Taoism
Taoism is a name, for a way of being not a religion (see
the quote opposite).
It is thought to originate from the actions and writings (under duress)
of Lao Tzu.
The classic Taoist text the "Tao Te Ching" written by
Lao Tzu, sometime between 6 BC and 3 BC, is poetic in style
but sublimely concise, containing many layers of detailed
insight. Lao Tzus' later work, the " Hua Hua Ching", contains
more specific information on energetic interactions. (see reading list
for details).
Lao
Tzu realised that everything was connected, the planets, the elements
and all the living things. He deduced that there were common
elemental forces and attributes that link everything in the
cosmos.
By connecting to these forces through Meditation and Taoist practices (such as Qi Gong, Tai Qi Chuan and
Internal Alchemy) one is able to increase physical and
subtle energy levels and build a strong platform for spiritual
development. Simplistically it is like connecting the positive (heaven) and negative (earth) electric leads to
give power.
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"The way that can be
spoken of
is not the constant way.
The name that can be
named
is not the constant name.
The nameless was the
beginning
of heaven and earth.
The named was the
mother
of the myriad creatures."
Lao Tzu. Tao Te Ching. |
Absorption
The diagram illustrates the main subtle forces that
effect us. We absorb these forces naturally to sustain life.
Heaven energy. Experienced as a
warm energy spiralling down from the heavens. It is the
effect of planetary movement upon us and is Yang in quality.
Cosmic Particle Dust (star dust). Primarily absorbed through a spot in the middle of the forehead (
third eye chakra). Contains unlimited information. NB. Star dust makes up a layer on the skin, the information component is absorbed through the third eye.
Earth Force. Experienced as a cool energy spiralling up from the earth. The healing
quality comes from the special relationship between the earth and the
moon. Yin in quality.
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The
Microcosmic Orbit
With practice, one can develop the circulation of Qi
around the Microcosmic Orbit to great personal benefit. The greater the
circulation the more easily external energy is drawn into the cycle and
the stronger one becomes.
I do suggest that you should clear your channels (correct vertical structural alignment)
sufficiently to be able to fully feel the energies before circulating.
You will know when.
There are many sources of information available which will give you
instruction on the practice of circulating internal Qi.
I would recommend you look at the work of Mantak Chia (see reading list) as he provide perhaps the
most comprehensive explanations of Chinese Metaphysics and Taoist
practices (Alchemy, Qi Gong) available in English.
(Connecting
the two channels is achieved by pressing the tongue to the top of the
palate and pulling up the anus).
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Comment
Feng Shui practice considers the
way that humans are effected by the subtle forces, it can help to
improve ones relationship with the environment.
NB. for anyone learning
about Feng Shui, the realization that we connect to the source just by
being aware that it is there. i.e..If we look to the stars , we are
connected. If we look to the stars with awareness we are conscious. It
is easy in modern urban life to lose perspective of the
greater picture. If you live in a small flat in a large city it is not
that easy to remember that there is earth below you, stars above, and
creatures and plants .
Using and/or the study of Feng Shui is a very good way to reconnect and
be reminded of the cycle of things.
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painting by Val Llewellyn.
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