Inner Alchemy Exercise #3: Saliva Qigong
Saliva Qigong is a unique and lesser-known practice within the broader system of Taoist Inner Alchemy.
In traditional Taoist alchemy, saliva is regarded as a precious fluid that carries life force and can be transformed into an “Immortality Pill” through conscious intention and energy cultivation.
The practice involves three key components:
- The generation and circulation of saliva – stimulating the production of saliva through specific techniques, including chewing, tongue movement, and controlled breathing.
- The infusion of cosmic energy into the saliva – drawing in external Qi (cosmic energy) and mixing it with the saliva to enhance its energetic properties.
- The guiding of energy-imbued saliva to the tan tien – Using focused intention and swallowing techniques to send this vital elixir to the body’s energy centre, where it is stored and transformed.
Why is saliva considered so potent in Taoist practice? The answer lies in its unique ability to absorb, store, and transfer energy. Saliva, composed mostly of water, carries a highly conductive property, making it an excellent medium for Qi transmission.
Saliva is believed to hold special regenerative properties, and when combined with Qi, it becomes a powerful healing substance. Ancient Taoist masters observed that saliva, when consciously cultivated and stored in the body, could increase vitality, moisten the organs, enhance digestion, and act as an internal medicine. Some Taoist texts even describe saliva as containing the essential nutrients needed to sustain the body at the highest levels of health.
When infused with intention and cosmic Qi, saliva transforms from an ordinary bodily fluid into an energised elixir that strengthens the body from the inside out.
Practicing Saliva Qigong regularly has profound benefits for both physical health and energetic balance. Some of the key effects include:
- Eliminating Toxins & Killing Germs – The energy-imbued saliva acts as an internal detoxifier, purifying the body at a deep level.
- Moisturising & Nourishing the Organs – A well-hydrated system promotes optimal function of the digestive tract, kidneys, and other organs.
- Increasing Oxygenation – The absorption of cosmic energy enhances oxygen delivery to cells, promoting longevity and endurance.
- Releasing Longevity Hormones – Taoist teachings suggest that saliva contains special hormones that, when consciously cultivated, contribute to anti-aging effects.
- Strengthening Teeth & Gums – Regular practice improves oral health, preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
In the following step-by-step method, as presented in Mantak Chia’s teachings, we explore how to activate, energise, and integrate saliva as a vital force within the body.
Step 1: Mixing Saliva, Air, and Cosmic Qi
The first step in Saliva Qigong is to stimulate saliva production while simultaneously gathering cosmic Qi to infuse into the saliva.
(i) Increase Saliva Production
- Chew gently with the mouth closed to stimulate the flow of saliva.
- Mix the saliva with air and oxygen in the mouth, increasing its volume and potency.
- Use the tongue to massage the gums, further stimulating saliva flow.
- Lightly knock the teeth together to activate the jaw’s energy channels, strengthening the bones and stimulating further saliva production.
(ii) Open to Cosmic Energy
- Raise your palms towards the sky, opening yourself to the vast energy of the cosmos.
- Smile to the universe and set the intention to receive pure, nourishing Qi.
(iii) Absorb Cosmic Qi into Saliva
- With your mouth closed, activate a slight suction in the throat.
- Allow the abdomen to act as a “suction pump,” drawing cosmic Qi through the mid-eyebrow, down the nose, into the mouth, and into the saliva.
- Visualise the saliva becoming charged with vibrant cosmic light, turning into an energetic elixir.
(This image is from Mantak Chia)
By the end of this step, your saliva is no longer just a bodily fluid — it is infused with cosmic energy, ready to be directed into your body’s energy centre.
Step 2: Swallowing with Force to Push the Energy into the Navel
The next step involves swallowing the energy-imbued saliva with conscious intention, directing it into the lower tan tien, the body’s primary energy storage centre.
(i) Prepare the Body
- Exhale completely, flattening the stomach to create space.
- Tuck the chin down slightly to tighten the neck and throat, ensuring proper energy flow.
- Hold the breath for a moment before swallowing.
(ii) Swallow with Energy
- Swallow the saliva with force, consciously guiding the energy down the throat.
- Perform three powerful swallows, each one pushing the energy deeper into the navel centre.
- Visualise the saliva moving downward as a stream of luminous energy, filling the tan tien.
By swallowing with conscious force, the energy does not dissipate but is instead compressed into the navel, where it is stored and refined. This is a key step in ensuring that the vitality from the saliva remains within the body rather than being lost.
(This image is from Mantak Chia)
Step 3: Letting the Combined Energy Heal the Body
Once the energy-imbued saliva reaches the tan tien, it begins to circulate throughout the body, supporting regeneration, strengthening the organs, and increasing overall vitality.
(i) Cover the Navel
- Place both hands over the navel area, focusing attention on the warmth and energy accumulating within.
- Feel the saliva transform into a powerful Qi force, fueling the internal fire of the tan tien.
(ii) Feel the Qi Ball Rolling
- Visualise a radiant energy ball forming in the lower abdomen.
- Imagine the Qi ball spinning, condensing, and strengthening the body’s internal energy reserves.
(iii) Breathe and Circulate the Energy
- When the need to breathe arises, exhale gently and naturally.
- Continue focusing on the rolling energy in the tan tien, allowing it to spread its nourishing effects throughout the body.
(This image is from Mantak Chia)
