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The Movement and Mind Methods

In the tradition of Tai Chi the scholar learns different kinds of movements first. From the feelings one might have while doing so one will get a feeling of the energy flow. Thus, one will develop a feeling how to move energy. In the Qi Gong tradition the scholar learns to send his mind, i.e. the intend which in Chinese is called the I, through the body. Thus, manipulating the flow of energy directly.

The Outer and Inner Methods

The distinction between outer and inner refers to the energy paths in th body called meridians. Exercises to maintain and improve one's health refer to the outer meridians. To alter metabolic functions or cure diseases one have to manipulate the inner meridians. Tai Chi exercises harmonize the energy flow onto the outer meridians and therefore belong to the outer methods. Referring to the inner methods in Qi Gong only one speaks of Nei Gong.

The Fire and the Water Methods

The term fire method is used for exercises which teach to compress energy and send it through the body to open energy paths. Whereas, the water method refers to exercises where the flow of energy is increased bit by bit but on a broader scale. In any school there are exercises of both type. Nevertheless, different schools rely more on one type of the above. The fire method is linked more closely to the Shaolin temples and the sacred mountain of Song Shan. The water method is linked more closely the the temples of the Wudang Shan.