The microcosmic orbit, (小周天), also known as the Self Winding Wheel of the Law, is a Daoist and Qigong energy cultivation technique, that involves circulating energy, or Qi, along specific pathways in the body. In Japan, it is called “shoshuten,” which means a “circling of light.” The microcosmic orbit is a way to gather, and channel, all the stray energies in the body, and raise them up from the muladhara to the ajna. The two primary points in this circuit are the perineum, located between the genitals and anus (Hui Yin point), and the crown of the head (Bai Hui point).
It follows a circular path, connecting the energy centres known as the “Dan Tian” in Chinese medicine. An orbit is followed, beginning in the lower belly, circling down under the spine, up the back and over the crown of the head, ending at the ajna. This is the inhalation half of the orbit. On exhalation, the orbit is completed, as energy descends along the front of the body, back down to the lower belly.
This activation of energy is a key preparation for many advanced Daoist practices. Through activating the microcosmic orbit, the reservoirs of the Governing Vessel and Conception meridians are refilled, which means this energy is available to all other meridians and organs.
The practice is believed to promote and cultivate health and long life, balance, and prepare the way to a deep spiritual understanding. It is an essential part of various internal energy cultivation practices in traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts.