Chapter IV
Begin the Orbit: Open the Front
Channel, the Functional
The functional channel (meridian) runs down the front of the body
and is yin, female, or cold in quality; the governor channel at the
back is yang, male, or hot. When joined, these two form the Micro-
cosmic Orbit which links with all the vital organs of the body. By
completing this route, the yin and yang mix in harmony, enabling
you to increase your energy flow, and send energy, hormones, and
vitality throughout your body. In this way energy can be collected,
transformed and absorbed where necessary.
To establish the flow along the meridians some Taoists con-
centrated on easy-to-get energy points which were in accord with
acupuncture points. By focusing on these specific power centers
the Taoists realized that not only was chi released so that a warm
current was felt, but that the energy points were activated, effect-
ing a whole set of mental and physical functions. Focusing on the
navel, for instance, effects the entire gastro-intestinal system, and
the increased chi aids in digestion and balances the appetite.
The Microcosmic Orbit begins and ends at the navel, and the
functional channel extends from the palate to the perineum. To open
the front channel, we work from the navel to the perineum, and
later, after opening the back channel, we open the remainder of the
functional channel.
Awaken the Individual Healing Points
To awaken the energy in the individual points use your inner vision.
Direct your vision inwardly to the point you wish to activate, and
concentrate your mind on that point in your body. Do not create a
visual image of the energy point in your mind. Rather bring your
mind down from your head and put it in your body, e.g. your navel.
The energy, or chi flow that eventually results will be experienced
differently by people depending on physical, emotional, and psy-
chological conditions. Genetic make-up, past history, diet, imme-
Begin the Orbit