DEADLI. wrote:Ordinarily for the majority of qigong movements and exercises, we either build qi, increase qi circulation, or remove blockages. But this exercise imposes a particular qi flow direction on the system.
There are so many views out there that it is almost impossible to objectively give credence to the real thing if even that was the correct view. The bottom line is that you follow the most rational based on your own input from whatever source or personality that explains it to your liking.
Usually in neigong (neiyanggong, yangshengong, shengong, etc) there are levels to attain some kind of inner nourishing health that vitalizes the spirit. Awareness of, or lack thereof is the beginning point.
basic steps
a. build 'qi'
b. nourish 'qi'
c. increase 'qi'
d. disperse 'qi'
These are akin to stages of training.
I see nothing in the link to indicate that the exercise routine imposes a particular qi flow direction so you might explain what you mean.
One cannot force blood to flow contrary to where it is supposed to go! If this happens, there is a disease process going on and the person dies, or damaged endothelium causes havoc leading to chronic illnesses and even death. As an example, someone with blocked arteries (degree and severity index) will die if no surgical intervention takes places.
DEADLI. wrote:I was wondering, since according to TCM 'qi is the commander of the blood', that if setting up a qi flow that is not neccessarily natural, might have negative implications.
Not sure what you mean by this! If in doubt, then it is better not to practice a certain method. There is nothing wrong with the system. The main problem is the baggage that it brings that is contrary, so in that sense if you find its theories less than admirable then again, perhaps a different system needs to be "followed"