Most people never think about their bone marrow, yet it plays one of the most important roles in the body. Bone marrow produces the blood cells that carry oxygen, fight infection, and keep our bodies functioning properly. As we age, the activity of our bone marrow gradually declines, which can affect energy, immunity, and recovery. In the Shaolin tradition, there is a practice designed to support this deep internal system: Xi Sui Jing Qigong “Bone Marrow Cleansing”.
At the Shaolin Temple, we believe that practicing Xi Sui Jing helps the body become its own doctor. We are not literally cleaning the marrow; we’re creating the best internal conditions for it to regenerate and function properly.
Here’s what happens when you practice Xi Sui Jing:
- Improved blood flow - We use a specialised Qigong breathing method which increases circulation to the bones and tissues. More blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to bone marrow cells, which supports the production of red and white blood cells.
- Stem cell stimulation - These traditional Qigong movements create mild mechanical signals within the bones. These signals can encourage hematopoietic stem cells — the cells that produce blood — to stay active and healthy, helping to slow age-related decline.
- Hormonal and nervous system balance - The specialised Qigong breathing helps lower stress hormones such as cortisol. Lower stress helps the marrow microenvironment remain supportive for cell growth rather than being suppressed by chronic stress.
- A detox-like effect - Bone marrow doesn’t accumulate waste but stagnation in circulation can slow the removal of old or damaged cells. Xi Sui Jing promotes circulation, lymph flow, and nutrient exchange within the marrow, helping to refresh the internal environment so new, healthy blood cells can thrive.
Xi Sui Jing is designed to support vitality from deep within the body. Through regular training, it helps improve circulation, strengthen internal energy, and support the body’s natural ability to maintain balance and health.
If you’d like to experience this practice for yourself, I’ll be teaching Xi Sui Jing in a live online masterclass, where I guide you step by step through the breathing methods and movements used in this traditional Shaolin training. Click here to learn more and reserve your place. If you can’t make the live class, I also offer a streaming class you can follow at your own pace.