Structure of the Bones
Fascia holds the structure of the skeletal system. Through regular activity, such as Tai chi, chi kung, yoga, even waking, the fascia and tendons stay tight and are filled with energy. Strong fascia and tendons lead to strong muscles and bones. When these physical parts of the body are used, they become strong and the organism moves as a unified whole. When they aren’t used, they become weak.
Gravity and the force the earth exerts on us can be a powerful tool in physical and spiritual development. Astronauts lose bone density and strength in a weightless environment. Taoist masters believe that standing in certain postures creates a counterforce to the earths pull. This counterforce strengthens the bones, muscles, tendons, and fascia.
When the bones are strong, they are filled with marrow that produces blood cells. When the bones become less active and weaker, they hollow out and the marrow is replaced by fat. Eventually the bones become brittle and can be more prone to breaking. 81 Taoist sitting, standing, and moving exercises are outlined in The Alchemist’s Tao Te Ching: Transforming Your Lead Into Gold