Spring Qi Chats | Week 5
Link and lengthen
This week we discuss how Pai Da (the patting method) is tendon training & how you can reduce joint pain with this Spring Routine!
The Sinews
The sinews are connected to the Liver System in Chinese Medicine. As we enjoy the season of the Wood element we can focus on our roots and branches of our movement, teaching us to train the ligaments and tendons of the joints. During the Spring, the exercise method of Pai Da 拍打功 is encouraged. The exercise of patting qigong can strengthen the endurance of the bone and intensity of ligament, the stability of joints, build up the bone and ligament, resilience of muscle, and ability of the body to withstand being struck.
Principles of Spring Movement
During your Spring training, we have discussed the importance of moving the joints.
From a brain-based perspective, if a joint is jammed or immobile you are less capable of a strong, connected and control movement. This reaction to a jammed joint is known as arthrokinetic reflex. This reflex demonstrates how the mobility (or lack there of) a joint can affect the activation or inhibition of muscular contraction.
From a Qi perspective, movement is key. When there is stagnation in the body, pain and immobility can arise. In addition to movement, tapping can help move Qi. Pai Da is done in various methods. You can use your cupped hand, a bamboo reed or even wires wrapped in a bushel to help stimulate Yang Qi to come to the surface for better circulation, lymph flow and brain to body connection (improving those cortical maps is crucial as you age).
Neuro-Qi Tip o’the day!
Pai Da every day this spring!
Let’s review the new Pai Da acupoints from your SNQ course.
Morning routine could be best for you - but you need to assess to see!
*Video posts every Friday by 11:30am MDT
