《胎息經註》

Annotation on the Classic of Embryonic Respiration by Master Huanzhen:

Authentic embryonic respiration (a profound breathing technique in Daoist cultivation) is achieved by regulating qi in the lower Dantian (the energy center three inches below the navel, also called the Mysterious Feminine). Ordinary people mistakenly consider nasal breathing as the Mysterious Feminine (the source of life), when in fact the mouth and nose are merely gateways for qi exchange. "Mysterious" (Xuan) represents water, while "Feminine" (Pin) symbolizes the maternal principle - just as the vital essences (Jing) of male and female unite in the watery womb, forming an embryo in three months and completing physical form in ten months. Practitioners who regulate qi below the navel while maintaining inward spiritual focus allow Shen (spirit) and qi to fuse, thereby forming the "Mysterious Embryo" - this constitutes the practice of Neidan (internal alchemy) for attaining longevity.

Stable qi circulation originates from established embryonic respiration. Shen is like the child of qi, while qi acts as the mother of Shen - these two are inseparable as shadow follows form. Once embryonic respiration is achieved, Shen naturally stabilizes and primordial qi cannot dissipate.

The Western Ascension Scripture states: The body is Shen's dwelling, while Shen is the body's master. When the master is tranquil, Shen resides peacefully; when agitated, Shen departs. With Shen's departure, primordial qi scatters - how then can life continue? Therefore, human ears, eyes, hands and feet cannot move autonomously but require Shen's governance. Cultivators must constantly gather their Shen; when Shen remains undispersed, the bodily "residence" will not collapse.

Understanding the Shen-qi relationship leads to longevity - one must maintain emptiness (Wu) to nurture them. Daoist scriptures declare: My life resides within myself, not subject to Heaven and Earth. What Heaven and Earth most regret is people either not comprehending the Dao or comprehending but not practicing it. Those who truly understand need only preserve mental clarity, conserve vital essences, remain unentangled by material desires, and naturally cultivate Shen and qi through serene detachment - this constitutes the complete path to longevity.

Shen's activity drives qi movement; when Shen is calm, qi flows smoothly. Intentions (Yi) act as qi's steeds - the two are inseparable companions. To prevent primordial qi from leaving the Mysterious Feminine (Dantian), one must first gather Shen. When Shen doesn't depart the body, qi naturally remains undispersed, and internal plenitude eliminates hunger and thirst.

For those seeking longevity, maintaining the state of mutual nourishment between Shen and qi is essential.

(Note: The character "炁" represents the Daoist writing for primordial qi, distinct from ordinary respiratory qi.)

Commentary on the Embryonic Breathing Scripture (Taixi Jing Zhu) – A Modern Interpretation

The essence of cultivation lies in maintaining the inseparable union of Shen (spirit/consciousness) and Qi (vital energy). As the Daoist classic Xuangang states: "As long as a trace of Yang Qi remains in the body, a person will not become a ghost; as long as a trace of Yin Qi persists, one cannot attain immortality." The original Qi is Yang Qi, while the energy derived from food and drink belongs to Yin Qi. One should frequently reduce consumption and restrain desires, allowing the original Qi to circulate naturally within. When the original Qi grows strong, Yin Qi will naturally dissipate. When Yang Qi flourishes and Yin Qi weakens, the body remains free from illness, the spirit is tranquil, and the body at ease—only then can one aspire to longevity.

During practice, maintain a calm and undisturbed mind, free from distracting thoughts, allowing Shen and Qi to flow naturally—neither forcibly guided nor suppressed. This is how one preserves the natural and constant state of being.

Shen and Qi were originally unified in the womb, but after birth, they are pulled apart by external desires, never returning to their innate state. Those who understand this truth should regularly eliminate emotional distractions and desires, allowing the movement of Shen and Qi to remain spontaneous. With prolonged practice, Shen and Qi will naturally stabilize. Diligently applying these methods is the true path of cultivation.

The key to practicing the true Dao lies here. The words of sages should not be taken lightly: When one masters Taixi (embryonic breathing), the joints will feel unobstructed, and the hair and skin will relax. At this stage, one inhales gently through the nose, allowing the breath to circulate through the pores of the limbs and body without exhaling. When subsequent breaths arrive, they are also inhaled but not exhaled. The process must be soft and slow—though it is called "inhaling without exhaling," the breath does not enter the throat but disperses slightly, allowing the internal Qi to flow downward and spread naturally.

The Essential Formula of the Taixi Ming (Embryonic Breathing Inscription):

Each practice session consists of thirty-six gentle swallows. Exhalations should be subtle; inhalations should be long and continuous. Whether sitting, lying, walking, or standing, maintain a natural state. Avoid noisy and chaotic environments and abstain from pungent or greasy foods. This method is called Taixi (embryonic breathing), but in truth, it is the cultivation of Neidan (internal alchemy). It not only heals illness but also extends life. With long-term practice, one may ascend to the ranks of the immortals.