Four Foundations of Mindfulness Practice: Questions and Answers Part 5

Question: During the latter part of observing the breath, I feel my spine being pulled tightly, and sometimes there is a sensation of qi flow at the Baihui point. What is the reason for this? 

Answer: This occurs because when the mind becomes calm, it no longer obstructs the movement of qi. The qi flows smoothly, moving from the dantian to the coccyx point, then surging upward along the Governor Vessel (Du Mai) on the back, stretching the back straight. The qi may even surge upward to the head, stimulating the Baihui point, and finally exit the body through Baihui. This indicates that the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) and Governor Vessel (Du Mai) in the body are unobstructed, signifying relatively good physical health. The mind is also able to settle into stillness, suggesting favorable meditative concentration. This state is beneficial for practicing the Four Foundations of Mindfulness.