5 animal frolics (wu Qin xi)
- 4 years ago
The system of Five Animal Exercises were designed by Hua Tuo, a leading physician of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD). Hua Tuo developed this system based on existing ancient Chinese traditional exercises following theories of the functions of the internal organs and meridians as well as the principles of the circulation of Qi and blood in the human body. His inspiration came from the careful observation and study of the characteristic behaviour of tigers, deer, bears, monkeys and birds, concluding that wild creatures regularly performed certain exercises to build up their constitution and improve their life skills. The Five Animal Exercises imitate the movements of five animals and combining physical with mental exercises. The physical movements are designed to show the courage and robustness of the tiger, serenity and poise of the deer, the steadiness and solidity of the bear, the nimbleness and dexterity of the monkey and the swiftness and grace of the bird. The physical movements are at all times integrated with the mental exercises which are supposed to imitate the spiritual activities and expressions of the animals.
The exercises have the aim of strengthening muscles and bones, promoting the circulation of Qi and blood, preventing and curing diseases, maintaining good health and prolonging the life span. The external dynamic physical activities should be integrated with the static activities of the mind. Exercising limbs, waist, trunk and spine can increase the movement range and physical efficiency.
Exercises of the fingers and toes are particularly emphasized for improving the blood circulation to the extremities. Physical and psychological tests of people practicing the Wu Qin Xi give high scores to their overall constitution, the functions of the various organs, mental attitude and power of perception, as well as physical fitness.
The movements are simple and easy to remember as well as very safe and can be exercised by people of different age groups and stages of practice.
The exercises have the aim of strengthening muscles and bones, promoting the circulation of Qi and blood, preventing and curing diseases, maintaining good health and prolonging the life span. The external dynamic physical activities should be integrated with the static activities of the mind. Exercising limbs, waist, trunk and spine can increase the movement range and physical efficiency.
Exercises of the fingers and toes are particularly emphasized for improving the blood circulation to the extremities. Physical and psychological tests of people practicing the Wu Qin Xi give high scores to their overall constitution, the functions of the various organs, mental attitude and power of perception, as well as physical fitness.
The movements are simple and easy to remember as well as very safe and can be exercised by people of different age groups and stages of practice.