Meridian Stretching is designed to open the meridians of the body and to balance the energy of their associated organs. Meridian Stretching combines proper breathing with stretching movements. When breath is combined with body movement, metabolism can be influenced more effectively.

When the circulation of energy and blood is blocked and stagnant, the Ki sensation becomes dull. Before the beginning of main training, Meridian Stretching revives Ki sensation, which is the core foundation of Dahn Yoga. It helps smooth out energy circulation by eliminating stagnant energy in the body, relaxing the body, and supplying rejuvenated energy. Although used primarily before and after main training, practicing Meridian Stretching on its own greatly helps to maintain health and to prevent illness.

Breathing and meditation cannot be fully experienced when tension is held in the upper body. When the shoulders and chest are blocked in this way, energy stagnates in the upper body, rather than in the Dahn-jon. If the body is not relaxed enough during breathing and meditation practice, the healthy state of Su-seung-hwa-gang can be reversed, rather than corrected. Therefore, Meridian Stretching focuses on relaxing the upper body by drawing the energy down into the lower Dahn-jon.

breathing and meditation practice guidelines by Ilchi Lee