Chinese Qigong practice, from early C20 illustrated MS

Illustration of practice named 'Pressing the Summit with Left and Right [Hands]' (zuoyou an ding) from a manuscript copy of Weisheng hebi (Harmonious Assemblage of Preserving Life) made in 1914 (3rd year of the Chinese Republic, Jia Yin year).

Weisheng hebi is a compendium of 'nourishing life' (yang sheng) literature. It draws on more than 20 texts, ancient and modern, some of which are reproduced in their entirety, and includes explanations and notes on obscure passages.

Method for 'Pressing the Summit with Left and Right [Hands]': Rub the hands together and breath out with a 'ha' sound 5 times. Then entwine the hands and press them energetically upwards 3-9 times.