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The forms of Yi Jin Jing are an ancient practice and part of the foundation of Shaolin training. The 12 postures of Yi Jin Jing can be learned by all levels and are one of the fundamental forms in Qi Gong alongside Ba Duan Jin and Wu Qin Xi.

Whilst Ba Duan Jin focuses more on the maintenance of a strong, mobile and healthy body; the intention of practicing Yi Jin Jing is to strengthen our connective tissue and tendons to open these energetic pathways for our Qi to travel through. 

The method of Yi Jin Jing incorporates a combination of external and internal exercises.

These exercises focus on bringing awareness to different parts of our body, improving the interconnection of our muscles, tendons and connective tissue. 

‘JING’ – METHOD ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF TENDONS

The word ‘Jing’ refers to a text, script or article that records and holds the knowledge of a specific skill. Yi Jin Jing is a particular article, compiled through the ages, that records a method on ‘the transformation of tendons. The systematic approach behind Yi Jin Jing gives it a unique position amongst Chinese literature on well-being as it is about the application of these theories and methods and not just about the experience of the movements. 

Nowadays many different versions of the Yi Jin Jing exercises exist and many different interpretations within different systems can be found. But regardless of the system, the fundamental elements of the Yi Jin Jing and the methods on how to develop the body can be found within most Chinese martial arts.

HOW DOES IT WORK? 

In the texts of Yi Jin Jing, it advocates, that our body must be build and strengthened in the sequence of Qi, connective tissue and then tendons.

It says: “There is a network of tendons and ligaments throughout the body. Tendons are outside the skeleton, inside the muscles, even the four limbs and the hundred bones are all parts of the system of tendons and ligaments. They hold together the body, they are the channels through which the blood and the pulse flow, and they are the external complement to the spirit.”

The transformation of tendons requires us to start with internal training, focussing on the ‘fostering of Qi’. It is a process, working from the inside out, starting with the internal practices cultivating and activating our Qi, to engage and strengthen our connective tissue in the right way. This in turn will start to develop and transform our tendons, which will lead to the opening of the channels for the Qi to reach to every part of our body.

The intent of the Yi Jin Jing Twelve Posture Exercise, is to build a healthy and strong body. Its defining characteristics are its combination of strength, force and flexibility, movement and stillness, with the mind and power working as one. 

For the best health benefits, classical Qi Gong focuses on regulated breathing in coordination with every move, practiced in a measured, harmonious, slow and purposeful manner.

The transformation through regular practice of this Qi Gong can show not only in all areas of your body but in everything that you do.