03/08/2025
The Kidney Meridian System
In the practice of wellness Exercise, the Kidneys are always targeted for tonification because they are often defienct in energy. Here are some notes to aid your study of the Kidneys in Qigong practice.
Jing (Essence) stored in the Kidneys is the origin of both Yin and Yang. Jing transforms into Kidney Yin and Kidney Yang, which then nourish all other organs. Every organ has its own Yin and Yang, but the Kidneys are the source of both for the entire body. That’s why Kidney Yin and Kidney Yang are also called “Primary Yin” and “Primary Yang”. This makes the Kidneys the energetic root of life. “Root of Yin and Yang” because they generate and regulate the primary energies that sustain life.
Yin is the fuel. Yang is the flame.
If one declines, the other suffers. Kidneys regulate fluid balance, separating pure from impure fluids and directing them appropriately.
Yin: Cooling, nourishing, moistening, restful
Yang: Warming, activating, energizing, dynamic
Lower Dantian focus / Strengthens and stores Jing
Breath regulation / Prevents depletion, calms nervous system
Gentle movement / Stimulates Kidney meridians
Visualization & intent / Directs energy to Jing reservoir
Emotional harmony / Preserves Shen, which protects Jing
When Qi flows freely and Shen is clear, Jing is protected.
Emotional balance and mental clarity reduce internal friction that would otherwise drain essence.
Done properly, squatting down slightly, while bending over forward, and arching the Spine backward are classic Yinyang exercises, targeting the kidneys. It is very important to learn to do these exercise correctly, so not as much injury occurs as benefit is received.
