MEDICAL

CHING

ELEMENTS

According to the interpretation of the I Ching-Eight Trigrams, from a Chi Kung medical point of view,
each element (trigram) is associated with various aspects of the phenomenal world and the animals,
all of which are perceived to resonate together due to their proportions of Yin and Yang energy. The
trigrams represent the Eight Extraordinary Vessels (energetic reservoirs) storing, circulating,
distributing and linking all of the Yin and Yang energy utilizing the fascia as the vehicle. This nourishes
and gives vigor to the organ-networks.
They are thus able to regulate the flow of energy maintaining a state of balance and health. Fascia is
the very thin connective tissue which has electromagnetic properties that surrounds every muscle,
every muscle fiber, every organ, and every bone every component contained in our body. The
eight(8) Extraordinary Vessels work as "fields within fields", like reservoirs that regulate the distribution
and quality of jing and Chi energy throughout the body, capable of changing the signals that control
the use of jingand Chi energy. As the foundation of the body's energy flow bridge the Prenatal Energy
with our Postnatal Energy.
All extraordinary vessels are in some way connected to the Kidney Organ Network, which in Chinese
Traditional Medicine is considered the root of the physical body and the immune system
(protective Chi). The vessels draw their energy from the Kidneys. The total system functions like a
great tree: the kidneys are the roots, the extraordinary vessels form the trunk, the main meridian
systems are the limbs and branches, and the essence is its sap. The vessels ultimate function is to
store, circulate, distribute and link all of the tree's life energy.
It is destiny that the Meng Main chakra (Gate of Destiny) is located between the kidneys as a pumping
station and as the captain of the energy ship. It filters energy increasing the quality and rate of the
vibration of lower jing into subtle energy Chi and into divine energy shen. Balance of subtle energy
through the chakras is health = life.
The extraordinary vessel's energetic structures are intertwined with the human body's material
structure at its deepest level. They reside within the energetic strata of the human body, and are the
formative energies of the body. Their function is vast and dictates the growth and cycle of the physical
form, much like the blueprint for a building. The form and structure of the body begins and matures
together within the biorhythmic patterns of our energetic life.
The Eight Extraordinary Vessels provide the link between the body's Six Extraordinary (Curious)
Organs (Brain, Bone, Marrow, Blood Vessels, Gall Bladder and Uterus) and the internal energy flow
of the primary Yang organs (Gall Bladder, Small Intestine, Stomach, Large Intestine, Urinary Bladder
and Triple Burner), in addition to the Kidney Organ Network.
The Eight Extraordinary Vessels integrate the Four Seas: Sea of Marrow, the Sea of Blood, the Sea
ofChi, and the Sea of Water, with the body's internal energy flow. When the Extraordinary Vessels
become full, the energy overflows into the center channel or Taiji Pole. This stimulation of the Taiji
Pole expands consciousness and increases perception and intuition, the Shen.
When the extraordinary vessels are out of balance, they manifest as symptoms such as , structural
imbalances, tension, right/left imbalance, length differences or postural abnormalities, imbalances of
the neck, lower back and knees. Harmonizing these vessels reestablishes symmetry and health.
These vessels are the most important distribution channels connecting to the meridians and
functioning as the optimal energetic blue print for the human body. They are also referred to as
the etheric-double in Advance Medical Chi Kung (Shen Kung).

This is why the Eight Extraordinary Vessels have been of special importance to Medical Chi Kung
practitioners for thousands of years. At this advanced stage of transformation, Chi Kung doctors
receive more quality Chi, therefore, increasing blood quality, by focusing on the development of the
Eight Extraordinary Vessels.
With this understanding, ancient masters developed a sequence of motion -techniques know as the
"18 Postures" (Shi-Pa-Sho), from which all the martial arts derive, such as the Kojosho system.
Training the human body following the flow of the 18 Postures, aligning the energy of the 8
Extraordinary Vessels, is an important step of implementing self-healing, thus acting as preventive
medicine.
Each of the 8 elements is associated with an animal, and each group of elements and animals are
contained within a unit. The Bear contains the animals and the Dao (Tao) contains the elements.
Therefore, the I Ching 9 element forms is derived.
Each of these extraordinary vessels are revealed in the I Ching - The Book of Changes, symbolically
as elemental trigrams and animals.

THE EIGHT TRIGRAMS

1.Qian

(Ch'ien),
the
Creative
Heaven/Deer/Humanity/Thrusting
Vessel/Chong
Mai
This trigram consists of three Yang or solid lines and symbolizes the creative or heaven.
This is the most Yang in nature among all eight trigrams. It intertwines with the movement
of theDeer teaching us Humanity. The Chong
Mai originates in the Lower Dantian arising from the space
between the Kidneys traveling upward to the head and face, and
down to the feet.

Brings Chi and Blood to the chin area

Energizes the other Extraordinary Vessels
Energizes the Uterus and the Prostate
Energizes the Lower Abdomen, Chest, Breast, Throat
and Face
Gives tension and tightness to the membranes
Strengthens the interaction among Liver, Spleen, and
Kidney channels
Regulates changes in an individual's life cycle; every 8
years in men, 7 years in women
Master and Couple Point: Sp-4
Direction: Northwest

One of the major purposes of the Thrusting vessel is to connect,

to communicate, and to mutually support the Conception vessel.
Because of this mutual Chi support, both can effectively regulate theChi in the kidney channel. The
kidneys are the residence of Original Chi and are considered one of the most vital Yin organs.

The Thrusting vessel is considered one of the most important and decisive vessels in su ccessful Chi
Kung training, especially in Marrow Washing. There are many reason for this. The first reason is that
this vessel intersects two cavities on the Conception vessel: Huiyin (LI-l) and Yinjiao (LI7). Huiyin means "meeting with Yin" and is the cavity where the Yang and Yin Chi are transferred.
Yinjiao means "Yin Junction" and is the cavity where the Original Chi (Water Chi, or Yin Chi) interfaces
with Fire Chi created from food and air. The Thrusting Vessel also connects with eleven cavities on
the kidney channel. The kidney is considered the residence of Original Essence (Yuan Jing), which is
converted into Original Chi(Yuan Chi).
The second reason for the importance of the Thrusting Vessel in Chi Kung trainin g is that this vessel
is connected directly to the spinal cord and reaches up to the brain. The major goal of Marrow Washing
Chi Kung is to lead the Chi into the marrow and then further on to the head, nourishing the brain and
spirit (Shen).
And finally, the third reason is found in actual Chi Kung practice. There are three common training
paths: Fire, Wind, and Water. In Fire path Chi Kung, the emphasis is on the Fire or Yang Chi circulating
in the Governing vessel and therefore strengthening the muscles a nd organs. The Fire path is the
main Chitraining in Muscle/Tendon Changing (Yi Jin Jing) Chi Kung. However, the Fire path can also
cause the body to become too Yang, and therefore speed up the process of degeneration. In order to
adjust the Fire to a proper level, Marrow Washing Chi Kung is also trained. This uses the Water path,
in which Chiseparates from the route of the Fire path at the Huiyin cavity (LI-l), enters the spinal cord,
and finally reaches up to the head. The Water path teaches how to use Original Chi to cool down the
body, and then to use this Chi to nourish the brain and train the spirit. Learning to adjust the Fire and
Water Chicirculation in the body is essential.
In terms of medical I Ching divination, the Creative, is associated with dis eases of the head, brain,
spinal cord, and the central nervous system. It also suggests or corresponds to severe diseases or
symptoms and malignancies. As far as psychological states are concerned, this trigram indicates
extreme mental and emotional states. Its phase correspondence is metal.
2.

Kun

(K'un),
the
Receptive
Earth/Tiger/Courage/Yin
Heel
Vessel/Yin
Qiao
Mai
This trigram consists of three broken lines rendering this the most Yin trigram of the eight.
This is the most Yin in nature among all eight trigrams symbolizing the receptive or earth,
and it intertwines with the movement of the Tiger teaching us Courage. The Yin Qiao Mai is
an offshoot of the Kidney channels. In ancient China, the Heel Vessel were thought to psychologically
determine how you see yourself in the world.

Controls motion of the lower limbs

Controls the ascent of fluids and the descent of Chi
Controls the Yin of the left and right side of the body
Digestive issues, abdominal issues
Effects the lateral aspect of the lower limbs, numbness,
weakness, spasms
Energizes the Eyes, moistening them
Excess Yang, insomnia
Excessive sleepiness
Eye issues
First line of defense
Hot Flashes
Influence the entire lower abdominal area
in women

Influence the reproductive system in

males/ females
Issues of the eyes or face, eye pain, redness or swelling, headache
Manages energy in the Abdomen
Movement of the body, walking, cold or weakness in the lower limbs
Nourishes Blood and Yin
Regulates sleep
Respiratory issues
Tonifies the Leg Muscles
Tonifies the Tissue and Membranes
Urogenital problems, retention of urine
Master and Couple Point: Kd-6
Direction: Southwest

The Yin Heel vessel is connected with two cavities of the kidney channel. Therefore, one of the major
sources of Chi for this vessel is the conversion of the kidney essence into Chi. It is believed in Chi
Kung society that the other major Chi source is the essence of the external kidneys (testicles).
Some of the training processes is to stimulate the testicles in order to increase the hormone production
and increase the conversion of the essence into Chi. At the same time, you would learn how to lead
theChi in this vessel up to the head to nourish the brain and spirit ( Shen). With this nourishment, you
would be able to reach enlightenment. From a health and longevity point of view, the raised spirit will
be able to efficiently direct the Chi of the entire body and maintain your health.
Kun, the Receptive, corresponds to the earth phase and, therefore, to diseases of the digestive
system, the spleen/pancreas and stomach, the female reproductive system, the feet and legs, and
subcutaneous tissue. It also occasionally suggests water diseases and typically is associated with
chronic, slow moving illnesses. Psychologically, this hexagram suggests depression, despair, and
melancholy.
3.

Li,

the
Clinging
Fire/Snake/Knowlage/Conception
Vessel/Ren
Mai
This trigram has one Yin line between two Yang lines and it signifies the clinging or fire. It
intertwines with the movement of the Snake giving us Knowledge. The Ren Mai, Sea
of Yinchannels, originates from the center of the Lower Dantian, arising from the space
between the Kidneys. Functionally, the Conception Vessel is divided into three parts: 1) The upper
third of the Conception Vessel on the sternum controls respiratory funct ions; 2) The middle third of the
Conception Vessel on the epigastrium controls digestion functions;
3) The lower third of the Conception Vessel on the abdomen
controls the urogenital functions.

Activate the Triple Burner

Controls Fat Tissue and Membranes
Effects male genitalia, hernia,
sexual desire, impotence
Energizes the reproductive System
Gastrointestinal issues, digestion
Harmonizes the Lungs and Kidneys
Regulates female cycles, menstruation,
reproduction
Regulates Metabolism of fluids and flow of Chi
Regulates the energy of the reproductive system

Regulates the Uterus and the Blood

Sea of Yin: influences the Yin, essence and fluids
Tonifies and nourishes Yin energy
Tonifies the Blood and Yin
Master and Couple Point: Lu-7
Direction: South

Ren in Chinese means "direction, responsibility." Ren Mai, the "Conception Vessel," has a major role
inChi circulation, monitoring and directing all of the Yin channels (plus the stomach channel). The
Conception Vessel is connected to the Thrusting and Yin Linking vessels, and is able to increase
the Yinenergy of the body. This vessel nourishes the uterus (one of the five ancestral organs) and the
whole genital system. It is said in the Nei Jing that the Conception and Thrusting vessels contain both
blood and essence (Jing), and both flow up to the face and around the mouth. They contain more
blood than essence in men, and thus promote the growth of the beard and body hair. Because women
lose blood with their menstruation, they contain proportionately less blood , therefore no beard or body
hair.
It was described in the Su Wen that both the Conception and Thrusting vessels control the life cycles
every 7 years for women and every 8 years for men. It is the changes taking place in these vessels at
those intervals that promote the major alterations in our lives.
In addition, the Conception vessel also controls the distribution and "dispersion" of Guardian Chi all
over the abdomen and thorax via numerous small Chi branches (Luo). This vessel also plays an
important role in the distribution of body fluids in the abdomen.
Li, the Clinging, corresponds to circulatory diseases and cardiovascular conditions as well as diseases
of the small intestine, tongue, and eyes. It suggests inflammation, fever, and redness of the skin
caused by capillary congestion, and also problems with the metabolism. In general, this trigram relates
to the fire phase and all that that phase connotes in the realm of Chinese medicine. Occasionally,
extreme forms of delirium and hysteria can be indicated by this trigram.
4.

Kan

(K'an),
the
Abysmal,
Water
Leopard/Honor/Yang
Heel
Vessel/Yang
Qiao
Mai
This trigram is just the opposite of Li the Fire. It is composed of a Yang or solid line between
two Yin or broken lines. It symbolizes the abysmal or water, and it intertwines with the
movement of the Leopard teaching us Honor. The Yang Qiao Mai is an offshoot of the
Urinary Bladder channels. In ancient China, the Heel Vessel were
thought to psychologically determine how you see the world.

Absorbs excess of Yang from the Head

Controls the Yang of the left and
right sides of the body
First line of defense
Regulates Chi to the Eyes
Regulates Chi to the Spine and
Back Nervous System
Nourishes Blood and Yang
Master and Couple Point: UB-62
Direction: North

It is located in the trunk and legs. For millions of years, man has been walking on his legs, which
perform much more strenuous work than the arms. As evolution proceeded, the legs gradually
developed these vessels to supply Chi support and regulate the channels.
From the way that the Yang Heel vessel intersects with other Chi channels it regulates
the Yangchannels, such as the urinary bladder, the gall bladder, the small intestine, and the large
intestine. The Yang Heel vessel is also connected with the Governing vessel. The Chi filling this vessel
is supplied mainly through exercising the legs, which converts the food essence or fat s tored in the
legs. This Chi is then led upward to nourish the Yang channels. It is believed in Chi Kung that, since
this vessel is also connected with your brain, certain leg exercises draw Chi downward from the head
to the leg muscles and relieve the pressure in the head.
Most of the training that relates to this vessel is considered Yang, and specializes in training
the Yangchannels.
Kan, the Abysmal corresponds to the water phase and diseases of the kidneys, bladder, urogenital
system, bones, blood, and body fluids, such as edema. It also suggests the lower abdomen, the
marrow, the nose, ears, gums, hair, and eyesight, toxins such as bacteria and viruses and poisons
which have accumulated within the body and are stagnant within the system, and cold condit ions.
Psychologically, it indicates anxiety, worry, fright, fear, phobias, terror, and tension.
5.

Xun

(Sun),
the
Gentle
Wind/Dragon/Wisdom/Belt
Vessel/Dai
Mai
This trigram has one Yin line at the bottom and two Yang lines on top. It is a symbol of the
gentle or wind, and it intertwines with the movement of the Dragon giving us Wisdom.
The Dai Mai energetic function is to bind, join, and
control all of the channels of the body, exerting an influence upon
the circulation of the body's Governing and Conception Vessels.

Is the only horizontal vessel

Harmonizes the Liver and Gall Bladder
Influence circulating energy to and from the legs
Influence energetic actions of the genitals,
waist, and hips
Regulates circulation of Chi in the legs
Responsible for the Chi's horizontal balance
Resolves Dampness in the Lower Burner
Tonifies the Stomach and Spleen channels
Master and Couple Point: GB-41
Direction: Southeast

From the point of view of Chi Kung, the Girdle vessel is also responsible for the strength of the waist
area. When Chi is full and circulating smoothly, back pain will be avoided. In addition, because the
kidneys are located nearby, this vessel is also responsible for Chi circulation around the kidneys,
maintaining the kidneys' health. Most important of all for the Girdle vessel is the fact that the Lower
Dantian is located in its area. In order to lead Original Chi from the kidneys to the Lower Dantian, the
waist area must be healthy and relaxed. This means that the Chi flow in the waist area must be smooth.
Xun, the Gentle, corresponds to the wood phase within five phase theory and wind diseases of a
gentle and penetrating nature. It also suggests liver Yin vacuity, liver wind, the thighs, the
parasympathetic nervous system, respiratory and intestinal diseases, gentle or mild illnesses,

prolonged recovery, or latent fevers. Psychologically, it is associated with despondency, grief, sorrow,
and sadness.
6.

Zhen
(Chen),
the
Arousing
Thunder/Lightning/Hawk/Courtesy/Yang Linking Vessel/Yang Wei Mai
This trigram has only one Yang line at the bottom and two Yin or broken lines on top. It
represents the arousing or thunder fire, and it intertwines with the movement of
the Hawkteaching us Courtesy. The Yang Wei Mai serve to maintain and communicate
with all of theYang channels (urinary bladder, gall bladder, triple
burner, small intestine, and stomach) on the exterior portion of the
lateral aspects of the body.

Affects body temperature

Harmonizes Gall Bladder
Influences the sides of the body
Regulates energy in the Ears
Master and Couple Point: TB-5
Direction: East

Zhen, the Arousing, corresponds to sudden diseases, movable diseases, pain in the nerves, illnesses
of the sensory system, motor system, the sympathetic nervous system, the lower extremities, the
tendons, gallbladder, and liver yang. It is associated with birth, growth, and development and tends to
describe diseases which are painful and which progress quickly, including the possibility of quic k
recovery. Psychologically, sudden fits of anger and rage may be hinted at by this trigram. Its phase
correspondence is wood.
7.

Gen

(Ken),
Keeping
Still
Mountain/Monkey/Trust/Yin
Linking
Vessel/Yin
Wei
Mai
The shape of this trigram depicts the outline of a mountain surmounted by the sky with
a Yangline at the top supported by two Yin lines underneath. It is the symbol of keeping still
or mountain, and it intertwines with the movement of the Monkey teaching us Trust. The Yin
Wei Mai are responsible for moving the Yin energy, regulating the
Blood, and regulating the internal parts of the body and
all Yin channels.

Balances Mental and Emotional energy

Balances Head energy
Nourishes Blood and Yin
Tonifies the Heart
Master and Couple Point: Pc-6
Direction: Northeast

Gen, Keeping Still, corresponds to diseases of the head and skull,

upper back, neck, and shoulders in particular and the joints in
general. It also suggests the male genitalia, diseases which are
stuck and do not move, stubborn and immovable obstructions, stoppages in circulation, tumors and
constant swellings, loss of resistance, and injuries. In terms of mental/emotional states, it is associated
with stubborn, obstinate, and imperturbable states of mind. Its phase correspondence is earth.
8.

Dui

(Tui),
the
Lake/Crane/Patience/Governing

Vessel/Du

Joyous
Mai

This trigram has two Yang or solid lines at the bottom and one Yin or broken line at the top.
Thus it symbolizes joy, a lake, or a marsh, and it intertwines with the movement of
the Craneteaching us Discipline and Patience. During the development of the embryo,
the Du Mai, the sea of Yang, is responsible for the formation of the medulla oblongata and cerebrum.
It is also responsible for nourishing the brain and the spinal cord
and consolidating the energy in the kidney.

Expels Exterior Wind

Extinguishes Interior Wind
Influence on will-power and spirit
Tonifies Kidney-Yang
Strengthens the Spine
Nourishes the Brain and marrow
Strengthens the Mind
Master and Couple Point: SI-3
Direction: West

The Governing Vessel is the confluence of all the Yang channels, over which it is said to "govern."
Because it controls all the Yang channels, it is called the "Sea of YangMeridians." This is apparent
from its pathway because it flows up the middle of the back, a Yang area, and in the center of
all Yang channels (except the stomach channel which flows in the front). The Governing Vessel
governs all the Yang channels, which means that it can be used to increase the Yangenergy of the
body.
Since the Governing Vessel is the "Sea of Yang Meridians" and it controls or governs the back, the
area richest in Guardian Chi (Wei Chi), it is also responsible for the circulation of the body's Guardian
Chi to guard against external evil intruders.
According to Chinese medical science, Guardian Chi is Yang Chi and therefore represents the "Fire"
of the body. Its quick and ubiquitous circulation keeps the fire going in the body and controls the loss
of body heat. Guardian Chi is also inextricably linked with the fluids that flow outside the channels, in
the skin and flesh. Consequently, through the breathing (under control of the lungs), Guardian Chi is
responsible for the opening and the closing of the pores, and also controls sweating.
The Governing vessel is also responsible for nourishing the five ancestral or gans, which include the
brain and spinal cord. This is one of the ways in which the kidneys "control" the brain, as is said in
Chinese medicine.
To the ancient Chinese, a marsh exemplified a place of joyous life with water, plants, fish, birds, and
other animals. Dui, the Joyous, corresponds in the realm of health and medicine to diseases of the
mouth, oral cavity, the digestive system, and reproductive system. It also suggests chronic diseases,
a slow onset, and long-term pathological condition resulting from a disease, injury, or other trauma, as
well as diet, nutrition, and sexual factors playing a factor in the patient's case. This trigram relates to
the metal phase in five phase theory. In terms of psychology, it indicates overexcitement and frenzied
states of mind.
9.

Wuji
The

Way

of

The
Void,
Nature/Bear/Loyalty/The

Dao

Potential
(Tao)

The I Ching, Eight Trigrams discussed above, are contained

within the Great Void. The ancient Chinese believed that
the Chi of Yin and Yang fulfills the Great Void(Wuji),
enveloping all things and leaving nothing outside its
boundaries. In ancient Chinese philosophy is reefer to as
theDao (Tao)the Great Void. It represents The Way of
Nature. In ancient China Lao Tsu taught that the wisest
approach was a way of 'non struggle action', which does not
mean inaction, but rather harmonizing one's personal will
and actions with the natural harmony and justice of Nature.
Human life must ultimately follow the flow of the structural change in the unity
of the Dao, for the implicit nature of theDao forms the foundation of our
journey from birth to death. From the Great Voidall things are created.
The Great Void is associated with the Taiji Pole. Being the body's centercore that connects through us 'Heaven(Fire) and Earth(Water).' From
this center-core all other human life manifestation is borne through energy
channels and organs. This energy, with its constant flow, manifests life. Our
human body is only a reflection of this universal energy (Chi) contained in our
Solar System, and manifested upon Earth beings.

Taiji

The Eighteen Lo-Han Postures, Shi-Pa-Sho, are the result of this understanding. Through observation
and study, Chinese masters correlated each element to an animal, and the Great Void to the Bear.
They bestowed the Bear with this honor because of it's wisdom and loyalty to The Way of Nature.

KOJOSHO
A Parallel I-Ching & Extraordinary Vessel, Path of Development
The Kojosho method of Chi Kung and Martial Arts is one of many systems derived from the Southern
Shaolin that traces its lineage back to Hua-T'o Chinese philosopher and physician. Its practice follows
the path of the Posnatal Bagua, returning to the Prenatal Bagua. After birth, human life becomes a
discovery process in the understanding of, "where do we come from" and, "where are we going."
Finding the pieces of the puzzle to resolve the mystery of life and death is the return to the Prenatal
Bagua, or to Heaven.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chi Kung are based in the understanding that human life is the
result of two opposing but complementary energies conceived from Heaven( Yang) and Earth(Yin).
The interaction of these polarities manifests time and space as we know it, while also providing a path
through our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual bodies back to the original life source.
The Prenatal Bagua and the Elements in Kojosho follow the same path: Heaven, Earth, Fire, Water,
Wind, Lightning, Mountain, Lake and Tao (Dao) which is the container where all other elements exist.

Yin Qiao Mai (Yin)Earth/Tiger

Courage, Yin Heel Vessel (Ki6,Lu7)

Du Mai (Yang)Lake/Crane
Patience, Governing Vessel (Si3,UB62)

Yang Qiao Mai (Yang)Water/Leopard

Honor, Yang Heel Vessel (UB62,Si3)
Ren Mai (Yin)Fire/Snake
Knowledge, Conception Vessel (Lu7,Ki6)

Yang Wei Mai (Yang)Lightning/Hawk

Courtesy, Yang Linking Vessel (TB5,GB41)

Yin Wei Mai (Yin)Mountain/Monkey

Trust, Yin Linking Vessel (PC6,Sp4)
Dai Mai (Yang)Wind/Dragon
Wisdom, Belt Vessel (GB41,TB5)

Chong Mai (Yin)Heaven/Deer

Humanity, Thrusting Vessel (Sp4,PC6)

WujiDao/Bear
Loyalty to the Way of Nature (GV20,GV1)