What is Neidan? From the Zhao Bichen lineage, an interview

Zhao Ming Wang: Neidan are a set of exercises that vary from one Daoist tradition to the next, that are designed to work through the cultivation of inner (內- Nei), developmental medicine (丹 -Dan).  This internal medicine cultivation makes use of the Three Treasures (三寶 – San Bao), which are Jing (精), Qi (氣), and Shen (神).  From a historical point of view, these practices are believed to date back to the time of the Yellow Emperor (2697-2597BCE), and are represented in the various Daoyin (導引) and Qigong (氣功) exercises.  In the Qianfeng tradition, for example, neidan can be practiced in such away so that the mind (shen) is calmed through seated meditation, whilst regulating the breath (qi), and settling the body (jing).  Qi circulation is enhanced by removing physical and psychological blockages in the mind and body, so that qi can flow to the centre of every inner organ without hindrance.  The mind, of course, is linked to the nervous system (which are both included in shen), so that by calming the mind, qi can be directed by the will, with ease throughout the system.  By building concentration and relaxation, the mind and physical structures are strengthened by a stronger (and greatly refined) circulation of qi within (and around) the living organism.  Neidan builds awareness and sensitivity so that an ever deepening level of insight is developed within the practitioner.  This culminates in universal awareness and a unification of jing, qi, and shen.  Neidan is essentially the cultivation of qi –this is the doorway to all advanced development.  Zhao Bichen was taught by Master Liao Kong that at the highest level of neidan attainment, the practitioner realises a ‘return to nothingness’, so that an all-embracing presence is achieved within and throughout empty space.  The mind becomes still and all movement ceases – this is called ‘hibernating dragon’.  All previous manifestations and transformations (such as riding dragons and storks, walking on the sun, or playing with the moon) return to this emptiness.  Qi is no longer wasted and shen (mind) and body/environment (jing) are in perpetual harmony.  There is a complete serenity of being which must be maintained until the falling away of the body (at death).  This is the practice of longevity and the attainment of immortality.