The 006th session of the Five Qi Morning Origin True Realm, where one transcends the mundane and only hears the teachings

In this situation, Professor Qu can only turn a blind eye and sigh inwardly, yet deep down, he holds very high expectations for the inheritance of medical knowledge. It is said that Qu Zhengbo's ancestors were once apprentices to the renowned physician Sun Simiao during the Sui and Tang dynasties, and his family possesses numerous medical classics passed down through generations, which Qu greatly takes pride in. Unfortunately, his son is unwilling to study traditional Chinese medicine, leaving the old man with no recourse. By chance, he has a granddaughter who is interested in traditional medicine, and naturally, he is very fond of her. However, although this granddaughter is curious about the mysteries of traditional Chinese medicine, her foundation in medical studies is not very solid, which also causes Professor Qu considerable distress.

Meixi's eyes widened in surprise: "Is there really such a concern? What is the realm of the Five Energies Returning to Origin? Could it be that you are the legendary practitioner?"

Reaching the realm of the Five Qi Returning to Origin signifies the pinnacle of an ordinary person's physical condition, where the functions of the five internal organs and the sensations of the five senses are in their optimal state. Such a person can enjoy a long and peaceful life, departing naturally without burdening others. While this individual cannot achieve immortality, they can embody both form and spirit, fulfilling their natural lifespan. "Natural lifespan" refers to the duration of life that a person can maintain in a healthy state of all bodily organs.

Seeing his expression, Mei Xi couldn't help but smile; people often wear such expressions when they are eager to show off their talents. He quickly pressed on, "Is there really such a thing as a divine formula in this world?"

The realm beyond the transformation of one's essence is referred to as "transcendental mastery." Upon reaching this state, one is akin to the immortals spoken of in the world; all the legendary immortals of ancient times were no exception. As for the realm beyond transcendental mastery, Professor Qu Zhengbo has not heard of it.

Meixi: "It is not merely a misunderstanding; there are those who intentionally mislead for their own interests, as well as others who deliberately distort the truth for different agendas. This issue extends beyond medicine; it is likely a matter of underhanded tactics."

Professor Qu raised his eyebrows and said: "How could I possibly be unable to prescribe it? In ancient times, the emperors often had their imperial physicians prescribe this kind of formula. Regardless of one's constitution, there was always a way to concoct a tonic for enhancing vitality. It is not merely about stimulating blood vessels and muscles; it is truly an aphrodisiac that can turn one's spirit upside down. However, only true masters possess this ability. Yet, how can renowned physicians in the world achieve such a feat? It contradicts the principles of medicine."

Professor Qu nodded repeatedly: "What you say resonates deeply with me! Your skills must have been learned from the old master, right? Since you believe, I can explain to you what the realm of the Five Qi Returning to Origin is. Some of the following words are true, which I can verify and deduce myself, while others are merely legends..."

Professor Qu: "How did you know I am a master of internal martial arts?"

Traditional Chinese medicine has placed great emphasis on inheritance. In the past, Sun Simiao sought the original text of Zhang Zhongjing's "Treatise on Febrile Diseases" but was unable to obtain it. Upon finally acquiring it, he was overjoyed and could not put it down, even though he was already a highly respected physician of his time. The transmission of medical classics, such as the "Huangdi Neijing," was not merely about explaining the text in vernacular for students to understand, as is often done in modern classrooms. Instead, it involved a meticulous analysis of each character to elucidate its profound meaning. The simplest requirement for disciples was to memorize everything, with not a single character to be missed. The transmission of medical classics, such as the "Huangdi Neijing," was not merely about explaining the text in vernacular for students to understand, as is often done in modern classrooms. Instead, it involved a meticulous analysis of each character to elucidate its profound meaning. The simplest requirement for disciples was to memorize everything, with not a single character to be missed.

Meixi: "Oh? Does that not mean diagnosing and enhancing vitality?"

Mei Xi originally only wanted to inquire about the medicinal properties of Wushi San, but unexpectedly ended up with such a long string of enigmatic concepts. After blinking for a while, he finally asked, "Professor Qu, what you said is quite mysterious; is any of this true?"

This scholarly spirit seems utterly incredible to modern university students, yet for someone like Professor Qu Zhengbo, who embodies the old traditions, it is merely the simplest of expectations. Unfortunately, among so many cohorts of students, few have been able to meet this standard. During his first semester of teaching, the professor set an unusually challenging exam question worth the highest marks, which required students to transcribe the original text of "The Great Treatise on the Seasonal Harmonization of the Spirit." As a result, a significant number of students failed, with the exception of Mei Xi. Mei Xi's exam paper was flawless, which caught Professor Qu's attention, leading him to remember her name and develop a favorable impression of her.

Meixi: "The essence of Traditional Chinese Medicine in treating ailments lies in harmonization, allowing individuals to return to a naturally balanced state of bodily functions, rather than isolating and stimulating the excessive function of a particular organ"

Professor Qu is quite averse to this. He has publicly stated: "To acknowledge the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine while seeking to abolish it, what is the intention behind this? Without the principles and doctrines of medicine, do you know how those prescriptions are formulated? It is like saying that rice is useless after having eaten enough of it; a group of unfilial wastrels!" His words carry significant weight, and he specifically condemns the "unfilial" nature of such attitudes.

This is Mei Xi's cunning; he does not take the initiative to ask questions, but instead relies on the little knowledge he has acquired and the words that Professor Qu enjoys hearing to speak freely. If he says something incorrect, Professor Qu cannot refrain from correcting him, and once he opens his mouth to correct, he cannot avoid explaining. Thus, the properties of Wushi San become clear without needing to ask. If Professor Qu wants him to continue, he will continue: "Based on my speculation, the properties of Wushi San accelerate dissipation, have a stimulating and exciting effect, somewhat akin to the stimulants used by athletes. Prolonged use can lead to internal deficiency and susceptibility to external pathogens; it is not a good thing... Professor Qu, why are you shaking your head?" If Professor Qu wants him to continue, he will continue: "Based on my speculation, the properties of Wushi San accelerate dissipation, have a stimulating and exciting effect, somewhat akin to the stimulants used by athletes. Prolonged use can lead to internal deficiency and susceptibility to external pathogens; it is not a good thing... Professor Qu, why are you shaking your head?"

Regardless of Mr. Qu's dissatisfaction, the decline of traditional Chinese medicine is a fact. Many people are unwilling to study traditional Chinese medicine, often because they cannot gain admission to other schools of the same tier, which leads them to choose traditional Chinese medicine merely to obtain a diploma. There are not many who genuinely aspire to this field. Currently, the job market is highly competitive, making it difficult for university graduates to find employment, and students from traditional Chinese medicine colleges face even greater challenges. Often, they do not engage in medical practice; those who do well are like Zhang Xiaoning, while those who do poorly are hardly worth mentioning. In this context, who is willing to truly dedicate themselves to studying those obscure and difficult ancient classics that may prove useless in the future?

Meixi was able to take a part-time job in this laboratory and became an assistant to Professor Qu in preparing formulas. This was not only due to the introduction by Qu Yimin but also because the old gentleman took a liking to him; he found him very agreeable. In fact, given Professor Qu's status, there were many who would be willing to be his assistant, but Professor Qu preferred to have Meixi help out, knowing that his family circumstances were not good, and specifically allowed him to earn some extra living expenses.

"Well then, since you insist, I shall take my leave." As he spoke, Mei Xi took a somewhat awkward stance, bending one knee to protect his lower body, turning sideways to push outward with a single palm in a flat motion, attacking Qu Zhengbo's chest. The moment he moved, he felt as if the old man Qu in front of him had shrunk a size, curling up like a monkey, and then suddenly expanding outward like a white crane spreading its wings, the movement so swift it felt like an illusion. Then, Old Qu swiftly struck out, blocking against his forearm. The moment he moved, he felt as if the old man Qu in front of him had shrunk a size, curling up like a monkey, and then suddenly expanding outward like a white crane spreading its wings, the movement so swift it felt like an illusion. Then, Old Qu swiftly struck out, blocking against his forearm.

Mei Xi approached with a smile, saying: "What I practice is merely the skills of farming, how could I possibly compete with a master like you"

Professor Qu: "What is said and what is not said, where there are immortals, there are methods for immortals. Five Stone Powder is not something for ordinary people; it was originally a medicinal concoction consumed by practitioners of cultivation. It has the effect of harmonizing the five energies, and can only be used as an aid when one is about to reach the realm of the five energies converging. Later, the prescription spread to the common people, losing its original intent, and became a fashion among the prominent figures of the Wei and Jin dynasties, even more intense than the current trend of consuming shaking pills in nightclubs. What you just mentioned cannot be considered incorrect either"

Professor Qu did not give a direct answer, but instead retorted: "A doctor like me is unlikely to prescribe a single dose of an aphrodisiac on my own. What do you think the reason is?"

Professor Qu nodded slightly and sighed, saying: "What you said is correct, but now there are too many misunderstandings. For example, Liuwei Dihuang Wan, which is used to replenish kidney qi and nourish yin deficiency, is actually considered a type of aphrodisiac."

As Professor Qu took over, Mei Xi began to elaborate on the topic: "The foundation of enhancing vitality lies in strengthening the muscles, and the key to strengthening the muscles is to soothe the liver, thereby supporting the generation of vital energy. When a person's kidney essence is insufficient, the generation of vital energy becomes weak; at this point, it is necessary to distinguish between yin deficiency and yang deficiency to supplement the kidneys and consolidate the energy. These are two different principles, and one must prescribe the right remedy accordingly... However, I heard you mention in class the effects of Wushi San, which causes the whole body to feel warm without producing significant sweat. Prolonged use leads to delicate skin, indicating that the medicinal properties have penetrated from the heart to the lungs, from the interior to the exterior, yet it can also be used in spring medicine, which is somewhat special compared to the *illustrations* and *books*."

Upon hearing this, Meixi felt there was something to it. With a quick turn of her eyes, she began to speculate: "Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes diagnosis and conditioning, with considerations of the five elements, five energies, five colors, and five flavors. Since Wushi San is named after five stones, it must be able to mobilize the five organs and five energies. The five energies are all in motion—thus, it has the medicinal effects of spring. I wonder if what I said is correct"

Professor Qu: "Hmph, it should be referred to as symptom differentiation and poison administration! ... ... Let’s not discuss that anymore. Weren't we just talking about Wushi San? Please continue your analysis of Wushi San."

The realm of "Five Qi Returning to Origin" represents the pinnacle of physical cultivation for an ordinary person, where all potential is fully activated and the innate vitality is not wasted in the slightest. This has been the foundation for practitioners since ancient times; beyond this realm, it transcends the cultivation of ordinary individuals

Professor Qu shook his head and said: "What you are saying is presumptuous. Let me ask you a question, and you can answer freely: why is it called 'Wushi San'?"

Meixi: "You just mentioned that where there are immortals, there are immortal formulas. Do you really believe that there are immortals in this world?"

The realm beyond the Five Qi Returning to Origin is referred to as "Changing Tendons and Washing Marrow." The Five Qi Returning to Origin merely cultivates the innate physical state to its utmost, while Changing Tendons and Washing Marrow signifies a transformation of the body through cultivation, endowing it with abilities that ordinary people do not possess. Lifespan is also greatly extended; theoretically, reaching the highest realm of Changing Tendons and Washing Marrow allows for a lifespan of three cycles, with one cycle equating to sixty years. Practitioners from various schools possess secret transmission techniques, each differing in effects and methods. Lifespan is also greatly extended; theoretically, reaching the highest realm of Changing Tendons and Washing Marrow allows for a lifespan of three cycles, with one cycle equating to sixty years. Practitioners from various schools possess secret transmission techniques, each differing in effects and methods.

Meixi was also quite surprised and touched her forehead, saying: "I really am at a loss. Since I guessed correctly to some extent, why do you say I am being presumptuous? The five energies are all in motion, and of course, that means accelerated dissipation. What is wrong with that?"

The realm beyond the transformation of muscles and cleansing of marrow is referred to as "rebirth and renewal." When the changes in the body reach their pinnacle, the entire person, both internally and externally, will exhibit a completely new vitality, transcending the ordinary mortal. It is said that this can be considered akin to the legendary celestial beings.

Meixi: "Xingyi Quan? I have heard of the great names of Dai Longbang, Ma Xueli, and Li Cunyi. Which lineage does your skill come from?"

Professor Qu laughed upon hearing this: "You have never even seen Wushi San, yet you dare to speculate about its medicinal properties. Quite interesting, and there is indeed a bit of reasoning behind it. In today's society, various chaotic tonics for enhancing vitality all claim to nourish the kidneys, yet you first thought of liver soothing from the term 'spring medicine.' This shows a somewhat knowledgeable perspective. Please elaborate further."

Meixi: "I have heard that you once demonstrated the extraordinary skill of threading a needle through glass, which is certainly an internal martial art technique. I would not dare to embarrass myself by attempting it."

Later, Qu Yimin introduced Mei Xi to Professor Qu's laboratory for part-time work. Upon hearing his name, Professor Qu nodded in recognition. During their interactions, he discovered that this young man was not only intelligent and quick-witted but also remarkably solid in his learning. He truly regarded studying medicine as an opportunity for inquiry, which greatly pleased the old gentleman, and Mei Xi managed to cater to his preferences.

Sigh! While replacing the label on the drawer containing red resin with that of cold bird droppings crystal, Mei Xi let out a long sigh and asked Professor Qu: "Why is it that so many people studying medicine do not understand that the medical path is not merely about prescribing medicine to treat illness, but more importantly, it is a way of life?"

Professor Qu glared and said: "You have stirred up my craving; are you not going to accompany me for a moment? Do you look down on me because I am old? Rest assured, I will not harm you."

The old man chuckled and said: "You are not bad, kid. You are not just an ordinary farmer; you have also cultivated internal strength. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to throw you against the wall just now... My skills have no school or sect; if one must categorize them, they could be considered Xingyiquan."

Old man Qu's eyes lit up as he stood up: "Kid, you actually guessed two or three points correctly!"

This is a common ailment among contemporary students. Ancient classic works such as "Huangdi Neijing" and "Shanghan Lun" have become quite daunting for modern readers, almost serving as hypnotic literature. Who still has the capacity to study their profound meanings word by word? Most likely, they just aim to pass exams after a cursory review. Moreover, there is a trend in contemporary China where a group of "elite individuals" clamors for the abolition of traditional Chinese medicine, and even within the academic community, there are discussions about "retaining medicine while discarding the practice of medicine".

Professor Qu remained silent, letting out a huff filled with anger. Upon hearing this cold snort, Mei Xi understood why Professor Qu looked unfavorably upon someone like Zhang Xiaoning. He smiled and quietly asked, "Professor Qu, you just mentioned that it is unlikely for you to prescribe a dose of aphrodisiac alone. Is it because you are unwilling or because you cannot?"

Mei Xi: "I heard that during the Republic of China period, some scholars criticized traditional Chinese medicine with this statement, but I believe that this state of life does exist. Many people do not believe it simply because they cannot achieve it in their own lives. My great-grandfather, Mr. Mei, is ninety-three years old this year and is in very good health, so I have no doubt about the realm described by this statement."

Mei Xi furrowed her brows and said seriously: "Taking medicine when one is not ill is not a good thing. I believe that Wushi San is definitely not something one takes only when sick, right? While reading 'Shishuo Xinyu' in the library, I always feel that the temperament of the scholars in that chaotic era is somewhat constrained by liver qi. Their demeanor appears reckless and indulgent, yet their inner state seems quite profound. Professor Qu mentioned that Wushi San is a spring medicine. I think the spring medicine you refer to must differ from the usual understanding, so its medicinal properties are likely to soothe the liver and relieve depression."

Mei Xi is still young, yet he is exceptionally clever and charming, adept at pleasing others. Moreover, he possesses a quality that Professor Qu values highly—meticulousness and seriousness. The old gentleman teaches large lecture classes to undergraduates, focusing on the classic theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which are the most tedious yet profound aspects of the "medical way." Although the old gentleman's teaching style is very lively, most students merely treat it as storytelling and do not invest effort in studying the classics for deeper understanding. The old gentleman teaches large lecture classes to undergraduates, focusing on the classic theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which are the most tedious yet profound aspects of the "medical way." Although the old gentleman's teaching style is very lively, most students merely treat it as storytelling and do not invest effort in studying the classics for deeper understanding

This statement resonates well with Professor Qu. The old man sat leisurely at the large table, holding a teacup, and said: "This is the distinction between medical principles and medical practices. The purpose of treating an illness is to return to a normal life. Therefore, a person's attitude towards life is also encompassed within medical principles. Understanding this reasoning is sufficient. The prevalent diseases, the medications taken for illnesses, and even the medications taken when one is healthy all reflect the social landscape of an era"

In that instant, Mei Xi heard a faint sound resembling a "wave" generated by compressed air near her ear, and a gentle force surged through her body, causing her feet to involuntarily leave the ground and fly backward. It was not until she was two meters away that she managed to stabilize her stance and land. To save face for the elder, she took a few more steps back, finally steadying herself against the wall, and cupped her fists in salute, saying: "Elder, I have truly learned a lesson today. I am ashamed; despite my youth and strength, I couldn't even withstand a single exchange with you. What school or style of martial arts is this?"

Professor Qu shook his head slightly, his expression somewhat smug: "That is indeed correct, but you have forgotten that Wushi San, being renowned as a divine remedy, is not an ordinary medical prescription and cannot be understood so simplistically"

Professor Qu smiled again: "I originally didn't want to discuss these matters with anyone, but today you brought it up, so let me share a bit with you. I heard that you practiced martial arts in the countryside since you were young, come over and spar with me." As he spoke, he walked to the center of the laboratory.

Professor Qu: "The Xingyi Quan I practice is not the Xingyi Quan you speak of. I have not learned the large and small frames in martial arts; it is merely the internal cultivation of the medical practitioners. It was originally created by the divine physician Hua Tuo and passed down to our Qu family ancestors by the Medicine King Sun Simiao... Today, as I engage with you, I wish to explain the realm of the Five Qi Returning to Origin. Let me ask you, do you believe in the statement from the 'Huangdi Neijing' that says, 'In ancient times, people lived to be a hundred years old in both spring and autumn, and their movements did not decline'?"

Professor Qu squinted his eyes and replied, "I can't say for sure whether it's true or false. This is how it has been passed down in my family. The realm of 'Five Energies Converging to the Origin' is something I can verify for myself, but I have only reached that realm. After all, I am just an ordinary person"

The "Neijing" states, "The sage does not treat existing illnesses but addresses those that have yet to arise." It views the human body as a system that interacts with the operation of the heavenly principles, advocating for the regulation and adjustment of the five organs and the five vital energies along their meridians to achieve an optimal state, which is referred to as "the five energies converging to the origin." Although it is attributed to ancient figures, it indeed has a specific reference.