Lifting the Sky is the first of the 18 qigong exercises that make up the Shaolin 18 Lohan Hands. Also known as Both Hands Lift Sky, 雙 手 托 天, and SHUANG SHOU TUO TIAN — a name that translates literally as “both hands lift sky” — it holds the opening position in two of the most famous qigong sets in the world: the Shaolin 18 Lohan Hands and the 8 Pieces of Brocade. This double pedigree is part of why it is one of the most widely practiced qigong exercises in existence — and for good reason.
Key Benefits of Lifting the Sky
When practiced as qigong — not merely as physical form — Lifting the Sky offers the following benefits:
- Excellent for generating energy flow throughout the body
- Overcomes posture problems and supports a healthy back
- Benefits those who find it hard to relax, think too much, or struggle to focus
- Can provide relief for post-birth incontinence
- Effective for haemorrhoid relief when practiced with a specific gentle visualisation
In TCM terms, Lifting the Sky is closely associated with regulating the Triple Burner (San Jiao) — the system governing the transformation and distribution of energy through the body’s three main cavities. This is part of why its effects are so broad: rather than targeting a single organ or meridian, it works on the body’s overall energy regulation. The result is an exercise that feels simultaneously grounding and invigorating.
How to Practice Lifting the Sky
The movement is simple and continuous — there are no sharp stops or transitions:
- Stand upright with feet a few inches apart and arms relaxed at your sides
- Bring both hands in front of you with palms facing down, fingertips pointing toward each other
- Inhale gently as you arc both arms upward until the palms face the sky
- At the top, press gently upward — as though lifting the sky — while keeping the shoulders relaxed
- Exhale as you lower the arms back down in a wide arc to the sides, like wings descending
- Repeat for 10–20 repetitions, keeping the movement fluid throughout
This describes the physical form. The benefits listed above come from practicing it as qigong — with a relaxed, present state of mind and genuine attention to energy flow, not just movement.
Why Lifting the Sky Is the Most Versatile Exercise in the Set
Lifting the Sky works across the full spectrum of qigong practice — from beginner to master level. A newcomer can use it to address health and vitality issues; an advanced practitioner can use the very same pattern to achieve profound states of energy and awareness. As one student described it:
“This is my favourite pattern because it’s the Swiss army knife of all qigong exercises. By practicing this one pattern I can enjoy all the benefits from radiant health to spiritual joy.”
This range is rare. Most exercises in the 18 Lohan Hands set serve specific purposes — Lifting the Sky serves all of them.
An Important Note on Form vs. Qigong
The benefits above are only available when this exercise is practiced as qigong — with a Qigong State of Mind (QSoM) and genuine energy flow. Practicing the physical movements alone — the form — will not produce these results. The form is not the art of qigong.
Learning directly from a qualified instructor is strongly recommended. If that isn’t possible, your next best option is to learn qigong online. Lifting the Sky is taught in full in my online course.
Next in the 18 Lohan Hands
The next exercise in the set is Shoot Arrows Left Right — exercise 2 of the 18 Lohan Hands.
