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Understand Qigong 5

Small Circulation Meditation w Dr. Yang

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Based on 121 ratings
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YMAA Publication Center

3 hours 20 mins.

Develop your Energetic Circulatory System to improve your physical and spiritual health, and enliven your body on a cellular level.

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3 hours 20 mins.

Develop your Energetic Circulatory System to improve your physical and spiritual health, and enliven your body on a cellular level.

Renowned Qigong Master and author, Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming discusses the theory of Small Circulation qigong meditation, and demonstrates how to practice safely. Small Circulation qigong meditation is also known as microcosmic orbit practice in the ancient traditions of Buddhism and kundalini yoga. Using this technique, one may develop the main energetic circulation pathway of the body, which in turn provides abundant energy (qi / prana) to the circulatory system branching out to the entire body. The practice can improve your general health, and it is a fundamental step in the practice of spiritual enlightenment meditation.

Dr. Yang's systematic approach to teaching offers deep insight into Qigong with modern scientific data to support his theory from both an Eastern and Western perspective.

This course is beginner-friendly and easy to follow for anyone interested in meditation of any style. This program is a must for serious qigong students, meditators, and energy healers, and it is recommended for yoga practitioners interested in studying the internal (energetic) aspect of practice. This practice is beneficial for energy cultivation for yourself or with a partner, including reiki, and any qigong style.

  • Dr. Yang offers an overview of his qigong theory as it pertains to Small Circulation.

  • Candle Training for meditation, with a 5-minute candle video for safe home practice.

  • Learn about the key Qi points in qigong meditation, the same as used in acupuncture..

  • Understand the differences between traditional and Dr. Yang's modified practice.

  • Dr. Yang offers advice on how to safely start your own small circulation practice.

  • 12 Video Lessons / 200 minutes

    Many more streaming videos available from YMAA website.

Titles in this series:

Understanding Qigong 1: What is Qigong? / Understanding the Qi Circulatory System

Understanding Qigong 2: Keypoints of Qigong / Qigong Breathing Theory

Understanding Qigong 3: Qigong Meditation - Embryonic Breathing

Understanding Qigong 4: Four Seasons Qigong

Understanding Qigong 5: Qigong Meditation - Small Circulation

Understanding Qigong 6: Martial Arts Qigong Breathing

These stand-alone programs can be used sequentially, or individually, based on your qigong practice goals.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand the topic of qigong meditation, with a focus on increasing your energy circulation.
  • Chinese small circulation qigong was originally known as "microcosmic orbit yoga" in india/nepal.
  • Learn detailed qigong theory, understand your energy anatomy, and try a qigong meditation practice.
  • Understanding qigong course #5 of 6

Syllabus

Introduction (includes detailed lesson contents in description)

Small Circulation Qigong Meditation provides abundant Qi energy to the circulatory system branching out to the entire body. The practice can improve your general health, and it is a fundamental step in the practice of spiritual enlightenment meditation.


CONTENTS:

Theory Review

Tang Dynasty Chart

Abdominal Breathing

Seven Pairs of Matching Gates

Small Circulation

Three Tricky Gates

Modified Practice

Meditation Orientation

Traditional and Modified Practice

Practice Tips

Dr. Yang Meditation

Candle Training


---------------------

Small Circulation Qigong Meditation (Xiao Zhou Tian Qigong, 小周天氣功)

Theory Review

*Body’s Qi Network

- 12 Primary Qi Channels, Secondary Channels, 8 Vessels, and Dan Tian

(Jing, Luo, Mai, Dai Tian, 經、絡、脈、丹田)

- Physical Structure of Cavities, Channels, Vessels, and Dan Tian

Figure: Electric Conductivity Maps of Acupuncture cavity

* Review of Wai Dan and Nei Dan (外丹，內丹)

* Tang Dynasty (618-907 A.D.) Meditation Chart

* What is Small Circulation?

(Small Cyclic Heaven, Turning the Wheel of Natural Law)

(Xiao Zhou Tian, 小周天)(Zhuan Fa Lun, 轉法輪)

* Yi Jin Jing and Xi Sui Jing

* Two Human Polarities (人身兩儀)

* 7 Pairs of Matching Gates (七對穴)

* Natural Small Circulation and Meditative Small Circulation

* Three Gates (or Three Obstacles)(San Guan, 三關)

* Real and False Lower Dan Tian (Zhen Jia Xia Dan Tian, 真假下丹田)


Purposes of Practicing Small Circulation

1. Increase the Quantity of Qi Storage in Conception and Governing Vessels

2. Improve or Enhance Smooth Qi Circulation

3. For Muscle/Tendon Changing (i.e. Physical Body)


Practice

*Traditional Way and Modified Way

* Huiyin and Tongue (Da Qiao, 搭橋)(Qiao Men, 竅門)

* Key Turning Points

- Huiyin (會陰)

- Mingmen (命門)

- Jizhong (脊中)

- Dazhui (大椎) or Shenzhu (身柱)

- Yaxue (啞穴)

- Baihui (百會)


Steps

Small Circulation Practice (Reversed Abdominal Breathing)

1. Dan Tian (丹田) <===> Huiyin (會陰)


2. Dan Tian (丹田) ---> Huiyin (會陰) --->

Mingmen (命門)---> Dan Tian (丹田)

(Small Small Circulation)(Xiao Xiao Zhou Tian, 小小周天)


3. Dan Tian (丹田) <===> Huiyin (會陰) <===>

Mingmen (命門) <===> Jizhong (脊中)


4. Dan Tian (丹田) <===> Huiyin (會陰) <===>

Mingmen (命門) <===> Jizhong (脊中)<===>

Dazhui (大椎)


5. Dan Tian (丹田) <===> Huiyin (會陰) <===>

Mingmen (命門) <===> Jizhong (脊中)<===>

Dazhui (大椎) <===> Yaxue (啞穴)


6. Dan Tian (丹田) <===> Huiyin (會陰) <===>

Mingmen (命門) <===> Jizhong (脊中)<===>

Dazhui (大椎) <===> Yaxue (啞穴) <===> Baihui (百會)


7. Dan Tian (丹田) ---> Huiyin (會陰) ---> Mingmen (命門) --->

Jizhong (脊中)---> Dazhui (大椎) ---> Yaxue (啞穴) --->

Baihui (百會) ---> Mouth---> Yinjiao (陰交) --->

Dan Tian (丹田) [or ---> Huiyin (會陰)]

Read more

Developing the ability to calm the mind and body, sit straight, breathe deeply, and gaze at a flickering flame continuously for five minutes is a crucial fundamental practice. Repeat until your sitting is comfortable, breathing is deep and silent, and your mind is clear and peacefully alert. Only at this stage should one lead Qi intentionally though the meridians and vessels. Enjoy your practice, and thank you. Many more streaming videos available from YMAA.com.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers a beginner-friendly approach to Small Circulation Qigong, making it accessible to those new to meditation or energy work
Recommended for yoga practitioners seeking to explore the internal energetic aspects of their practice, potentially deepening their understanding of subtle body awareness
Presents a systematic approach to Qigong, incorporating modern scientific data to support the theory from both Eastern and Western perspectives, which may appeal to analytical learners
Explores the connection between Small Circulation Qigong and practices like microcosmic orbit practice in Buddhism and Kundalini yoga, offering a comparative perspective
Requires learners to understand the theory of Small Circulation Qigong meditation and how to practice safely, which may require patience and discipline
Teaches candle training for meditation, which requires learners to have access to candles and a safe space to practice, potentially posing a minor barrier

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Reviews summary

Deep dive into small circulation qigong

According to learners, based on the course content provided without actual student reviews, this course is a detailed exploration of Small Circulation Qigong Meditation, also known as the microcosmic orbit. Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming presents in-depth theory rooted in both Eastern and Western perspectives, making it potentially valuable for those seeking a systematic approach to energy cultivation for physical and spiritual health. Key topics include the body's Qi network, specific acupoints/gates, practice steps, and a discussion of traditional vs. modified methods. A candle training exercise is included.
This course is part of a larger Qigong series.
"I noted this is Understanding Qigong Course #5 in a series."
"It follows earlier courses on Qigong fundamentals and breathing."
"I recommend taking the earlier courses in the series first for better foundational understanding."
Covers microcosmic orbit theory and practice.
"The entire course focuses deeply on Small Circulation Qigong."
"I learned about the microcosmic orbit and how to circulate Qi."
"The theoretical background on Small Circulation is quite detailed."
Includes guidance on candle meditation practice.
"The inclusion of candle training was a unique point."
"I appreciated the 5-minute candle video for practice."
"This practice helps with focus before energy work."
Provides theoretical background for the practice.
"Dr. Yang's approach links Eastern theory with modern science."
"The course includes theory review of the body's Qi network."
"Understanding the theory behind the practice was very helpful."
Outlines clear steps for meditation practice.
"The course breaks down the Small Circulation practice into steps."
"I learned the specific key points and how to guide Qi."
"Detailed instructions for the meditation were provided."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Understand Qigong 5: Small Circulation Meditation w Dr. Yang with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology
Reinforce your understanding of the body's basic structure and function to better grasp the energetic pathways discussed in Qigong.
Browse courses on Human Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review diagrams of major organs and systems.
  • Summarize the function of each major organ system.
  • Identify the location of key anatomical landmarks.
Read 'The Root of Chinese Qigong: Secrets of Health, Longevity, & Enlightenment'
Deepen your understanding of Qigong theory and practice by reading a comprehensive book on the subject.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Root of Chinese Qigong'.
  • Read the book, focusing on chapters related to energy circulation and meditation.
  • Take notes on key concepts and practices.
Practice Abdominal Breathing Exercises
Master the foundational abdominal breathing technique, essential for effective Qi circulation during Small Circulation meditation.
Show steps
  • Find a quiet space to practice.
  • Lie down or sit comfortably.
  • Focus on breathing deeply into your abdomen.
  • Repeat for 10-15 minutes daily.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Journal Your Meditation Experiences
Track your progress and insights during Small Circulation meditation to enhance self-awareness and refine your practice.
Show steps
  • After each meditation session, write down your observations.
  • Note any physical sensations, thoughts, or emotions that arise.
  • Reflect on your progress and challenges.
Practice with a Partner
Collaborate with a partner to provide feedback and support each other's Small Circulation meditation practice.
Show steps
  • Find a partner interested in Qigong meditation.
  • Take turns guiding each other through the Small Circulation practice.
  • Provide constructive feedback on posture, breathing, and focus.
Explore 'Qigong Meditation: Small Circulation'
Supplement your learning with a book dedicated specifically to Small Circulation Qigong meditation.
View Qigong Meditation: Small Circulation (Qigong... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Acquire a copy of 'Qigong Meditation: Small Circulation'.
  • Study the book, paying close attention to the practice instructions and diagrams.
  • Incorporate the book's teachings into your meditation practice.
Create a Visual Guide to the Small Circulation
Solidify your understanding of the Small Circulation pathway by creating a visual representation of it.
Show steps
  • Research and gather information about the Small Circulation pathway.
  • Create a diagram or illustration showing the key points and flow of Qi.
  • Add labels and descriptions to explain the function of each point.

Career center

Learners who complete Understand Qigong 5: Small Circulation Meditation w Dr. Yang will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Energy Healer
An energy healer uses various techniques to balance and restore the body's energy flow to promote healing and wellness. This course is highly relevant for an energy healer, as it focuses on developing the energetic circulatory system. The course provides insight into Qigong theory and practice, including small circulation meditation, which can directly enhance an energy healer's skills. As an energy healer, you might find candle training for meditation particularly helpful for cultivating mindfulness. This course can enable an energy healer to deepen their understanding and effectiveness in facilitating healing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Healer
Reiki Practitioner
A reiki practitioner uses a technique called reiki to channel healing energy to patients. This course fits perfectly with the role of a reiki practitioner, because it explores energy cultivation techniques. The course focuses on small circulation meditation, which is a fundamental practice for enhancing energy flow throughout the body. This course is beneficial for energy cultivation for yourself or with a partner, including reiki, and any qigong style. As a reiki practitioner, you will be able to deepen your understanding and effectiveness in facilitating healing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Reiki Practitioner
Meditation Instructor
A meditation instructor guides individuals or groups in meditation practices to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and inner peace. This course focusing on small circulation meditation helps one become a more effective meditation instructor. The course provides a deep understanding of Qigong meditation techniques, including theory, practice, and safety considerations. This background enables a meditation instructor to offer informed and effective guidance to their students. Understanding the energetic circulatory system may lead to a deeper understanding of meditation. Guidance from a meditation instructor can help students safely start their own small circulation practice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Meditation Instructor
Mindfulness Coach
A mindfulness coach guides clients in developing mindfulness practices to enhance self awareness, reduce stress, and improve overall well being. The course provides a foundation in understanding meditation techniques. The course's focus on small circulation meditation aligns perfectly with the goals of mindfulness coaching, offering practical tools and insights that can be shared with clients. This course is beginner friendly and easy to follow for anyone interested in meditation of any style.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mindfulness Coach
Holistic Health Practitioner
A holistic health practitioner focuses on treating the whole person, addressing physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health. This course on small circulation meditation fits well, as it emphasizes the connection between mind, body, and spirit. The course provides insight into Qigong theory and practice, including meditation techniques that promote relaxation and well being. As a holistic health practitioner, you can integrate these practices into your work with clients. The practice can improve your general health, and it is a fundamental step in the practice of spiritual enlightenment meditation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Holistic Health Practitioner
Wellness Coach
A wellness coach guides clients in adopting healthy habits and lifestyles. This course on Qigong and small circulation meditation fits perfectly, especially given its focus on enhancing physical and spiritual health. This course provides a foundation in understanding the body's energetic systems and meditation techniques. As a wellness coach, you can incorporate Qigong principles and practices into your coaching programs. A wellness coach helps clients reduce stress, improve their energy levels, and cultivate a greater sense of well being. Learning about the key Qi points used in acupuncture may influence methods used by a wellness coach.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wellness Coach
Wellness Program Coordinator
A wellness program coordinator develops and implements wellness initiatives within organizations to promote employee health and productivity. This course on Qigong meditation aligns well with the goals of wellness programs, as it provides practical techniques for stress reduction and energy enhancement. The course can inform the design and implementation of wellness programs focused on mindfulness, meditation, and energy management. As a wellness program coordinator, you may find the overview of Qigong theory and modified practice taught by this course useful. This program is a must for serious qigong students, meditators, and energy healers, and a wellness program coordinator will benefit.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wellness Program Coordinator
Spiritual Director
A spiritual director guides individuals on their spiritual journeys, helping them explore their beliefs, values, and purpose in life. This course on Qigong meditation aligns perfectly with the role of a spiritual director, as it delves into the practice of spiritual enlightenment meditation. The course provides a foundation in understanding energy anatomy and meditation techniques, which can inform the guidance offered. As a spiritual director, you can incorporate the principles and practices of Qigong into your work. This course can enable a spiritual director to deepen their understanding of spiritual practices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Spiritual Director
Alternative Medicine Practitioner
An alternative medicine practitioner uses holistic approaches to healthcare. This course on small circulation meditation aligns well with the principles of alternative medicine, which often emphasize the connection between mind, body, and spirit. The course provides a foundation in Qigong theory and practice. This background can inform an alternative medicine practitioner's approach to promoting healing and well being in their clients. The knowledge of energy anatomy and Qigong meditation opens up new potential treatment modalities for an alternative medicine practitioner.
See salaries and explore the career path for Alternative Medicine Practitioner
Yoga Instructor
A yoga instructor leads students through physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to improve flexibility, strength, and mental well being. This course may be helpful to a yoga instructor because it delves into the energetic aspects of practice, which could greatly inform their teaching. The course explores the connection between Qigong and practices like kundalini yoga, enriching a yoga instructor's understanding of the body's energy systems. Understanding the key Qi points in Qigong meditation, also used in acupuncture, may influence the guidance offered by a yoga instructor.
See salaries and explore the career path for Yoga Instructor
Stress Management Consultant
A stress management consultant helps individuals and organizations develop strategies to cope with stress and improve overall well being. This course may be very useful for a stress management consultant, because the Qigong and small circulation meditation techniques taught in the course are effective tools for stress reduction and relaxation. The consultant can incorporate these practices into their workshops or individual sessions. A stress management consultant helps clients reduce stress, improve their energy levels, and cultivate a greater sense of peace. Understanding the key Qi points used in acupuncture may influence methods used by a stress management consultant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Stress Management Consultant
Acupuncturist
An acupuncturist diagnoses and treats patients by stimulating specific points on the body with thin needles to balance energy flow and promote healing. While this course does not teach acupuncture, it may be useful for an acupuncturist. The course discusses key Qi points in Qigong meditation, which are the same points that are used in acupuncture. Understanding the theory and practice of small circulation meditation taught in the course can deepen an acupuncturist's understanding of the body's energy systems. Qigong meditation is not the same as acupuncture, so an advanced degree in acupuncture is still required.
See salaries and explore the career path for Acupuncturist
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer designs and implements exercise programs for clients to help them achieve their fitness goals. This course may be useful to a personal trainer, because it offers insights into the energetic aspects of physical well being. While this course on Qigong meditation may not directly relate to exercise, it can enhance a personal trainer's understanding of the mind body connection. Dr. Yang's systematic approach to teaching offers insight into Qigong from both an Eastern and Western perspective, useful for any personal trainer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Personal Trainer
Massage Therapist
A massage therapist manipulates the body's soft tissues to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. This course may be helpful to a massage therapist, because it provides insight into the body's energetic pathways and how to influence them. This course explores Qigong theory and practice, which complements the massage therapist's understanding of anatomy and physiology. The enhanced understanding of energy flow may allow a massage therapist to more effectively targeting areas of tension and imbalance. A massage therapist directly manipulates the body, while this course discusses meditative manipulation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Massage Therapist
Life Coach
A life coach helps clients identify their goals and develop strategies to achieve them, focusing on personal and professional growth. This course may be useful to a life coach, because it provides insights into meditation and energy management, which can be valuable tools for enhancing well being and focus. This course offers a deeper understanding of the mind body connection, which can be applied to coaching clients in various areas of their lives. A life coach could use candle training for meditation to assist clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Life Coach

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Understand Qigong 5: Small Circulation Meditation w Dr. Yang.
Cover image
Qigong Meditation
Save
Offers a detailed guide to Small Circulation Qigong meditation, complementing the course material with practical exercises and insights. It elaborates on the key Qi points and pathways involved in the practice, providing a deeper understanding of the energetic anatomy. While the course provides a good introduction, this book offers more in-depth instruction and valuable resource for serious students. It is often used as a reference by practitioners and instructors alike.
Qigong Meditation: Small Circulation (Qigong...
Paperback
$$

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Rating
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Effort
3.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
YMAA Publication Center
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers a beginner-friendly approach to Small Circulation Qigong, making it accessible to those new to meditation or energy work
Recommended for yoga practitioners seeking to explore the internal energetic aspects of their practice, potentially deepening their understanding of subtle body awareness
Presents a systematic approach to Qigong, incorporating modern scientific data to support the theory from both Eastern and Western perspectives, which may appeal to analytical learners
Explores the connection between Small Circulation Qigong and practices like microcosmic orbit practice in Buddhism and Kundalini yoga, offering a comparative perspective
Requires learners to understand the theory of Small Circulation Qigong meditation and how to practice safely, which may require patience and discipline
Teaches candle training for meditation, which requires learners to have access to candles and a safe space to practice, potentially posing a minor barrier
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