An acquaintance in China (YuHan) provided me this information when I inquired about the Dantians which I call the 3 Life Energy Centers of the Human body:

I have compiled authoritative information for you regarding the dantian. It is a region where energy is concentrated in Taoist internal alchemy and traditional Chinese qigong practices (not a single anatomical point). Traditionally, there are three dantians: upper, middle, and lower. In everyday language, the dantian is often specifically referred to as the lower dantian.

Origin and Definition

This originates from the internal alchemy of Daoism (as described in Jin Dynasty author Ge Hong’s “Baopu Zi”). It is referred to as the “field for cultivating and nurturing alchemical substances,” where the Three Treasures of Qi, Jing, and Shen reside. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is integrated into the wellness system, and martial arts and vocal arts often emphasize “qi sinking into the lower abdomen.” Modern anatomy does not recognize this organ; it represents a concept of functional regions.

The positioning of the three energy centers and their core functions.

  1. Upper Abdominal Energy Center (Nirvana Palace): Located in the deep area between the eyebrows; it is associated with the main deity. It helps to calm the mind, strengthen the brain, and enhance focus. However, improper practice can cause dizziness, so it is not recommended for beginners to focus solely on this point.
  2. Zhong Tian Dan (Anterior Mediastinum): The midpoint between the two nipples within the chest cavity (Anterior Mediastinum acupoint area); it governs qi, expands the chest, regulates qi flow, and influences emotions and the heart and lungs. It is suitable for individuals experiencing emotional blockages.
  3. Lower Dantian (Qi Hai/Guan Yuan Area): The lower abdominal region between the navel and the pubic bone, spanning 1.5 inches (Qi Hai) to 3 inches (Guan Yuan); primarily associated with essence and serves as a site for the generation of vital energy. It warms the kidneys and strengthens yang energy, and regulates the reproductive and urinary systems. A key focus area for qigong, tai chi, and abdominal breathing techniques.

Common health maintenance practices.

– Abdominal Breathing: Relax the abdomen. As you inhale, allow it to expand, and as you exhale, gently contract it. Focus your mind on the lower dantian.
Gentle kneading/moxibustion of the Qi Hai and Guan Yuan acupoints.
Avoid using brute force, holding your breath, or exerting excessive mental pressure.

Additional hint.

“Collecting qi in the lower abdomen” involves coordinating breathing with mental focus (the descent of the diaphragm, which creates abdominal tension), rather than simply inhaling air into the lower abdomen. The practice of cultivating qi in the lower abdomen should be done gradually, and individuals with underlying health conditions should consult with a physician before starting.

This is very good information and I thank YuHan for it.

I was hoping that there was more detailed information in China but it appears not.

Why this is important to me in the next blog post series...