Eight Pieces of Brocade (EPB) is a set of eight individual modules of
movements that were originated in the Song dynasty (960 – 1279). It was
initially used to enhance the physical health of soldiers and extended its
footprint among common people. The same uttering sound of duàn jǐn can
be rendered as Chinese characters of “break” and “meridian”. It means
“stretching your body so far as to break your sinew/meridian” in order to
improve the flexibility of your body.
EPB can be performed while standing or seated. In the modern era, the
standing version is by far the most widely practiced. The names of EPB
according to Taoist tradition are listed below.
1. Two hands raise heaven to regulate the triple burners (双手托天理三焦)
2. Pull the bow left and right to shoot the eagle (左右开弓似射雕)
3. Adjust the spleen and stomach by lifting one hand (调理脾胃须单举)
4. Looking backwards to relieve the five fatigues and seven injuries (五劳七伤往后
瞧)
5. Sway the head and wag the tail to expel heart fire (摇头摆尾去心火)
6. Standing on the tip-toes to eliminate Illnesses (背后七颠百病消)
7. Punching with a fierce gaze (攒拳怒目增力气)
8. Holding the feet with two hands to strengthen the kidney and lumbar area (两手
攀足固肾腰)
