Try This Drill to Prime Your Nervous System!

Do you ever just not feel like training?

I know I do. Usually, I know on a mental level that I should be training. However, it’s as though every fiber in my being resisting actually getting off my ass.

Luckily I know a technique that gives me both a mental and physical energy boost.  

Dubious Origins -

I originally learned this technique when I was 15 from the “Chi Power Plus” (SPC-USA) course that used to be sold out of the back of martial arts magazines.

Most of the course was filled with useless exercises and information about a bizarre “Space-Christianity” (I kid you not). However, I learned two very valuable techniques. The first was Zhan Zhuang, or standing meditation. The other is the subject of this post: Blood Washing.

Blood Washing –

I honestly don’t know how this exercise got its name or where it came from (though it is very similar to a Buddhist Qigong I was once taught). All I know is that it works.

A few of the benefits of Blood Washing are:

·         It stimulates your nervous system and gets you ready for action.

·         It improves blood flow.

·         Gives you a mental boost (better than a cup of coffee, I’d say)

·         Improves sensitivity and performance (for fighting or training)

So, now I’m sure you’re done with me going on and on about how awesome this drill is and you just want to know how to do it:

The Exercise -


You can do Blood Washing either sitting or standing. I prefer sitting. You will want to wear as little clothing as possible.


Start off by placing your right hand and placing it on your left shoulder. In one single stroke bring your hand down your left arm to the top of your left hand, continue the movement by going over the top of the left hand to the palm and back up the underside of the left arm towards the armpit.


Once at the armpit move your right hand down the left side of your torso, down the outside of your left, over the top of your left foot to the sole of your left foot, and finally up the inside of your left leg towards your groin.




Once at your groin switch hands. Your left hand should be placed at the top (inner side) of your right leg. Stroke down the inside of your right leg towards the sole of your right foot, over to the top of your right foot, up the outside of your right leg, continuing up the right side of your torso to your armpit, down the underside of right arm to your palm, around to the top of your right hand, and finally up the top of the right arm to the right shoulder.


That is one rep. Make sure you maintain contact with the skin at all times. During the first 3 reps you should lightly squeeze the tip of each finger and toe. Complete 50-200 reps a day (if you move quickly enough 200 can be done in 10-15 minutes, perhaps less).


Conclusion –


This is a great exercise that can be used when you wake up or alongside a good warm up routine prior to training.


I hope you enjoy the drill and I really encourage you to add it to your routine.


Train Hard,
Josh Skinner (donjitsu2)