whole body is involved in the massage.

This is why a good Tuī Ná massage is a genuine therapeutic tool that has a profound effect. Although it can often be painful, it is nonetheless life-saving.

Awaken your inner Tuī Ná masseur!

We encourage everyone to find the ultimate bliss. Since massage is instinctive and natural, why not give it a go? We suggest you start by working on deep relaxation and breathing. You can do this by practising tai ji tchuan, qi gong or any other mindfulness practice.

At the same time, you can start Tuī Ná with friends and family. To do this, put on loose-fitting clothes, release all your tension and start with a technique. Initially, you should not exceed ten minutes. Then debrief with your partner so that they can express their feelings.

You can use this simple video as inspiration. Don’t hesitate to spend time in nature or with your favourite animal before practising Tuī Ná. Practising this art will develop your feelings and help you to reconnect with yourself. This will gradually improve your health.

Never practise Tuī Ná in the following circumstances:

  • A bad mood or upset
  • After an argument
  • In a state of great sadness or anger
  • Immediately after your secular work
  • In the event of illness

This list is not exhaustive. As you will have realised, massage is an exchange. So it’s with a warm heart that you offer the best to those around you… and to yourself.

The acupuncture

The acupuncture

by | 3030,May, 2023 | medical

An energy therapy that spans time

Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine, which dates back thousands of years. Its exact origins are shrouded in legend and myth. But it is estimated that the medical practices behind acupuncture began in China over 2,000 years ago.

According to legend, acupuncture was discovered by accident. A Chinese healer noticed that pain in certain parts of the body could be relieved by inserting needles into other parts of the body. This observation led to the development of acupuncture as a healing technique.

The use of acupuncture spread in China over the centuries. Practitioners developed complex systems of acupuncture points and specific techniques to treat various disorders. Acupuncture is often combined with other therapeutic techniques, such as moxibustion and cupping.

Over time, acupuncture spread to other parts of Asia, then gradually became popular throughout the world. The word acupuncture was coined by the Jesuits in the 16th century when they discovered Chinese medicine; its real name is Zhēn Jiǔ, meaning the art of metal needling and moxibustion.

A Taoist vision of Man and the Universe

Acupuncture was introduced to Europe in the 17th century by Willem Ten Rhyne, a Dutch physician, but really took off in the mid-20th century. Scientific studies are regularly carried out to evaluate its effectiveness. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) an “official medicine”. Acupuncture, an integral part of TCM, is therefore recognized as a medical technique.

According to UNESCO, “Traditional Acupuncture is a therapeutic art which bases its diagnostic and therapeutic reasoning on a Taoist energetic vision of Man and the Universe”.

Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chi”), which is considered a vital force present throughout the universe and within the human body. According to Chinese medicine, when Qi circulates freely and is balanced in the body, health is present; conversely, blockages or imbalances in Qi can lead to health problems.

Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body by inserting fine metal needles into the skin at varying depths. The needle has a sleeve, often made of twisted copper alloy, which acts as an antenna to let the qi flow in and out. These acupuncture points are located along energy channels called meridians, which are considered to be the circulation routes for Qi in the body.

Acupuncture meridians

Acupuncture meridians, also known as energy channels, are the invisible pathways through which Qi (vital energy) flows in the body, according to TCM.

A complex network of meridians connects different parts of the body, forming an interconnected energy system. According to TCM, these meridians carry the vital energy called Qi throughout the body. There are 12 main meridians associated with specific organs and named after them. For example, the liver meridian is associated with liver function, the bladder meridian with urinary function, and so on. Each meridian has a specific course through the body, and passes through specific acupuncture points.

The most commonly used points number 361, but there are over 1000 acupuncture points in the body. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ and physiological function.

Each meridian is associated with specific characteristics, such as times of day when its energy is most active, seasons of the year, emotions and symptoms that may be linked to its imbalance.

For example, the lung meridian is associated with autumn, sadness and respiratory problems.

Freeing the flow of Qi

When Qi is blocked or unbalanced, the practitioner of Chinese medicine looks to see which meridians are affected. A diagnosis is then made, and a therapeutic strategy defined. Inserting acupuncture needles into the points will restore energy balance by stimulating the flow of Qi, and releasing energy blockages.

The needles are left in place for a certain length of time (usually between 20′ and 45′), and can also be stimulated by different means (manual, electrical, moxibustion). Acupuncture brings about a global rebalancing of this energy network, which in turn affects organ function. As the acupuncture sessions progress, balance returns and health is restored.

Sometimes, acupuncture treatment can be combined with a prescription for Chinese pharmacopoeia. The number of sessions required will depend on the individual patient and how he or she responds to the treatment. In general, the longer the illness or disorder, the more time (and therefore acupuncture sessions) will be needed to overcome it. Conversely, an acute, mild or recent disorder can be resolved in one or two sessions.

The many benefits of acupuncture

The benefits of acupuncture are many. It can help relieve pain, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality and strengthen the immune system.

It can also be used to treat menstrual disorders, fertility problems and sleep disorders. This list is far from exhaustive…

In certain rare cases, there may be an over-reaction after an acupuncture session, which may suggest a worsening of symptoms. But don’t panic, as everything usually returns to normal within a few hours.

In some Asian countries, notably China and Vietnam, although allopathic medicine has taken on a major role, people still turn to their ancestral medicine when they don’t get the results they expect from so-called Western medicine.

The meridian network

What has been translated as meridian is called in Chinese 经络 Jīng Luò, meaning “meridians and collaterals”. Jīng 经, before referring to “meridian”, means “to pass through”, or “channel”. Luò 络 translates as “entwined”, “continuous”. So the Jīng Luò constitute a network of intertwined, continuous channels that allow you to “pass through”.

The main channels all communicate with each other. This inter-connection is supported by other smaller, or secondary, channels called luò (collaterals). They are fundamental in connecting all parts of the body.

The existence of this vast network explains the holistic vision of TCM. This network extends throughout the entire body. Consequently, to act on one part is to act on the whole entity. Conversely, it is impossible to isolate a part without considering it as a whole. The network principle is fundamental to understanding how acupuncture works.

Channels and collaterals, like rivers, allow free circulation. This means the free circulation of the fundamental TCM substances qì (气), blood (血 xuè) and body fluids (浸液 Jìn yè). In classical texts, there are numerous images referring to the circulation of qì and blood in the body, likening them to rivers and seas. The names of many acupuncture points refer to this, such as Qū chí (LI11) the elbow basin, Chǐ zé (Po5) the ulnar swamp, Qì hǎi (Ren6) the qì sea, Fù liū (Rn7) restore the current, to name but a few. The term 经 Jīng itself can be translated as river.

The menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle

by | 2828,Feb, 2023 | medical

Putting an end to premenstrual syndrome

Menstruation is a sign of fertility and good health. The menstrual cycle is unique to each woman.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the way the menstrual cycle unfolds gives valuable information about the body’s energy balance. All women should have a regular, light and painless cycle lasting 3 to 7 days.

However, few women have the above criteria perfectly met. Emotional tensions, climate, lifestyle, can disturb the hormonal balance and thus disrupt the cycle. Let us consider the vision of TCM to understand this phenomenon and its disturbances.

The menstrual cycle is influenced by the quality and quantity of Qi (vital energy) and blood. It also depends on the yin and yang energies and on the proper functioning of the spleen, liver, kidneys and heart.

The blockage of the circulation of Qi and blood flow, or stagnation, causes pain and swelling in the abdomen in women; it leads to disturbances in menstrual cycles such as dysmenorrhea or even amenorrhea…

The central organ of menstruation, reproduction and pregnancy is the uterus. The uterus is intimately linked to the kidney according to TCM. It is a hollow entrails like the yang entrails but it ensures a yin functioning (to produce, to transform). When we use the term uterus in TCM, we include the tubes and the ovaries.

The uterus needs a proper supply of blood to ensure menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth. Qi and blood are interdependent on each other.

The energetic influence of the cycle on the woman

The week of the period is a yin week, that is to say an energy of withdrawal. It is the winter of the cycle, a time of introspection, of silent self-presence. It is a week to listen to your dreams, develop your intuitions and let go. By eliminating blood, the kidneys can generate fear. We waste a lot of energy trying to understand everything that happens to us. This is precisely the role of emotions.

Once the period is over, the woman enters a Yáng energy. Turning towards the outside, she finds a more sustained rhythm, gets back into movement, in a Yáng (masculine) dynamic. The action of the liver allows her to come out of the winter. It is for the woman the moment to express her true self.

Still in this Yáng energy of opening towards the outside comes the week of ovulation; the woman is more connected to unconditional love. She feels a sense of fulfillment, a supreme joy with a broader consciousness and a sense of new humanity. Radiant, even irresistible, she needs a great deal of energy.

After a fortnight or so of being outwardly focused in a Yáng energy, the woman turns inward again in a Yin movement. The rhythm slows down. There is no need to keep a high rhythm, otherwise tension and pain will be created. For some women, premenstrual symptoms can reach hysteria. It is therefore time to take time for yourself, and to do yourself good by taking care of your skin, hair or simply by massaging.

The origin of menstrual disorders

During menstruation, we are informed about the quantity and quality of blood. Empty blood gives early menstruation, pale blood, pain before the flow arrives. Heat in the blood gives a bright red blood, early menstruation, very abundant and painful. Blocked qi causes irritability, anger, headaches, insomnia, tension in the breasts, pain and tension in the lower abdomen. The liver stores blood and regulates its volume. A lack of blood in the liver can lead to a very small amount of menstruation, or even no menstruation at all. The function of procreation can even be questioned if the liver does not supply enough blood to the uterus.

Blocked liver qi causes blood stasis, with black clots and pain before and during menstruation. Conversely, Liver fire accelerates the movement of blood, which leads to bleeding outside the cycle or very heavy periods.

Des règles sans douleur grâce à la MTC

As the menstrual cycle is influenced by the quality of the Qi (vital energy) and the quantity of blood, it is important to rebalance the related organs. We will focus on the balance of Yin and Yang energies. We will also focus on the proper functioning of certain organs such as the spleen, liver, kidneys and heart. This work will also have an impact on emotional tensions, and will restore hormonal balance. Thus, to unblock the circulation of Qi and blood flow, in order to reduce pain, Chinese medicine proposes the following solutions:

A formula of plants adapted to each case;
Acupuncture that alleviates or even eliminates physical and emotional symptoms related to PMS: lower back pain, cramps, acne, sensitive breasts, mood swings, irritation, nervous fatigue, etc. Our patients generally start to feel an improvement after one to three sessions on average.
In order to reduce the symptoms, we also recommend that you review your diet and encourage rest and sleep. These factors have a considerable impact on hormonal balance.
Finally, we recommend regular practice of Qi Gong in order to re-establish a good circulation of blood and Qi. This helps to relieve pain and various other symptoms related to menstruation.

The new disorders of female cycles

Since the waves of vaccination against “Covid 19”, we are witnessing a multiplication of new symptoms related to the menstrual cycle and fertility.

We receive many women in treatment who complain of extreme fatigue and disturbances of their cycles. Some complain of not having their periods for several months, or of having very irregular cycles, one month with, one month without…

Finally, we receive patients who complain of excessive menstruation, which generates, in addition to a major discomfort, an extreme weakness due to lack of blood.

We also observe at the diagnostic level a generalization of the phenomena of stagnation of blood and qi, which implies a major increase of blood clots in the periods.

Finally, we have seen an increase in miscarriages which are naturally linked to a lack of energy in the Kidneys and the Spleen, and even in the Heart, and to poor blood circulation.

We have been able to treat these new disturbances effectively, even if it takes longer to rebalance the energies in vaccinated people.

Wuji, or « the summit of nothingness »

Wuji, or « the summit of nothingness »

by | 3131,Dec, 2022 | healingArt

The Wuji posture is a powerful healing tool

Wuji is both a Taoist principle and a Qi gong posture. It is the latter that we will be particularly interested in here. Wuji is indeed a practice of great apparent simplicity, and yet of infinite richness for those who wish to cultivate a healthy mind in a healthy body.

Wuji is the first posture of Qi Gong called Wu Dang. It is a posture that is practiced standing still. “Wuji” means “without extremes”. This term, originating from Taoist philosophy, refers to the state of undifferentiated chaos that precedes creation. It is therefore the origin of Taiji, the yin and yang movement. We can therefore say that Taiji is born from Wuji.

Wuji is the creative void in the sense of “creative mind”; it is a void full of consciousness.

The posture is practiced with the feet together or shoulder-width apart. The knees and elbows are relaxed, therefore not locked. The trunk is straight. The breathing is ample and natural. The gaze is distant. The practitioner observes his thoughts, without intervening in their flow, his mind is empty.

By emptiness, the Taoists do not mean nothingness, but rather a state of total potentiality, not yet manifested but containing all the possibilities of creation. The state of Wuji precedes manifestation, and therefore action.

For Taoists, the ultimate nature of our mind is absolute emptiness, in other words, absolute potential. Thus, consciousness in its ultimate nature of absolute potentiality, becomes absolute awakening. To fully embody Wuji, one must unify, reach the unity between body and mind (the ONE).

Develop your vital energy

By relaxing and emptying himself, the practitioner makes himself available. Like an antenna erected between the Earth (material world) and Heaven (spiritual world), he places himself in a state of receptivity. He becomes ready for everything and nothing at the same time. The practice of Wuji is therefore an invitation to enter into contact with the field of all possibilities in order to gradually order oneself internally, in total harmony with Nature.

With time, a few weeks or months of practice, the practitioner settles into this state of coherence and harmony. Practising the Wuji posture, in a prolonged and regular manner, increases awareness and presence to oneself.

The practice of Wuji allows the cultivation and development of the root energy of man, his vital energy, the Jing. It promotes the free flow of energy (Qi) and allows the participant to know the true nature of his or her mind.

Listening to the body increases vital energy and strengthens “mindfulness”; it develops compassion towards other beings, a quality that is essential for health.

What one feels in this practice is a sensation of calmness, which reaches the body and then gradually the mind. This calmness, with time, brings a feeling of serenity. The practice of Wuji is a form of standing meditation which allows us to cultivate our vital energy (our Jing); it therefore has a healing effect and increases longevity.

Moreover, we will notice in the practice that the more attentive we are to the surrounding perceptions, as well as to the internal sensations, the less active the mind is and the more energized we feel.

The prolonged practice of Wuji contributes to the deconditioning of the mind (ego) in its tendency to bring everything back to itself, to comment or judge everything, or to wander from one idea to another.

A stronger mind in a healthier body

Thus the regular practice of Wuji :

  • prevents one from being the object of one’s emotions according to their whims. It allows you to distance yourself from them;
  • helps to stabilize the agitated mind and improves the quality and duration of concentration;
  • provides a kind of serenity and joy that extends beyond the practice into daily life. It is the beginning of a mutation that invites us to change our view of events in our lives, our relationships, others, our thought structures and our emotions. This gaze becomes more relaxed, more open, with an increased capacity to adapt.

This motionless posture therefore strengthens and cultivates the vital energy Jing; it improves the circulation of energy (Qi) in the meridians by making it more fluid. This has the effect of releasing energy blockages.

Moreover, the practice of Wuji, like all Qi Gong practices, contributes to strengthening our Spirit and improving the quality of our states of consciousness. Finally, it develops in us an increasingly sharp sense of awareness.

Wuji is therefore infinitely beneficial when it is practised with respect for its principles (correct posture, relaxation, breathing), as well as with regularity and constancy. Do not be deceived by its apparent simplicity. Because before reaching serenity, you may experience pain while tensions are being released, impatience, or even disturbing emotions. 

Like many of these Chinese practices, the practice of Wuji requires real work, a commitment in the moment and over time. It is only at this price that it delivers all its treasures. And that we discover its wonderful healing power.

Some tips for your practice

Listen to your body: what is happening in your joints, your tensions, your breath. Observe, without judging, and constantly adjust your posture to achieve total relaxation. Relaxation is indeed the key.

Your posture, although relaxed, is straight. Make sure your back is straight. The weight of your body rests heavily on your feet. The upper body is light and as if suspended by a rope from the sky. This way the spine is completely free.

Slow down the cycle of your breathing and gradually increase its amplitude. This breathing is abdominal. By concentrating on your breathing, your body will gradually calm down, and nervous movements or impulsive reactions will cease during the practice.

However, it is important to remain joyful. Maintain a state of well-being and a benevolent outlook. Cultivate your inner smile and allow a feeling of fullness, and love, to flow through your body. Embrace these sensations with tenderness and gentleness.

For beginners it is recommended to be accompanied by a Qi gong or Tai chi master.