It refers to the process of purification that the organism carries out by extracting nutritious substances from air, food and drink.

The ones responsible for generating this essence are the Lungs, the Stomach and the Spleen.

• Stomach and Spleen are in charge of digesting, transforming and transporting food. They produce Qi from it.
• The Lungs extract Qi from air.
• When the Qi of food and the Qi of respiration unite in the chest, Gathering Qi (Zong Qi) is generated, and when it carries out all its cycles nourishing and protecting the organism, the remainder is stored in the Kidneys forming the Post-Heaven Essence.

Therefore, it is vital to guard life with good habits that lead to enriching and treasuring it.

• Adequate nutrition (neither in excess nor less than necessary).
• "Conscious" sexuality (avoiding excessive ejaculations in men).
• Emotional balance (good attitude towards life).
• Work-life balance (work - rest).

Any excess or deficiency will affect the essence and with it body wear or its health.

• Meditation, martial arts, TaiChi, QiGong or breathing exercises are good ways to help nourish and not deplete so quickly the Essence of Pre-Heaven.

See: Pre-Heaven Qi