Embryology Qi: Embryological Mesoderm and the Middle Dantian

Recorded February 20^th – March 27^th, 2023

Description

We will consider our embodiment of space. During the early embryological process, mesoderm was created in the polarity of the endoderm and ectoderm. A two-layered embryo disc transformed into a three-layered disc. The mesoderm forms our vascular system, muscles, bones, and connective tissue. The center of our vascular system resides in the heart. The middle dantian, middle energy center, is in the area of the heart and relates to the sense of emotion in feeling and expression.

Blood originates in the mesoderm. As a yin tissue, it offers us a sense of grounding and connection with the earth; iron in blood has an affinity with the iron in the center of the earth. Embryologically, development of channels and vessels support the movement of blood which swirls and creates the heart center. The heart resides at the center of spirilic movement, clarity, and rejuvenation.

Embryologically, positioning and development of the heart precedes and guides organization of the brain. Development of the thoracic diaphragm and heart are also deeply connected. Coordinating breathing and heart rhythms can lead to deep serenity and One-ness.

One intention of cultivating qi is developing relationship to the physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of our being. Developmental, movement and embryological principles of Body-Mind Centering^© will be applied to simple-to-do qi-movement forms, breathing, and practice.

Original embryology illustrations are included with the live course.

Curriculum

Class 1: Mesoderm. Arising from interplay of endoderm and ectoderm to become extraembryonic mesoderm and intraembryonic mesoderm.

Class 2: Primitive Streak. The primitive streak gives rise to the notochord and the foundation of the early heart.

Class 3: Blood Islands. Blood islands form in the mesoderm of the connecting stalk and yolk sac. Vacuoles form and coalesce to create channels and early blood vessels. These early vessels have an inherent peripheral pulsation.

Class 4: Heart Formation. The heart forms outside of the embryo and draws down into its home in the center of the cathedral of ribs. This is the seat of the middle dantian.

Class 5: Thoracic Diaphragm. The heart and thoracic diaphragm are formed of tissues from several origins. Breathing and heart rhythm have an early embryological connection.

Class 6: Bone Marrow. Blood is eventually formed in the bone marrow and balances the energy expended in the brain and upper dantian.