How to Choose the Right Tree? (The Trickiest Part)

You mentioned it is hard to tell the specific energy of different trees. Use a method that is actionable instead:

Use your body’s reaction as the indicator instead of identifying the tree species.

Stand under the tree for 30 seconds to 1 minute and notice:

• Does your chest feel lighter or tighter?
  • Lighter - the tree’s Qi is stable; good for practice.
  • Tighter - the Qi is chaotic or the pressure is too strong; unsuitable.
• Do your palms and soles feel slightly warm?
  • Warm and relaxed - the energy is stable.
  • Numb, stuffy, or heavy - the tree’s energy is too mixed or not a match.
• Does your breathing naturally lengthen?
  • Yes - good for practice.
  • Shortens or you feel a sudden urge to leave - unsuitable.

You do not need to analyze the tree’s energy. Use your own Qi sensation as the most direct judgment.

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The Simplest Recommendation (Based on Your Current Practice)

If you are unsure how to choose, start with this setup:

Find a spot with dappled shade (not too dark, not too dense), about 1.5 to 2 meters from the trunk.

This setup lets you:

1. Block strong, direct sunlight.
2. Avoid being suppressed by heavy, direct energy from the trunk.
3. Inhale clean, flowing natural Qi.
4. Keep your circulation open and unblocked.

This is better for your current stage of Qi regulation than practicing under direct sun.

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The Logic Behind the 1.5- to 2-Meter Distance

This distance uses the properties of the biofield:

• Avoiding Qi conflict: Too close to the trunk (within 0.5 meters) you risk interference from the tree’s vertical flow. Some trees act like a pump - pulling energy out or forcing it in - which can overwhelm you.
• Enjoying the field: The 1.5- to 2-meter mark is often the edge of the canopy’s shadow, the boundary of the tree’s Wei Qi (protective Qi). Here you get soft, scattered light and an oxygen-rich layer filtered by leaves. Think of a photography softbox turning harsh light into a gentle glow the body absorbs more easily.

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Shifting from Brain Analysis to Body Awareness

“Stop using your brain to identify the tree; start using your body’s reaction (chest, palms, breath)” - this guides you into awareness.

Why does this work? Because everyone’s condition shifts. An old pine may nourish someone with weak Qi but feel drying or heating for someone with excess internal fire. Your immediate body reaction is the truth.

This removes the anxiety of “not knowing the tree.” You do not need to know the type, only whether you feel comfortable.

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One Extra Step: A Small Ritual to Keep Things Clean

If you worry the energy under the tree is not clean enough, add this:

1. Simple cleansing: Before practice, lightly tap your shoulders, rub your ears, and tap Baihui (crown of the head). This quick “clearing and calming” cue tells your body, “I am about to start metabolizing.”
2. Face east or southeast in early morning. This aligns with rising wood Qi, helping expel the old and take in the new.