Yi Jin Jing (Tendon Muscle Strengthening Exercises)

The objective of Yi Jin Jing health qigong is to improve physical and mental health by combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and mental focus. The name "Yi Jin Jing" (易筋经) can be translated to mean "Muscle Tendon Change Classic" or "Muscle Tendon Transforming Qigong". "Yi" (易) means "change" or "transform", "Jin" (筋) means "muscles and tendons", and "Jing" (经) means "classic" or "scripture".

The name refers to the goal of the exercise, which is to strengthen and transform the muscles and tendons of the body through the practice of the postures, movements, and breathing techniques. The qigong is believed to be particularly effective in improving the strength and flexibility of the muscles and tendons, which can help prevent injury and promote overall health and well-being.

History

Yi Jin Jing was created over 1,500 years ago in China by the legendary monk Bodhidharma, who was also known as Da Mo. The exercise was developed to help his disciples improve their physical and mental health as well as their martial arts skills.

In addition to its traditional form, a modern version of Yi Jin Jing health qigong was designed by Wuhan Sports University in the 1980s and was later published by the Chinese Health Qigong Association in 2008. This modern version incorporates traditional postures and movements of Yi Jin Jing with modern sports science principles, making it more accessible and easier to learn for modern practitioners.

The modern form consists of 12 movements, each with a specific focus on stretching and strengthening different parts of the body, including the spine, shoulders, legs, and arms. The movements are performed in a slow, flowing manner, synchronized with deep breathing and mental focus.

Like the traditional form, the modern version of Yi Jin Jing health qigong is also recognized as an official form of qigong by the Chinese Health Qigong Association and is widely practiced in China and around the world. Its benefits are similar to those of the traditional form, including improved physical and mental health, reduced stress and anxiety, and increased energy levels.

Benefits

Practicing Yi Jin Jing health qigong is believed to provide several benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, relaxation, and overall health. It is also said to reduce stress and anxiety, enhance mental clarity and focus, and boost energy levels.

Yi Jin Jing health qigong is recognized as an official form of qigong by the Chinese Health Qigong Association and is widely practiced in China and around the world. Additionally, several studies have been conducted on the benefits of practicing Yi Jin Jing, supporting its effectiveness in improving physical and mental health.

Overall, Yi Jin Jing health qigong, both in its traditional and modern forms, is a highly respected and effective practice for promoting overall health and well-being, with a rich history and strong support from the Chinese Health Qigong Association and practitioners worldwide..