In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) the point Da Hai “Sea of Qi” is located about one and half inches below the belly button, where all life begins with the umbilicus. This lower abdominal region is collectively called the Dan Tian, “Field of Elixir.” When meditation, yoga, or martial arts students are told to breathe down into their lower abdomen, this is the area instructors are referring to. Da Hai sits on the surface of the body, Dan Tian is the zone below the surface.

Da Hai and the area immediately around the belly button are considered to be your body’s North Star, and your body’s Milky Way is your Dan Tian.

They are your inner and physical constellations, your source point and core, that the body’s Qi and Blood, Yin and Yang, and inner rivers, seas, mountains, and valleys swirl around.

A strong core, builds strength and keeps you healthy. It anchors you during times of change and stress. Deep breathing and focusing inwardly can help build a strong core. A strong core builds and sustains True Health.

Find your North Star, the center around which everything appears to evolve. Sit quietly, lay down on the ground, or stand tall, and take a gentle, long, deep breath. Allow it to fill your diaphragm and expand your belly and lungs. Feel the connection between the outer stellar North Star and your belly, your physical North Star. Find your center and enjoy a moment of True Health. Feel the connection to life beyond your naval. Feel your inner and outer worlds supporting one another.

Deep breathing and the use of imagery to center your attention into your core will calm you, strengthen you, and inspire you. You’ll feel refreshed. You’ll feel True Health!

Enjoy!
– Ann

Each day in March, I am sharing an aspect of True Health that inspires me, #WRITrueHealthInspiration. Thank you for joining me on this journey!