Qi ( energy )
|
|
|
Qi is a generic name, it does not describe one concept
of energy, there are many different
types, from the coarse (physical things, atmosphere) to the very subtle (beyond
the immaterial). In Chinese Qi means invisible
or the indication of something unknown. |
 |
Taoism
Taoism is not a formalised religion, this goes against its essence
(see the quote opposite).
The classic Taoist text the "Tao
Te Ching" written by Lao Tzu sometime between 6 BC and 3 BC
is poetic in style but contains 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).
The Taoists realised that everything was connected,
the planets, the elements and all the living things.
They 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. - Grounding and rootedness
to the earth is the launch pad to the spiritual.
- The more grounded we
become the subtler the energies we experience.
- The subtler the energies
we absorb, the stronger we become. Spiritual
development is a natural outcome. Nothing is
forced because we have a firm foundation.
|
"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 spiraling
down from the heavens. It is the effect of planetary
movement upon us and is Yang in quality.
Cosmic Particle Dust.
Primarily absorbed through a spot in the middle of the forehead
( third eye chakra);.
Contains unlimited information.
Earth Force.
Experienced as a cool energy spiraling up
from the earth. The healing quality comes from the
special relationship between the earth and the moon.
Yin in quality. |
|
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.
- Governor channel runs
up the middle of the back.
- Functional channel
runs down the chest.
(Connecting the two channels
is achieved by pressing the tongue to the top of
the palate and pulling up the anus).
|
 |
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. ie.If we look to the
stars , we are connected. If we look to the stars
with awareness we are conscious. It is all to
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.
Step outside the conventional
mind-set. |
painting by Val Llewellyn.
|
| Introduction Qi
(energy) Yin
& Yang 5
Elements 8
Directions | top of page |