(Espanol) (Deutsch)

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

[Artikelübersicht]