April 9, 2019

Swimming Dragon

The list of benefits derived from doing a regular practice of Swimming Dragon is very long, especially for women. In fact, this used to be a woman-specific qigong movement known as Three Circles Around the Moon when it was taught by and to women in the Daoist tradition. Today both men and women do the movement and it is better known as the Swimming Dragon.

Here are just some of the many benefits:

Moves energy around the three dantians
Circulates Qi in the belt, thrusting (core), and central channels
Moves energy up to the pituitary and pineal glands
Balances hormones
Increases flexibility, especially of the spine
Stretches thyroid and thymus glands, pancreas, kidneys, and adrenal glands
Opens the lungs and diaphragm, bringing more oxygen and energy to body
Cleanses and warms the uterus and stretches the ovaries in women
Stimulates kidneys resulting in balance of Jing (original essence)
Stimulates yang functions of the body, including digestion
Regulates digestion and increases health of intestines, including the bowels
Increases overall vitality
Helps to unite heart (fire) and kidneys (water) to balance yin and yang in the body
Triggers weight loss

Because this movement is such a deep stretch and opening for the spine, and because all of the internal organs are connected to the spinal column, the entire organ network is positively affected.

If you swim your dragon regularly, you will discover even more benefits through the practice on your own. Do not underestimate its power. It’s helpful to notice and acknowledge the shifts that the Swimming Dragon will bring to your energy, body, and life.

Namaste,
Sandra