Working in the Navel Center
Earth Energies into life-force energy that is useful to the body. This function is similar to our physical digestive process. Taoists regard the navel as the place to transform, store, and receive the external forces. This area needs to be clear of congestion and tension so that energy can easily flow in and out. (Fig. 1.10) The importance of the navel area cannot be overemphasized. The Navel Center is where you can unify your body, mind, and spirit. This is the body’s forceful Chi Energy Center. (Fig. 1.11) If there is any problem with the energy in the Center, such as tangles, knots, blockages, or stagnation, then there may not be sufficient energy to feed the organs and their energy systems fully. All Tao practices, including the Microcosmic Orbit, Tai Chi Chi Kung, Iron Shirt Chi Kung, and the higher practices, always end by bringing the energy back to the navel area. Energy is built up through the practices and exercises and stored in its storeroom--the Original Center. By keeping the center of the body filled with Chi and free of blockages, the energy can flow easily and powerfully, assuring good health, rejuvenation, and longevity.
Fig. 1.9 Energy enters the human fetus at the navel and circulates in the Microcosmic Orbit, hamonizing Yin and Yang energies. - 44 -