Neigong Training at the Temple of Heaven

It was quite something to walk around this beautiful place.

Not just from an architectural stand point but from the landscape as well. Some of the trees here are 800 years old.

It is said that this temple was built as the meeting point between heaven and earth.

One thing for sure, there's a feeling of calmness and serenity here.

I like the symbolism behind each building and what it represents as well as why and how they were built. Every building serves a purpose adding to the overall beauty of the park.

Everything is calculated.

The imperial north-south axis that runs from the Temple of Heaven to the Forbidden City to the main Olympic site is quite impressive.

The way the number 9 or multiples of it were used to build the Altar of Heaven. The steps, the balustrades, the railings and the altar floor all comprise the multiple of 9, the numerical epitome of Yang, the positive force.

Standing on the center tablet of the Altar of Heaven was once considered the most sacred spot in the Chinese Empire. A person standing in the center of the altar who speaks softly will hear the echo of his own voice.








"Standing on the Center Tablet"












Others on the platform will not hear it because the sound echoes off the surrounding balustrade and returns directly to the center of the circle.

Another interesting point, if one stands on the first flagstone at the bottom of the staircase which leads up to the southern entrance door of the Hall of the Imperial Heavenly Vault and claps or shouts loudly, a single echo is produced; standing on the second flagstone, a double echo is produced; and on the third flagstone, a triple echo can be heard.

Also, in the same courtyard, if two people stand at the east and west extremes of the circular "Echo Wall" and speak softly, the sound will be propelled around to the person on the opposite side.

Not bad considering this was built starting in the 1400s.

Another area where the Chinese were and are ahead of their time is with internal energy development.



While in the park we managed to take some time, secluded in the forest, to practice our Neigong (internal work) training.


As you can see from this picture there are many spots where one can take time to harness and flow the chi energy in the body and to do it in this place was a privilege and an honor.

Want to know more about Neigong?

Check this out.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M