Big Turn of the Cosmos is the fifth of the 18 qigong exercises that make up the Shaolin 18 Lohan Hands. Also known as Merry Go Round, 大 轉 乾 坤, and DA ZHUAN QIAN KUN, it is one of the more technically demanding exercises in the set and, like Shooting Arrows, makes use of horse riding stance.
Key Benefits of Big Turn of the Cosmos
When practiced as qigong — not merely as physical form — Big Turn of the Cosmos offers the following benefits:
- Good for problems involving the stomach, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys
- Beneficial for back problems and back pain
- Helps those experiencing worry or anxiety
- Good for the ears and can overcome tinnitus
- Massages the internal organs through qi flow
- Beneficial for rheumatism, diabetes, and indigestion
- Effective as a revitalising pick-up when energy is low — useful before a long drive or an important meeting
An Important Note on Form vs. Qigong
The benefits above — including the internal organ massage — are produced by qi flow, not by the physical movements themselves. This pattern only delivers its full effects when practiced as qigong, in a Qigong State of Mind (QSoM). Practicing the movements alone is practicing form, and form is not the art of qigong.
Given the technical demands of this pattern, learning Big Turn of the Cosmos directly from a qualified qigong instructor is strongly recommended. Alternatively, the Qigong15 online course provides structured guidance for those without access to a local instructor.
Next in the 18 Lohan Hands
The next exercise in the set is Punching With Wide Eyes — exercise 6 of the 18 Lohan Hands.
