Summer Qi Chats | Week 2
What does the tongue have to do with neural changes?
In this week’s Qi Chat, we discuss how training the tongue should be a part of our age training, especially as we seek ways to become stronger over the years.
The "three canopies" of the body
The tongue, the diaphragm, and the pelvic floor—is a holistic framework that connects these three anatomical structures to the overall function and health of the body. This idea is often explored in integrative medicine, Qigong, and other holistic health practices. Here’s a breakdown of each "canopy" and their correlations:
The Tongue:
The tongue is often considered the "upper canopy." It plays a crucial role in speech, swallowing, and the initial stages of digestion.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other holistic practices, the tongue is also seen as a diagnostic tool that reflects the health of the internal organs.
The tongue's position and tension can influence breathing patterns, neck alignment, and even the nervous system's balance.
The Diaphragm:
The diaphragm is the "middle canopy." It is a dome-shaped muscle located beneath the lungs, separating the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity.
It is the primary muscle involved in respiration, playing a vital role in the breathing process.
The diaphragm also assists in maintaining intra-abdominal pressure, supporting core stability, and influencing the function of the digestive organs.
The Pelvic Floor:
The pelvic floor is the "lower canopy." It is a group of muscles located at the base of the pelvis, supporting the pelvic organs (bladder, intestines, and in women, the uterus).
The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in urinary and fecal continence, sexual function, and providing support for the pelvic organs.
These muscles also contribute to core stability and are closely connected to the function of the diaphragm and abdominal muscles.
Proper tongue connection
Shapes the mouth
Improves breathing for better fueling
Strengthens the neck and head stability
Can reduce stress and anxiety
Poor tongue connection
Poor posture
Poor breathing mechanics (snoring, Apnea)
Pain - usually head, neck, shoulders
Headaches & Migraines
Your very own Heavenly Orbit 小周天
The practice of circulating Qi through the Du Mai and Ren Mai is known as the Microcosmic Orbit or Xiao Zhou Tian. This practice is aimed at harmonizing the yin and yang energies within the body, promoting health and spiritual development.
The tongue is considered a crucial bridge in the Microcosmic Orbit. When practicing, the tip of the tongue is often placed on the roof of the mouth, connecting the end points of the Du Mai and Ren Mai. This position completes the circuit, allowing Qi to flow smoothly through the Heavenly Orbit.
Neuro-Qi Tip o’the day!
Get the tongue involved
Roll an ice cube around your mouth. The cool sensation can help with your thermo-receptors of the tongue to help with sensory and improving the brain’s map of the tongue.
Create SLOW clicks and stretch the frenulum (that line of skin that pops up when you stretch the tongue with suction) and massage the frenulum with your fingers or the back head of your toothbrush
Tongue stretching! Open the mouth and extend the tongue. Gently grasp the tongue with one hand and a paper towel or gauze. While maintaining excellent neck posture, LIGHTLY stretch the tongue forward. Work up to 5 continuous minutes. *Keep it gentle.
