Opening the Microcosmic Orbit

The Microcosmic Orbit is a Qi (Chi) cultivation technique used in Taoist Yoga and Taoist Qigong (Chi Kung) exercises. It is also known as ‘the circulation of light’ or ‘the small universe’ in some styles of yoga and Qigong.

These meditative and deep breathing exercises are designed stimulate the flow of Chi (life energy) along the body’s many pathways, and this makes up the core of the microcosmic orbit.

These pathways are the same pathways used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Tai Chi, Taoist Yoga, Qigong (Chi Kung), Tai Chi Ch’uan, and Neidan.

The Microcosmic Orbit can be performed while sitting, standing, or while carrying out basic movements like those found in the various forms of Tai Chi. Although the exercise usually begins in a seated position and progresses to standing and then moving forms.

The many benefits of learning to open the microcosmic orbit and circulate Qi energy include resistance to stress and illness, and living a longer healthier life.

I have been practicing Qigong for several months now, and although I don’t practice as much as I should, I do practice at least a few times per week, and even without daily practice I have noticed many health benefits and an overall increased sense of well being. There is little doubt that learning to open the microcosmic orbit through Qigong is a great way to reduce stress and increase your resistance to illness.

To learn Qigong your best option is always to find a great knowledgeable instructor or teacher and attend regular classes with a Qigong Master, but a good way to boost your learning is to watch an instructional Qigong DVD set and follow along with the qigong videos as they play. One of the best and most popular qigong dvd sets is called Spring Forest Qigong with Qigong Master Chunyi Lin.

In the Spring Forest Qigong DVDs, Master Lin describes the microcosmic orbit as “the small universe”, but it’s really the same thing just under a different name.

In the Spring Forest Qigong videos you will discover the 6 harms that keep people from achieving optimal health, and how to avoid them. You’ll also learn a unique way to put yourself and your body into harmony and use it for healing purposes by circulating Qi energy throughout your body and its numerous energy pathways.