Ching (or jing) represents the first of the
Three Treasures , along with
Chi and
Shen . Understood to be the energy related to the Lower
Tan T'ien in the pelvic area, much emphasis is given in T'ai Chi practice to the strengthening of this particular expression of vitality and life essence.
Ching is recognized as the basic fire of the body. It has a direct relationship to sexual energy which in Taoist practice is understood to be both creative and procreative.
Taoism is a very methodical approach to health and personal growth, and the nurturing of the Ching energy in the Lower Tan T'ien is in many ways the laying of the foundation for all subsequent improvement both physically and energetically.
The pelvic area is the energetic center of a larger portion of the body that includes the legs, feet, and feeling of being connected to the ground. So the Chinese viewed this as the "earth domain" of the body which denotes a quality that is enduring and steady, like the earth itself.. So in our T'ai Chi we incorporate a number of practice
principles that are intended to strengthen the Ching energy. First and foremost is simply the emphasis of attention in the Tan T'ien. This mental focus becomes the spark that ignites the fire energy. Next are correct movement principles which result in a freeing of the pelvis from tension, therefore increasing the circulation of energy through this area. Lastly is the cultivation of a deep breath, the image being of drawing the inhalation down into the lower abdomin, and in doing so, bringing oxygen to the fire.
T'ai Chi practice, especially the martial art aspect of the study, goes on to distinguish between various expressions of Ching. Examples of this are Peng Ching (expansive energy), Ting Ching (listening energy), and Fa Ching (emitting energy). Each of these, as well as others, are energetic abilities that express different master level skills. Certain styles might give more emphasis to one form of Ching over another, but each is the result of being successful in cultivating the internal energetic levels of T'ai Chi Ch'uan.
Professor Cheng, Man-ching, the late Grandmaster of T'ai chi, felt that the cultivation of this aspect of practice was so important that he taught that "concentration in the Tan t'ien is worthy of being a 24 hour a day practice". It should be understood that the true intention of the practice of T'ai Chi is to open the heart (Middle Tan T'ien Chi energy) and calm and clarify the mind (Upper Tan T'ien Shen energy), and yet to accomplish these goals requires the development of a strong Ching.
