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The I Ching DAO PRACTICE FORMATION PROGRAM
Juan Li
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step: Lao Tze
1 INTRODUCTORY LEVEL
2 DEVELOPING THE FOUNDATIONS
3 GENERATING BENEFIT: Strengthening the Spirit - Clearing the 7 energy centers
4 DEVELOPING THE POTENTIAL OF THE MERIDIAN SYSTEM:
5 TRANSCENDENCE PRACTICES:
1. INTRODUCTORY LEVEL
THE INNER SMILE
This is the first step in the Tao and the most important. The Inner
Smile is the opening key to the world of communicating with ourselves
through feeling. Without the ability to feel there is no Daoist practice,
just ideas and mental concepts.
Feeling focuses the consciousness on the present moment which is where
the energy is available at all times. The Inner Smile connects us directly
with the life force.
THE SIX HEALING SOUNDS
The ability to influence the energy flow in the basic organs is
developed through the Six Healing Sounds. By altering the energy flow
through the organs we begin to have a direct effect on the emotions
and the way we feel. This is also the first step in learning to revitalize
ourselves through energy practices.
The ability to feel begun with the Inner Smile is now developed further
feeling each organ. This practice is also called ‘Falling in Love
with the Organs’ and the outcome is greater self-care and self-respect.
QI GONG: BASIC STRETCHING
A simple sequence of stretching from the toes to the head for increasing
energy flow and unifying the body.
The important breathing exercise called Spinal Chord Breathing helps
change the quality of the blood and the mind thus improving the ability
to focus clearly and experience calmness
This stretching sequence is the prelude to all Taoist energy practices.
Its daily practice increases the feeling of self-esteem.
STRUCTURAL ALINGNMENT 1: EMBRACING THE TREE POSTURE
An essential part of energy work is having the proper physical alignment
between the two key sources of energy, namely the earth below and heaven
above. Without proper alignment it is impossible to focus the mind clearly
and for indefinite periods of time without growing fatigued.
The standing position called Embracing the Tree aligns all the bones
in the most efficient way possible. The bones through their crystalline
structure are ‘antennas’ through which earth and heavenly
energies blend and circulate. This posture energizes the body with a
minimum of effort and in the beginning stages helps discover within
minutes where blockages preventing proper flow are located. Its daily
practice lays the foundations for personal integrity in our actions
and thoroughness in what we do.
THE MICROCOSMIC ORBIT
This is the first practice in which we make direct contact with
the life force and its flow through the meridian system. It is impossible
to deepen energy work without having a clear and conscious experience
of what energy feels like.
The Microcosmic Orbit is a circular path through the spine and the front
part of the body connecting with the complete meridian system all over
the body. It is considered the ‘Main Street’ of energy flow
therefore it is essential to maintain this avenue open and moving.
Each time we consciously complete one circuit of the Microcosmic Orbit
the personal level of vitality increases.
All Taoist energy practices at the end lead to the Microcosmic Orbit
and it is through this practice that we begin a life-long friendship
with the life force. Daily practice generates the feeling of personal
power and the ability to efficiently carry out our purpose.
POINT OF VIEW 1: THE EIGHT TRIGRAMS OF THE I CHING.
THE GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF ENERGY WORK
Working creatively with energy is not just a long series of techniques
applied mechanically. For long range work with techniques we need a
motivating force which can carry us gracefully in times of opposition
and difficulties. The motivating force to persevere is provided by having
a clear and powerful point of view orienting our actions. The most highly
motivated practitioners are people terminally ill with a death sentence
from their doctors who decide to live and set out to do whatever is
required to attain it. Their motivation for practice could not get any
clearer than that.
One finds that if the motivation for practice is strong it becomes a
source of energy for carrying out techniques. If motivation is not strong
then the most powerful techniques will not be enough to bring about
lasting transformation.
Without clear guiding principles energy work falls back on improvisation
and guess work and may ultimately prove ineffective in generating lasting
change.
The Eight Trigrams of the I Ching are the eight fundamental principles
for carrying out energy work in a balanced way. They provide a point
of view designed to carry the practitioner from raw beginner to transcendence
from limitations.
Acting on a regular basis with the eight principles in mind generates
a powerful sense of destiny and clarity.
2 THE SIX FOUNDATION PRACTICES OF THE INTRODUCTORY
LEVEL
The six practices from the introductory level work together as a
unit. Each practice generates a particular range of energy frequencies
which combined set in motion the process of personal transformation
toward a new level of health and well-being.
In order for these practices to take root a minimum of six months of
daily work is recommended before one moves into the next level for Developing
the Foundations.
DEVELOPING THE FOUNDATION
The sexual energy is the most concentrated energy the body is capable
of producing. This energy is intended for creating another human being
when directed out into the world. When directed upwards through the
meridian system it generates higher consciousness and levels of vitality
which repair and rejuvenate the glands, the nervous system and the organs.
Since our emotions are intimately connected with the vital organs the
recycled sexual energy is capable of multiplying the emotions flowing
from the organs. We are capable of multiplying great generosity to the
level of infinite care or anger of the most destructive kind.
The recycling of sexual energy requires a sustained regular practice
transforming the negative emotions otherwise it becomes a double-edged
sword in the hands of the inexperienced beginner.
If the Introductory Level has generated a good flow through the meridian
system and organs the sexual practices will empower that flow with higher
frequencies. The organism will eventually re-structure itself at a higher
level of vitality furthering the process of evolution. A product of
successfully recycling the sexual energy is a greater sense of energy
integrity, personal boundaries and social relationships based on mutual
trust and respect.
FUSION OF THE FIVE ELEMENTS I: HEALING THE EMOTIONAL
PAST
One of the eight principles for energy work is learning to complete
whatever we start. Finishing is important because every time we start
something we set in motion a cycle of energy flow seeking resolution.
If a cycle is not completed then the energy it carries is not liberated
for other purposes. Our unfinished situations from the past are all
cycles holding a tremendous amount of potential energy. Enough to succeed
at whatever we set out to do.
The ability to set a goal, sustain it and carry it to fruition depends
on efficient energy flow between heaven, earth and our energy system.
Unfinished situations are like speed bumps and roadblocks we present
the life force with. The Fusion of the Five Elements I is designed to
help us bring to conclusions the cycles from the past and open the energy
system to receive the infinite flow from the universe.
Whatever we set out to do is accomplished not through hoarding energy
but rather through allowing the infinite ocean of the life force to
flow through us and be directed to the goals we set.
The ability to dig into our past and persevere at resolving old issues
is made possible through everything we have set in motion with the introductory
practices and the level of personal integrity which has emerged. One
of the products of the Fusion I is a powerful sense of inner stability
unaffected by the turmoil in the world. This is manifested as an effortless
ability to inspire others to do their best.
STRUCTURAL ALIGNMENT 2: THE SIX POSTURES OF IRON SHIRT
The creative alignment of the bone structure begun at the Introductory
Level with the Embracing the Tree posture is now expanded and deepened
with five other postures. These postures help stretch the connective
tissue, a layer of micro-meridians bathing every organ and muscle in
a rich ocean of energy. Also stretched are different sets of meridians
and tendons running from the toes to the hands.
The tendons not only give elasticity to movement but also function as
a separate meridian system. If the tendons are regularly exercised they
remain flexible and with a good flow till the end of our lives. If they
are neglected we stiffen, lose range of motion and physically become
more limited. The stiffening taking place at the physical level is reflected
automatically in our mental and emotional outlook. We become emotionally
inflexible and limited in our ability to express our deepest feelings.
Healthy living organisms are extremely flexible in contrast to dead
bodies which are stiff and cold. The Six Postures are givers of life
and bringers of warmth. The versatility developed through these postures
gives a powerful support to the work with the emotions taking place
with the Fusion I and the Six Healing Sounds.
BONE BREATHING: REGROWING THE BONE MARROW
At the Introductory Level the Embracing the Tree posture help us
align the bone structure in the most efficient way for increasing earth
and heavenly flow. The blending of earth and heavenly energies takes
place in the bone marrow. Unfortunately through poor nutrition, too
rich in sugar and acidifying foods, we begin to lose bone mass in our
youth and by middle age it is noticeable that our level of vitality
is not what it used to be. Our level of vitality and sparkle in life
depends to a large extent on the health of our bone marrow.
The Bone Breathing practice is designed to help us regrow the bone marrow
and develop a higher level of vitality. Without this step it can be
said that accomplishing our goals becomes a lot more difficult because
we lack the ability to sustain focus or the vitality to tackle difficulties.
One of the outcomes of increased bone mass is a greater sense of creativity
and sparkle.
STRUCTURAL ALIGNMENT 3: TAI CHI CHUAN 1
The work with the structure that has been carried out up to this
level has been done with static positions, either standing or seated.
At this level we learn to put the structure in movement while maintaining
the alignment and integrity cultivated in the previous steps.
The blending of earth and heavenly energies taking place through the
bone structure is specifically the interacting of the two polarities
which make life possible: yin and yang, negative and positive, female
and male, flexible and firm.
The interacting of yin and yang results in a third force called The
Creative Energy. All creation takes place through the Creative Energy.
All the work with the structure we have carried up to this level has
as a deeper purpose the welcoming of The Creative Energy.
Tai Chi Chuan consists of a series of slow movements done while maintaining
alignment between heaven and earth. The movements increase the flow
of Creative Energy. This skill in movement becomes the way we move in
ordinary situations in life: aligned, centered, connected, grounded,
full of purpose without effort and self-confident.
Tai Chi Chuan is the step which brings energy practice into the ordinary
situations of our lives. Living and practice become one with a minimum
of effort and striving.
The flowing movements of Tai Chi mirror the way we flow through situations
in life.
POINT OF VIEW 2: THE I CHING AS AN ADVISOR
The eight trigrams we encountered at the Introductory Level form
the basic language spoken in the I Ching.
The I Ching is an ancient classic first written down some 2600 years
ago. It is the inner guide on how an ordinary person can develop its
creative potential to the utmost and open levels of consciousness beyond
the ordinary.
The authors of the I Ching determined that human beings go through 64
energy situations as we make our way through the labyrinth of personal
transformation. The 64 situations cover every stage of evolution from
beginner to higher realization and transcendence.
At this point the study of the I Ching presents us with the complete
scheme of personal evolution and what is needed at each step. How to
manage creatively the interaction of Yin and Yang to further the process
of transformation. How to act with a minimum of effort and obtain the
maximum result. The I Ching is the advisor teaching us how to develop
the art of living in harmony and integrity.
The study of the I Ching begins the gradual process of breaking down
mental barriers and limited beliefs. The mental speed bumps and barricades
which limit evolution. The outcome is an infinite point of view where
everything is possible. This outlook combined with the increased flow
of Creative Energy being developed lays the foundations for the creation
of a universal consciousness.
FIVE ELEMENTS NUTRITION
Nutrition is defined by the I Ching not only in terms of solid food
but also in the quality of thoughts we cultivate in our lives, the emotions
we nurture, the company we choose to keep and the ideas we allow to
seed in our consciousness.
The nourishment we take can help or hinder our progress. Our mind is
like a mirror reflecting what is taking place in the totality of our
organism. The wrong foods can generate states of mind which do not support
what we are doing.
At this level we learn to choose properly, in every sense, through cultivating
discernment and greater self-love.
One of the teachings concerning nutrition in the I Ching is that we
need to be extremely flexible in working with nourishment. It is not
a stage where all of a sudden, we develop rigidity and intolerance.
POINT OF VIEW 3: I CHING GUIDANCE FOR THE FOUR SEASONS
Harmonizing means remaining centered, that in turn means being one
with the Creative Energy. As the seasons progress there are varying
cycles of energy flow facilitating certain practices or making them
more difficult. At this level one begins to work more consciously with
timing, specially right timing.
Right timing is one of the key elements in energy practices. At the
right timing all action is minimal and results are maximized. At the
wrong time we may need to apply a maximum of action in order to obtain
barely passable results or no results at all.
Becoming aware of how energy flows in the year cycle makes the sun,
the moon, the earth, the planets and the stars partners in our creative
efforts. The point of view that we are alone fighting the obstacles
thrown at us by the universe crumbles and is replaced by the expanded
view of harmonizing rather than struggling.
THE EIGHT STAGES FOR DEVELOPING THE FOUNDATIONS
The different stages for the Developing the Foundations generate
the power for working with energy at a deeper level and with an expanded
point of view more versatile than ever before.
The practitioner develops a series of skills which result in an increased
ability to manage life and greater fluency in realizing goals. The energy
for healing imbalances past or present becomes increasingly available.
The ability to manage our energy level and liberate energy from unfinished
cycles begins to eliminate fatigue and weariness. A new level of vitality
emerges and our energy structure becomes stabilized at a higher frequency
of consciousness. One outcome of this level is a greater sense of self-confidence
and personal magnetism.
The issues from our past which need clearing require patient effort.
Patience itself is the result of improved energy flow through the heart
and the rest of the organ family. A minimum of fifteen months of regular
practice is needed to break down the old emotional structure and begin
to build a new one with greater possibilities. Rushing through this
stage is a great mistake made by many practitioners. This results in
a lack of drive and poor results in the intermediate and advanced levels.
At worst the personal becomes discouraged and gives up. Terminating
a cycle this way leaves the person devitalized, perhaps reluctant to
try again with some other discipline, because all the enthusiasm which
was poured into this one has come to nothing.
3 GENERATING BENEFIT: EMPOWERING THE SPIRIT
THE CHI NEI TSANG ABDOMINAL MASSAGE
The abdomen is the crossroads where heavenly energy coming down
passes through on its way to the earth and ascending earth energy finds
its way up to heaven. Blockages in the abdomen affect the totality of
the organism.
The abdomen is a zone where most of the vital organs can be touched
through deep massage. Chi Nei Tsang helps us work with the organs and
the emotions in a most simple way. It is a way to complement and support
all the previous levels. Most of the facets are done using the Six Healing
Sounds.
Chi Nei Tsang can be practiced as an auto-massage for self-maintenance,
and as a way of generating benefit to others.
Personal evolution is not something that is done in isolation with all
the attention focused on oneself. That would result in a situation of
extreme isolation and lack of flow. The I Ching suggests that as a point
of view we adopt that of Mother Nature and generate benefit to all beings
in whatever manner possible.
When energy practice is focused on oneself only Nature will provide
all the energy needed for just one person. Instead, if our goal is generating
benefit to all beings and become active in doing so, then energy will
be provided to benefit all beings we can reach. Chi Nei Tsang is one
step toward enlarging our circle of influence and become, in the words
of the I Ching, ‘The assistant of Heaven’.
Whatever we do succeeds because there is a broad base of support somewhere
lending us the ground to stand firm.
EMPOWERING THE HEALING HANDS. THE BUDDHA PALM SEQUENCE
The ability to give is proportional to our ability to receive. In
the Chi Nei Tsang massage the hands are our main physical instrument.
The hands are the transmission point where the energy flowing through
the structure contacts others.
The Buddha Palm sequence is a series of movement made with the arms
in coordination with the structure for increasing energy flow through
the hands. As a self-practice some of the movements help clear and empower
the different energy points of the Microcosmic Orbit. Some of the arm
and finger positions stretch the muscle-tendon meridians connected to
the toes and the earth. The result is that we are able to provide a
conduit of Creative Energy into another being, human, animal or plant.
The Buddha Palm sequence can be combined with Bone Breathing, the Microcosmic
Orbit, the Six Healing Sounds, the alignment of the Embracing the Tree,
the centered calmness of the Fusion I and the altruistic point of view
of the I Ching.
MAINTAINING ENERGY INTEGRITY: PSYCHIC PROTECTION
One very common problem encountered in energy work is lack of energy
integrity due to poorly defined personal boundaries. This problem translates
as being very easily affected by negative energies, extreme sensitivity
to people and places, difficulty protecting personal property, being
easily overpowered by strong personalities, going along with situations
we do not agree and so on. All of these factors are a sign that the
energy system and specifically the key energy points along the Microcosmic
Orbit are lacking their proper frequency or are blocked. As a result
it is very difficult for the organism to maintain energy integrity.
Buried emotions may generate the view point that we are victims of circumstances
and ‘unlucky’. Structurally the person may lack proper connection
with the energies of heaven and earth and as a result are ‘undercharged’
way below their potential.
The foundation for remedying these problem is connecting with the earth
as a daily practice. Working the meridian system more intensely through
the Microcosmic Orbit. Start clearing the emotional load and promote
better flow through the Six Healing Sounds and the Fusion I. Expanding
the personality by shifting the attention from being exclusively focused
on themselves and generating a way of truly helping others.
If boundaries are forced through magical protective means and selfish
methods the result is an increased sense of isolation and paranoia which
furthers blocks the flow of the Creative Energy through the organism.
The ability to lovingly maintain our energy integrity translates as
respect for the boundaries of others and a sense of being at ease anywhere
and with anyone.
MANTRA. THE OCEAN OF CREATIVE VIBRATIONS AND ROOT SOUNDS
All energy work can be summarized in one word: sound. The process of manifesting physical and subtle reality begins with an idea which is expressed as root sounds and creative vibrations.
All the techniques thus far learned require to be initiated through some activity of the ego consciousness. Ego activity is polarized and never in harmony. Harmony means balance of yin and yang so that Creative Energy is activated. The greater the activities of the ego the greater the degree of mental restlessness and mental chatter.
Mantra practice, or the repetition of root sounds, has the ability to silence the activities of the ego, silence instantly mental chatter, unify the energy system into a set of creative vibrations, cut through negative states of mind, put the breath into a rhythmic pattern, stabilize the consciousness, refresh the stressed nervous system in a short time and connect the energy system to a higher frequency vibration. All of this is accomplished with a minimum of effort and a minimum of ego consciousness throughout the practice.
The most powerful Mantras utilize root sounds, not ordinary language or words. Root sounds are universal sounds which constitute the vibrations of particular processes. These root sounds were discovered in the most ancient past by practitioners at the highest level of awareness.
There are root sounds for attracting, repelling, removing obstacles, healing illness, generating compassion energy and so on. The list is as vast as the Creation because every living being and every energy process is a particular set of vibrations unique to that process.
Vibration is also a connecting link between dimensions. All energy is vibration. As one reaches the limits of physical consciousness, mantra practice begins to lay the interdimensional bridges for ‘Crossing the Great Water’ as the I Ching puts it.
Mantra practice introduces the very important factor of numerical rhythm in energy work. The I Ching calls rhythms ‘helpers’ because they are able to take over energy processes and carry them out without the intervention of the ego. When a rhythm is active we don’t have to do anything and in the process become tireless because Creative Energy is flowing with a minimum of effort.
Of all energy practices Mantra has the distinction of being the most versatile because it can be carried out internally in the midst of any situation or emotional state.
FENG SHUI AND THE ENERGY INTEGRITY OF OUR ENVIRONMENT
The key concept for efficient energy work in the I Ching is being
at the right time at the right place, facing the right direction, generating
the right feelings and doing the right things.
Energetically there is only one place where everything can be accomplished
and that is the center. The center is not a physical space but is rather
an energy place in the subtle anatomy of living beings where the energies
of heaven and earth interact as one. In the human body this is the central
channel or ‘cauldron’.
Our homes and the space surrounding it are the physical cauldron where
the energies of yin and yang interact through the power of our intention
and perseverance. The home as a living organism has also a meridian
system equivalent to that found in the human body.
The purpose of this level of internal Feng Shui is generating the auspicious
conditions for optimizing potential by establishing a series of meridians
and energy patterns in the living space and the land around it. It is
energetically naïve to believe that mirrors, bells and aquariums
with fishes of the right color are able to optimize our human potential.
That is the point of view which says that our well-being depends on
having the right objects in the right place regardless of our emotional
state and the beliefs we hold.
This level of Feng Shui is not only for generating personal benefit
because we are not separate from the environment we live. Through energy
work coupled with strong intention and a good relationship with the
Creative Energy it is possible to heal the earth in the places where
it has been wounded through selfish action.
LEADING SMALL PRACTICE GROUPS ON THE BASIC PRACTICES
The I Ching recommends that one third of the way down our path of
development we begin to lead groups in the basic practices for generating
harmony. This is done not only for the benefit of others but also as
a step for broadening our field of activity and developing a vaster
perspective in what we are doing.
Having to present the practices we have been doing for sometime to others
forces us to clarify what is essential from what is not. Questions asked
by the students force us to re-examine more deeply problems and situations
we may not have encountered by ourselves.
The positive changes experienced by the people we teach will deepen
our basic trust in what we are doing and the power of the practice lineage
we are part of.
The practitioners who never develop this stage remain in a kind of isolation
which makes them potentially vulnerable to self-doubt and distrust in
what they are doing. At worst one is continually ‘shopping around’
for something better or just different. This is because we are not truly
grounded in what we are doing.
COMMUNICATING EXPERIENCE THROUGH THE SACRED ARTS
The experiences with the Creative Energy and its impact in our lives
can be expressed through painting, sculpture, architecture, music, poetry,
writing, story-telling, dance, cooking or whatever we are good at. This
is the foundation of the Sacred Arts in all cultures of the world.
The ability to communicate experiences in the path toward higher consciousness
is another way that we generate benefit through teaching. Often all
that remains of a great civilization of the past are just a few temple
walls and a few sculptures testament to the spiritual attainment of
that culture. Notice that the Sacred Arts are the most abundant remains
from ancient cultures we have in our museums.
Through the Sacred Arts we give expression to our finest experiences
in order to transmit the essence of such experience directly into the
unconscious of the receptive. It is a way of nourishing the tradition
that has brought us thus far and inspiring others to develop their excellence.
It is also a way of expressing Creative Energy and its centering power.
When the energy of spirit is strong everything said or done is a form
of Sacred Art.
4 DEVELOPING THE POTENTIAL OF THE MERIDIAN SYSTEM
FUSION II. EMPOWERING THE POSITIVE EMOTIONS
In the Fusion I we work clearing the past, finishing cycles and
learning to transform negative emotional states into pure vitality.
All the other practices lead us to a state of greater efficiency and
sustained balance. With these conditions a positive emotional state
begins to develop with greater frequency and last for longer periods
of time.
The positive emotions arise when the organism is vibrating at higher
frequencies than usual. Negative states manifest when the energy flow
is taking place with difficulty and the organism is energetically fragmented.
In the Fusion II we nurture the positive emotions arising from each
organ. We consciously blend this variety of high frequencies into one
which is the energy of pure compassion. We then circulate this high
frequency through the meridian system in order to raise the vibratory
level of the entire energy system. At first these positive states are
experienced for a limited time and then gradually we resonate back to
our ordinary state of consciousness. However with regular practice the
energy system begins to change and eventually reintegrates itself at
the higher frequency level of the practice. This results in a shift
in consciousness and a qualitative change in our relationship with others,
ourselves, the planet and all other beings, as well as a new level of
physical, emotional and mental health.
The energy of compassion is utilized to raise the frequency of the central
channel and the supporting channels around it. This level of work lays
the foundations for the right alchemical ingredient in the higher practices
of Fire and Water.
The Fusion II gives us the ability to generate extraordinary energies
in order to bring about extraordinary results. A common mistake for
those who rush through the Fusion I and the basic practices is that
they approach the higher alchemy with ordinary energy hoping to obtain
extraordinary results. Ordinary energy is only capable of producing
ordinary results. Higher alchemy requires extraordinary ingredients
of exceptional quality and integrity.
FUSION III. INTEGRATING THE MERIDIAN SYSTEM AT HIGHER
FREQUENCIES
The higher frequencies of compassion and sustained positive states
is utilized at this level to harmonize the entire meridian system. In
ordinary circumstances the central channel is the only meridian where
yin and yang interact generating Creative Energy. The rest of the meridian
system is polarized as either yin or yang. In the Fusion III Creative
Energy is circulated through the whole meridian system rapidly raising
the frequency of the whole system.
The meridian system and the life force are different names for the same
thing which is Consciousness. Raising the frequency of the meridian
system means raising the level of consciousness above the plateau of
ordinary states.
This level brings the practitioner to very limits of the yang practices
where personal effort and personal initiative are the driving force
in practice. The Creation doesn’t take place with yang energy only.
There is the yin or receptive. Beyond the Fusion III begins the stage
of receptivity where our previous actions begin to generate a reaction
from the universe. This is the stage called ‘The Yin Practice’.
ESOTERIC ANATOMY
The central channel is the meridian in charge of maintaining the consciousness anchored in the physical dimension when we are awake and in projecting the consciousness beyond the physcial during sleep and at the moment of death.
Our level of consciousness is expressed through seven main energy centers along the path of the Microcosmic Orbit. These are what the Hindus and Buddhist call the Chakras.
In ordinary states our consciousness fluctuates from one Chakra to another like a leaf tossed by the wind. One of challenges in the Fusion 1 is to develop steadiness of mind and the power to remain concentrated on the cauldron without mental distractions or drowsiness. We only manage to develop steadiness of mind when the consciousness operates from the central channel and is no longer drifting from chakra to chakra.
In this level we become acquainted with the properties of each energy center and the states of consciousness they generate. The process of evolution is a journey from the consciousness of the lowest energy centers by the perineum and the sexual palaces up toward the heavenly realms of the crystal room in the mideyebrow and crown centers.
The meridian system is intimately connected with the chakras and is primarily known through its medical use in acupuncture. However the meridian system, like the I Ching, has an inner spiritual aspect which is unknown to the average medical practitioner. A clue to this inner system is in the traditional ancient names given to the acupuncture points.
In the Esoteric Anatomy we explore the energy patterns in the meridian system used for raising consciousness and open human potential beyond the state of ordinary awareness.
5 TRANSCENDENCE PRACTICES
DREAM PRACTICE. WORKING THE INTENTION THROUGH THE SUBTLE
BODY
Every time we fall asleep a process of overwhelming importance takes
place. Our consciousness which is focused on the physical body during
waking hours, disconnects and becomes fully active through the subtle
body. The degree of opportunity offered by this shift is beyond the
scope of our imagination.
As children from the moment we start learning to walk we begin a long
process of manifesting the intention through the physical body. Through
all the years of schooling and growing self discipline we keep refining
the ability to manifest intent in connection with the physical body.
In the Dream Practice we extent this process into the realm of the subtle
body and the dimensions outside of time and space. The reason for doing
this is transcendence of consciousness.
The physical body is limited by time and space, and regardless of the
good care we take, it dies at some point. Consciousness is outside the
limitations of time or space and if cultivated through energy disciplines
is capable of transcending the death of the physical body and continue
operating through the subtle body.
The main purpose of the Dream Practice is developing the ability to
operate fully conscious outside time and space through the subtle body.
This training gives coherence to the subtle body and gradually makes
intent and realization an instant reality.
The Dream Practice gradually transcends the fear of the unknown at the
moment of death. Instead a seamless continuity of consciousness is experienced
between the physical and the subtle dimensions.
THE MARRIAGE OF FIRE AND WATER. DEVELOPING CREATIVE
ENERGY
The process of transformation and the deepest level takes place
thanks to the Creative Energy. As learned in the earlier levels, Creative
Energy arises only when there is harmonious interaction of Yin and Yang
polarities. The place where this interaction takes place is the central
channel of the meridian system. This channel we learn in the Fusion
1 is named ‘The Cauldron’.
The central channel is not only The Cauldron of Creative Energy. The
frequency at which it operates determines our level of consciousness
and the scope of our personal power and the ability to project it into
the world.
In order to maintain our consciousness operating in the physical dimension,
with a reasonable degree of focus and awareness, the central channel
has to operate within a limited range of frequencies. However that range
is does not tap the complete energy potential of the central channel.
The key purpose of all the yoga practices in all the great systems of
the world is raising the energy potential of the central channel and
expand the range of frequencies it is capable of operating.
All the work done in the preceding levels, specially the work with the
negative emotions in Fusion I, creates the conditions for expanding
the frequency of the central channel. The work multiplying the positive
emotions in Fusion II and III stabilizes high frequencies in the entire
energy system raising further the frequency of the central channel.
The main purpose of the Marriage of Fire and Water practices is opening
the complete potential of the central channel. This is done in a three
step process called ‘Opening the Three Cauldrons’.
The first cauldron refers to the level of ordinary consciousness we
start with in practice. The focus of the practices is the central channel
at the level of the navel area. As energy frequencies are raised and
become stabilized-not just come and go, the level of consciousness is
raised to the level of the second cauldron at the heart center. This
is the level where the energies of love expand beyond our limited self
to embrace all creation and all beings. This is not a mechanical process
that can be ‘tricked’ by some energy manipulation. It is an
expansion of perspective brought about by operating consciously at a
higher level. The opening of the third cauldron takes place in the center
of the brain in what is called ‘The Crystal Chamber’. The
outcome of raising consciousness to operate from this center generates
union with all creation and spontaneously projects the consciousness
beyond the physical plane. This stage is also named ‘Union with
the Tao’.
A consciousness raised to the universal stage is able to transcend the
physical plane without attachments or unfulfilled desires. The work
on the physical plane is completed.
POINT OF VIEW 4: I CHING WISDOM GUIDANCE FOR THE HIGHER
PRACTICES
It would be naïve to believe that the Marriage of Fire and
Water practices could be successfully carried out through sheer improvisation
and good luck. The I Ching was specifically created to provide timely
counsel on the different stages of the practice. More than half of the
book is devoted to the Fire and Water practices.
This level is for clarifying the use of Yang and Yin perseverance in
the Fire and Water stage.
STELLAR PRACTICE I: THE CIRCUMPOLAR STARS
Together with sound energy manifests as light. It could be said that
energy is light-vibration. In our subtle anatomy the gland system functions
as the switch regulating energy flow between the subtle dimensions and
the physical body. The increase in frequency spoken in the Water and
Fire practices is made possible through the opening of potential of
the gland system.
The master glands regulating energy flow from the universe down to the
physical dimension are located in the Crystal Chamber in the center
of the brain. They are the pineal and the pituitary glands. Both glands
work with energy as light-vibration.
The main purpose of the Stellar Practice is opening the potential of
the master glands. This is done through consciously connecting with
the subtle light of specific stars.
The circumpolar stars are the group of star-beings aligned with the
central channel-axis of the Earth. All beings operating through the
physical dimension are endowed with a central channel. The Earth-being
is not an exception. All beings on the Earth are in resonance with the
central channel of the Earth.
The Pole Star and the stars of the Big Dipper are the focus of the first
level of Stellar Practice because of their connection with the central
channel and the level of consciousness they represent. In this practice
one consciously establishes the inner stars as a link to the visible
outer ones. One of the insights of all the great practitioners of the
past is that whatever is outside is also within. Sometimes this stage
is named ‘Bringing Heaven to Earth’.
The relationship developed with the Pole Star and the Dipper becomes
increasingly important in the Transcendence Practice stage. The Pole
Star is the interdimensional portal through which the consciousness
is projected beyond the grip of the physical dimension. This is not
a process of ‘going’ somewhere but of ‘tuning’ to
the frequency of a particular dimension. One is capable of doing that
because there are matching stable high frequencies developed in the
personal energy system.
In the Stellar Practices greater importance is given to the stars over
the planets. As self-illuminated beings the stars are in stages of consciousness
where the inner light has been developed to the degree that they now
generate benefit to all beings. This is the life-giving function of
the Sun-being, the star closest to us. By contrast, the planets are
still at the level of consciousness where the inner light has to be
developed. Like human beings, they are also on the way to illumination.
PREPARING FOR TRANSCENDENCE. THE PILGRIMAGE PRACTICES
The Pilgrimage Practices are carried out at the end of a long training
to mark a transition from one state into another and to put to the test
everything which has been learned and integrated. This stage is often
misunderstood and just wandering from sacred place to place taking a
break from ordinary routines. Nothing could be further from reality.
The Pilgrimage Practices start with finishing in a graceful way all
the unfinished situations in our lives. One pays all debts, clears misunderstandings
with family and friends, lets go of all attachments to property, relationships,
places and self. One prepares for death and leaves all affairs in order
before setting out on the journey. The pilgrimage begins when all the
cords of attachment have been cut forever.
The goal of the Pilgrimage Practice is freeing all energy caught in
cycles and experience fully conscious ultimate freedom from limitations.
An important aspect of freeing energy is freeing oneself from the fear
of death and dying. The pilgrim makes the decision to go on the journey
even if it means dying in the process. This is a decision that we support
with our whole being. We stand by our goals and beliefs with our whole
being. The pilgrim before setting out cuts the cords of death as a limiting
factor and experiences space as limitless and blissful.
The Pilgrimage Practice is a preparation for death. A preparation for
letting go of the familiar and venturing into the unknown regardless
of the consequences. It is the practice for going from a familiar structure
into no structure at all. With this perspective it can be said that
Pilgrimage Practice is the most difficult and demanding of all the stages
of energy work. It is not a holiday vacation.
STABILIZING THE MOUNTAIN. SILENT RETREAT
One of the ways that the Creative Energy makes itself known when
it is fully active is through silence combined clear awareness. It is
fairly easy during a good meditation session to tune to a high frequency
of Creative Energy that results in deep inner silence. The process of
stabilizing the central channel at increasingly higher frequencies manifests
as inner silence sometimes called ‘The Void’.
The purpose of Silent Retreat is for stabilizing higher frequencies
and strengthening the cauldron being developed.
Silent Retreat generates powerful waves of bliss and clarity. The feeling
of separation between me and the rest of the universe melt away and
inner and outer become one in a continuum of energy of a most subtle
nature.
ENRICHING THE ANCESTRAL LINEAGE. TEACHING OTHERS HOW
TO DO IT
Sharing one’s insights into practice, transmitting the waves
of joy and benefit received through the infinite wisdom passed down
by the ancestors of the practice. Imbuing others with our enthusiasm
and appreciation for having encountered the practices is something that
can only be done when there is a deep ocean of experience working with
the energy disciplines.
Teaching is more than passing techniques and information in a mechanical
way. A video or a book can do a more thorough job at that. Teaching
has to do with the transmission of experience and the state of consciousness
realized through the practices.
In the Taoist tradition teaching was done by those already on the stages
of transcendence with a complete view of the process and lots of personal
experience on the terrain of the path.
Teaching is not a job, it is the stage where one ensures the continuity
of the illustrious lineage of the teachings for future generations.
It is the stage where through deep experience one refines and makes
the teachings accessible to the present generation under the present
conditions. It is an updating of the stages.
This stage carries the greatest responsibility. If the teacher, in the
words of the I Ching, ‘gets his tail wet’ with power, greed,
desire to manipulate others and direct the teachings for personal gain,
then all is lost and the person stands truly alone in the most desolate
place of the creation. That place is the space where the ancestors have
withdrawn their support and guidance. The only choice open will be to
improvise
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