Affinity & The Way of the True Teacher ~ Sheng Ren Wu Wei Shifu (圣人 無為 師傅)

 

The Sheng Ren Wu Wei Shifu ( 圣人 無為 師傅) refers to the following: 

 

Sheng Ren ( 圣人): The one that follows the saintly way; is one who embodies the path & lives, breaths its wisdom.

Wu Wei ( 無為): Non impulsive actions, commonly referred as "empty action". The life code of the wise ones in which they follow ~ leading without pushing, doing without striving, living daily with what seems no agenda/goals or end in mind.

Shifu ( 師傅): A skillful Master of the tradition of their art they had embarked on many years in the making. A true Shifu is a longtime student before they are chosen for path of the skillful teacher.       

The teachers of the way generally don't advertise themselves, they will seem as a simple non de-script people. The Sheng Ren of "Tao & Buddhist Ways" look indifferently at fame, wealth, and personal glory. In many ways its against their code to recompense for teaching of Healing Meditation and Arts. They will generally accept donation system of "Dana"(pronounced "Donna) the way of generosity and allow the receiver to decide what it is worth to them and their personal situation. Recompense although is never demanded. This is how it always has been, but sometimes not followed by people of hubris and greed. 

For the teacher and the student of the way, there are almost Eight Billion humans (Fall 2020), of planet Earth! How many are we destined to meet? The true teachers you mentor under and students you teach is for sure a predestined affinity arranged by the Tao. If the teacher & students learn the transmitted traditions well, and utilize it for the better of humanity, people will become happier and more peaceful people, in this way the world can become a better balanced existence at some level.

 

GWA

 

Stay at Home & Relax; Be Safe Think of Others

So today we had protesters up in Lansing today protesting the capital. These selfish few should of been arrested and fined. If no one follows the stay at home rule/loose law we will just go on and on with this lock-down. The cases are still racking up look at the last 7 days:

4/9: 21,054
4/10: 22,783 
4/11: 23,993
4/12: 24,638
4/13: 25, 635
4/14:27,001
4/15:28,059

The good news is the cases are appearing not to stack up so steep. A doctor I know explained it like this each new time you venture out and mingle with people, you are resting the contamination period of 14-21 each time. Stay out of harms way the virus is real, don't be selfish and impose youre possible infected body unto other people. Where a mask and protect the hands as well. Follow the guidelines.        

Single Form Linked Chi Flow Patterns

Free Video for Practice & Learning:

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OVoF1AzPGA&feature=youtu.be

The Set Contained is this video is based of Traditional Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan. It uses selections from Tai Chi and is repeated several times. It is a very good set & if you use the Natural Qigong Breathing Method as described below it is perfect for the times we live in.

Natural Qigong Breathing practice helps to move congested energy and allow the body to get rid of it by creating different internal vibrations and pressures within different parts of the body through the inhaling and exhaling of air. In other words, when you perform the exercises and do the respiration, we are giving the internal organs a good massage to expel stale energy aka life qi.

The key is inhaling through the nose when possible and exhaling softly through the mouth. This breathing method is not described on the tape; so this is a added feature. So here is the breathing directions: Arm/body Movements that rise: inhale Arm/body Movements that descend: exhale Arm/body movements that go left: inhale Arm/body movements that go right exhale Arm/body movements that go backwards: inhale Arm/body movements that go forward: exhale All movements should be softly strung together likened to be moving underwater.

Everything is done calmly and patiently. Follow all parts of the tape and eventually get away from the tape and practice with music you like and try to build each part in repetitions of 3: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18. If you are sick with covid19 try the first three exercise in groups of three.

This is a very easy set . Before the movement practice try chair style qigong meditation (non conceptual) just relax and focus on interior peace.

*At the end of the set there is a part known as La Chi - emit chi for yourself use everyday breathing; then later switch to natural qigong breathing.

Gary W. Abersold

Sterling Heights Michigan - Qigong Classes with Gary W. Abersold

Late Summer - Autumn Qigong Classes

 with

 Gary W. Abersold

Introduction: There are new Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow Classes being held in Sterling Heights Michigan. By end of September I will have three teachers Certified whom after a 1 1/2 years practice and learning with me can effectively begin to teach the Energy Release, Chi Cultivation and beginner Flow Forms. So until then I am the only one that can properly teach this tradition. My goal is to be able to offer this abroad in Health Clubs, Community Centres, Gilda's Club, Youth Homes, people that are incarcerated, Military personal and Veterans. It's easy to learn and I have a vast amount of resource material for the serious student, that comes with the practice.    

    This is a perfect practice for anyone looking to truly have a Qigong routine that delivers and one can count on, each and every day. There are many practices that I have taught over the last 21 years of teaching; the Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow System is a genuine approach for beginners or experienced practitioners looking for something different. The brilliance of the tradition is that it is very tangible, new students feel their energy very quickly. This is taught in China and abroad even in Wutang Taoist Temples, Groups. A friend of mine that is a Monk teaches his version of it to all his personal disciples as a base for their Tai Chi Chuan understanding.              

Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow (太極氣流): Syncretic System of Tai Chi Chuan, and Healing Qigong practice, which has became very popular, over the past 40 years in China. Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow is not "Tai Chi Chuan" (Martial Art Tai Chi) , it is a healing form of Tai Chi, emphasizing Chi Flow - "life force energy". It is the best practice for anyone looking for health and wellness; and will prepare one better for traditional Tai Chi Chuan Systems as well. It's the Tai Chi training that almost no community centre class will ever offer, that are all so needed .

Tai Chi ~ Chi Flow has been scientifically tested and medically proven. The first entry level practice is designed to improve the general health and well-being of the practitioner. The gentle flow patterns and stretching movements improve circulation and digestion. The chest exercises and controlled breathing are good for lung conditions and asthma. And the overall effect of the exercise is to reduce mental stress and physical tension carried in the muscles of the body. What can it do for you:

• Improves health

• Increases energy, agility and flexibility

• Loosens and strengthens joints and muscles

• Normalizes energy congestion

• Rejuvenates body, breath, energy, mind and spirits

• Dissolves stress away

• Develops concentration

• Balances emotions

This Tradition is very effective and easy to learn. It is practiced throughout Asia, and is considered a national health exercise in Malaysia and Indonesia. Come learn about this unique system and my Master Teacher's related healing modalities. A DVD and two Audio Cd's are provided for home learning, away from class. For more information email us at qigonghealingcentre@gmail.com

GWA

Expansion: New Locations for Qigong Classes

Participation in Life is Key - To Move Forward

Participation in life is key; Don't become the "would have, should have or could have person" one day in the rocking chair.  The important thing to do in learning and progressing in Qigong is getting practical experience. You cannot cultivate your Chi from reading a book, surfing the web or watching a video. It takes real practical experience; this is a big beginner tip. There are many benefits from being in a Qigong group such as learning faster, meeting like minded people who are into Qigong and hey how about mastering it! If you are reading this aren't you sick of being on the sidelines; get out of the drought and get your chi filled and activated.   

 It will take much effort and follow through in classes to begin to penetrate through the mystery of it all.  If you want more you have to participate for it. I have invested much personal effort in teaching various students on Qigong since 1994 and many now are certified in well rounded levels of qigong. one cannot go wrong with the teachers I have certified, they are all different and unique.

The following link can begin to get you started locally in Southeastern Michigan areas. Express your inner will and begin to reap the benefits from a timeless tradition that will add much quality and value to your personal and family life:

      http://www.qigonghealingcenter.com/certified-teachers

On Personal Qigong Practice

Insights Along the Way

Today's journal entry covers only three topics briefly:  1. Personal Practice 2. The age of everything 3.Where to begin. I get lot's of emails from students and even written letters asking about these three topics. So lately it seems that many students are not practicing as regular as they should; many are too wrapped up with social media and lurking around online and getting little to no results.  Through feedback many don't even now where or how to begin the search. To the reader hope you find this useful; but take it with a grain of salt. I began in a non technology driven era, my views are real experiences = real results. ~GWA       

Daily Personal Qigong Practice

The purpose "Personal Qigong Practice" is to build and maintain a solid foundation. Foundation practice's ensures our body/mind to grow and also to keep what we been practicing. Having a strong Qigong practice always ensures our body to be able to recover from illness, imbalance or depleted energy states.  It also assist you to connect more deeply with your personal spiritual endeavors. When we engage to keep a strong tradition alive, we not only be maximize our self-healing ability, we are more effective if we do self energy healing treatments on ourselves and others. It also helps your daily living; how you relate to others around you, and your career. Qigong self practice makes gives you "moxy" for our busy life. 

The Age of Everything Available

Technology is kinda like Pandora's box for the dabbler in energy healing practices and almost anything else for that matter. I find more and more people distracted by not knowing what to do. This is not because lack of access; the internet has created a whirlwind of confusion. Everyone today has a book, video something to sell/peddle. In many cases much has been misappropriated from a lineage/teacher as well. My advice is to stick with one tradition -one mentor; or you will be constantly searching and never going anywhere. 

The reason this is important is because it takes several years to refine any one method/approach. Loyalty to a system and a mentor goes a long way. If you engage with a tradition and you go in 100 % and get close with the students and teacher you will find a deeper interest will be taken in you. Qigong mentors are students as well; and we know what it takes to do Qigong properly. In many cases when a teacher sees that a student is a dabbler they will clam up and not be able to guide you deeper. The mistake falls on you; is it so hard to do one thing 100% ? 

Real experiences up close and personal is what to look for. Study with a teacher, have a friendship practice group. This will go a long ways in what you have a interest in. Practicing with friends is key because more than one person will be there doing the same thing. If you have forgotten something most likely someone else remembers it. Having practicing/training buddies is key in the informal practice sessions. Life is short; time clicks by constantly. Invest in real life experiences, you will be glad you did in the future.

Where to Begin?

In your community it is best to do good ole fashion, get in your car and venture out and mingle. When I began in 1981, it was through word of mouth or a lead from friends etc. The same holds true today, the good teachers who can actually teach are often off the grid. They might have a website but their interaction online will be small at best. It might be frustrating in the beginning to find someone. If you stick to it doors will open and you will find what you are looking for. Look for the teachers that run ongoing classes, this is important for learning how to practice.Weekly interaction is important to give and receive feedback. The local group is the foundation to your path, without it will be real hard to keep up in early stages.

GWA       

Return to Balance

Embrace Receptivity & Balance

Today's web journal entry is be one of "Receptivity & Balance". The easy lesson here is avoid people, places or things that create emotional garbage; less said is always best. Be active on the path you plow and avoid the anger, rage, negative comment's and opinions. 
 
As many know hopefully; or obviously not..opinions on politics always begins arguments. Even if you and the person you're speaking with might have similar views. You will lose friends, reduce opportunity's by emotional outburst airing what you might regret once you cool off.

Its a trend now for people to foolishly blast their emotions for all to see. But really it does nothing but hurt yourself. Not everyone has the same opinion, and this goes for many different areas such as Money, Religion, Diets and many other hot topics. Politics in America seems to always get many riled up.

My parents and grandparents as well raised me that one's particular views are your particular views, no one can change that, but discussing them in public when you know that most likely everyone around you has a different opinion will result in tension, and that, is almost guaranteed to polarize or fire people up; its also very rude, we have enough tensions in the world.

Much can be said about one's spiritual evolution on how they carry themselves in public. Picking sides or "fueling the fire" on the internet will do nothing to make one healthier, happier or enjoying the current moment right here and now.

Find the happiness in your own spiritual enclave community's, and focus on gratitude; for all you have and where you are going in your personal life. Dissolve the attachment of the "Emotional Mud" of mainstream Society, it does not matter in your life. Be like the Wind and Soar high and  invoke your ancestors spirits for proper guidance. You will be much happier; forget the problems of the mainstream world and the confusion of the world will forget you. :)

GWA

September 27 2015 - October 27 2015 Powerful Portal & Moon Cultivation

Full Moon Cultivation

Today (September 27th, 2015) marks the "Full Moon"; which is now closest to Earth. We will all feel a strong magnetic pull actually for the next 30 days until October 27, 2015.  Ubiquitous in East Asian Traditions, millions practice the moon tradition each and every month. Although the next 30 days so are a great portal for Healing Treatments, Personal healing, and igniting change in ones life. This coincides with the nature of the energy of Year of the Ram as well. A time period to clean house, improve and move forward for a better quality of life.

Modern Astronomers call this a "Super Moon"; and  have geared up to witness this rare phenomenon, as a lunar eclipse. A super-moon occurs when the Moon is in the closest part of its orbit to Earth, meaning it appears larger in the sky. The eclipse - expected to make the Moon appear red in color - will be visible in North America, South America, West Africa and western Europe.

I read that Nasa claims a super-moon last coincided with a lunar eclipse in 1982 and is not expected to again until 2033. But the definition of a super-moon is debated among astronomers. Sky watchers in the western half of North America, the rest of Europe and Africa, the Middle East and South Asia will see a partial eclipse. From the UK, observers will see the Moon pass through the Earth's shadow in the early hours of Monday morning. In North and South America the eclipse will be seen on Sunday evening.

The most basic element of this practice is follow naturalness and position the body so the entire front of the body and palms align to the moon. This can be done in a seated or standing position.  If possible practice around trees water and away from distraction, technology.

GWA

Seven Meanings of Tao?

Tao (道) is a term with many interpretations and possible meanings; there is no shortage for commentary's on it! Early on in my learning, I wrote a small article on Tao and gave it to my first teacher. He came back with "you failed double FF"; (ouch)..he said its impossible to define and too many words. Rewrite it and eliminate so many words. Having a bruised ego I asked which words should I eliminate (lol)?  

This whole exchange taught me a important lesson of imagery and symbolic meanings in Traditions of Tao. The paper finally came down to "Tao"=trick question; impossible to define. The lesson was seek in the Lao Tsu to full-fill youre quest for what Tao is.

 Lao Tsu defines what Tao is in his teachings in the Tao Teh Ching. In the Tao Teh Ching Chapters: 1,51,40,25,14,21,25. It also brings forth a concept of "The Way of Heaven". Over the next several weeks we will go through this topic "Tao".

Five Interpretations on Chapter 1 on tao:

 道可道，非常道。

 Tao ke tao, fei chang tao 。

  

• The tao which one can explain is not the unchanging tao*
• The tao that can be told is not the universal tao*
• The tao that can be told is not the absolute tao*
• The tao that can be spoken of is not the ineffable tao*
• The tao that can be defined is not the eternal tao*       

The meaning here is Truth, Eternity and Infinity. The theme of unchanging, universal, absolute, ineffable and eternal, and many other possible meanings elude to " 常 " Chang. The term chang is simply constancy; which is something that is faithful and dependable. Lao Tsu's insight here is that the tao is faithful, dependable and unwavering. It has always existed and always will; it is constant beyond change. Lao Tsu's world view is that Tao is central to his teaching; he uses it to establish a systematic "Way of Heaven". In the above cited chapters 1,51,40,25,14,21,25 - the seven meanings of tao are:

1.truth and eternity (chapter 1)  2. creator (Chapter 51)  3. power and potency (Chapter 40) 4. pervasiveness (Chapter 25)  5. principle (Chapter 14)  6.supreme standard (Chapter 21) 7. nature (25)

(1) Truth & Eternity: The Tao that can be told; is not the absolute Tao.

(2) Creator: Tao gives birth to all things; virtue rears them.

(3) Power and Potency: Returning is motion of the Tao

(4) Pervasiveness: Having substance but formed from chaos, it was born before heaven and earth. Silent and sparse, it stands alone and never changes. It is cyclic and never rest. It can act as mother of heaven and earth. I don't know it's name!.. but if I must find a word for it, I will call it "Tao". If  I must find a name for it, I will call it great.

(5) Principle: Hold fast to ancient tao, to handle today's affairs. Knowing the ancient beginnings is called the principle and law of Tao.

(6) Supreme Standard: The content of great virtue is only to follow tao.

(7) Nature: Tao follows Nature.              

GWA  

          

       

The Age of Self Adulation (Flattery) VS Self Promotion (traditions, ideas, concepts)

 Self Promotion vs Self Adulation

 In the age we live in I find it very interesting to document a “Curriculum Vitae”, in the public domain on anyone’s personal spiritual experiences, personal training and relationships with their mentor's.Our world now is full of an abundance of "Repeated Regurgitation of Self Adulation; the long resumes of the promotion of accomplishments, that have already been done. Some people care; but for most its disheartening to ones stomach.  

I have always viewed this as a very personal and singular experience, and not something to display in general public. The East Asian Healing Traditions were never developed or promoted to be marketed or offered for recompense. The traditions were offered to the masses as a way for personal salvation, peace and enlightenment. Historically when Chinese first came over to the west, they offered their traditions to westerners as a way for them to make a living. From Traditional Healing Ways, Chinese Restaurants, Tailors, Dry Cleaners, Martial Arts, this is how they supported themselves. Orthodox Buddhist Traditions have always advocated salvation to the masses through Dana Donation System. Almost all credible Temples and groups are funded through private endeavors and Society’s connected back to Asia.

With all that being said although, anytime a tradition from anywhere comes to a new Country it ultimately is adapted. So we have seen the Spiritual Aspects in East Asian Traditions been adapted from Traditional healing enclaves of spiritual communities, to now our modern world. I think its ok for people that are qualified to offer their knowledge for some kind of exchange. Where I personally draw the line with many people today is, where people use their marketing or sales tactics to take advantage of desperate or uneducated people.

• Self Adulation is simply me-ism the promotion of accomplishments, experiences that have already been completed. Really doesn't often reflect ones current status of where they stand within the traditions or practices they follow or teach. The experiences one do is a crucial component; you need to get out and live youre life and find where you are with what you do. Advice here is, it should not be worn on youre sleeve like a business card although. I tell the students that I teach that it's more important for people to accept you for your contribution and what you have done to advance the practices. In due time those who personally show up, and you know you have an affinity with absolutely share youre experiences and stories. For they will be in it to really know and mentor under you to learn youre art or traditions.

•  Self promotion or should I call it "Shameless Self Promotion". I feel there is nothing wrong with self promotion, as long its balanced and truthful. People will ultimately decide if they want to pursue what you do or not. One does not have to come off like a car salesman trying to twist ones arm to take youre class or buy your products. Most people already have their mind up or not, in most cases.  

The internet is the mega vehicle for Self Promotion. Also don't forget about magazines, newpapers and local stores, to promote oneself. One still has to go out in person to promote what they do, a website can only do so much. Its simply a nice flyer or business card that never disappears. 

 

We have lived in a Eclectic and Integrated Society for many years if you realized it or not. Balanced self-promotion is the art of spreading traditions, ideas, concepts, and a greater vision.When we promote our traditions, we give people something to possibly enhance our personal lives. You give people a doorway  to help themselves in many cases. I remember when Bruce Lee was a very inspirational brand for myself as a youth and a generation for that matter. There have been many books and movies written about him how he transformed many lives. All due to his ability to use movies and some early books to self promote himself and Chinese Martial Arts. Without this for sure Chinese martial Arts would not have flourished as fast.

 

I believe focus on your products, teachings and classes,which most people are interested in anyway. People are looking for the most part for what's in it for them. Put the Self Adulation to Sleep until one day; on a dull day when everyone get's to sit around and listen to stories of old..

 

GWA     

 

 

Prosperity "Flourishing Energy"

 

The wisdom of many close teachers over the years echo a same message about prosperity to me. The real meaning of prosperity is to "flourish"; to increase the well being of oneself and others. This is not limited to "money", but rather to skills and qualities that can increase flourishing energy within others as well.

 Flourishing energy (Prosperity) comes with responsibility to respect  it as a valuable energy source and to utilize it wisely. Often time it can change people to become shallow, greedy and trapped in their own prosperity hell cause they don't truly understand the power of flourishing energy they behold. Many ultimately become polarized in their own "money hell" or relationship to it as well.

Prosperity can increase the well being of others, when it is shared, not hoarded and used powerfully to help humanity. People can recognize the radiance of one who has the flourishing energy around them, it has a radiance that is attractive in multiple ways. It can be nourishing, supportive, and wise. One whom has prosperity is a support for meeting many deepest aspirations. Prosperity is a means to a goal/end, which is potent and empowering.

If prosperity shines onto you in the year of the Ram, utilize youre gifts to uplift the many whom are down and trodden. This year for many will be a off year, where a "loss of faith" will be exhibited by many. The most negative of emotions will come out for some and they will do many rash decisions in their life which could have many consequences and sever long lasting relationships.

In the complete opposite although, flourishing energy will also attract others whom are also devoted and their directives are in alignment with youre world view. Practice as always is key to flourishing, always clear yourself of emotions of greed, egoism, jealousy and envy. For those who connect to flourishing energy, be ready many will come into youre life and great strides will be manifested. Many will also disappear as well, for they are not in alignment with youre flourishing energy; many are not willing to flourish/share with others as well.

The Taoist Way of Healing comes into many lives and gives prosperity. As you embark on shinning the light into people and teaching them how to flourish; there will be discouraging people along the way. Do-not let them distract you from the energy you put in motion. You will be spiritually tested to see what you are made of this is the moment to shine and water everyone with "prosperity flourishing energy". Remember hard work and self discipline will bring flourishing energy all around you. Remember we all come into this world  with nothing and we will leave this world with nothing. So better to create the experience you want and to flow and flourish to others. Enjoy and share youre flourishing energy in the year of the Ram!         


               
         

Wisdom for those on the Path

To expand on the previous post; here's a piece I wrote in a different forum. I see alot of people getting alot of information but lack process or direction. So "to send Chi" in cyber-ville I thought this would be useful here as well.  Take it as face value there are no definitive in anything. 

Traveling abound you encounter many types of people. You see how people perform their art and traditions. There is no region the same as well as the people that practice them.  The one thing that is universal is quality or not. The underlying problem with anything is passing on to the younger generation the fruits of a tradition to be carried forward. This can be seen in family held recipes of a favorite dish, herbal remedy or secret gardening technique.

Being a lifelong student of Spiritual Studies and Body/Mind Health practices I feel its useful to send "Wisdom Chi" to the community. There is usually many burning questions, common questions received like how does one learn? In anything in life I had found with whatever one focuses in one will need the following: 

•   The initiative to get massively passionate on whatever that might be.
•   A Mentor Experience HANDS ON IN PERSON. There is no better way.
•   Access to Oral Tradition; or the insights that are not written anywhere.

These are three check points I follow to this day. When I was a performing Musician/student, I made sure my teachers where the best in their field but also had the Self Mastery "the insights you never seen anywhere". Being a lifetime student as well in East Asian Traditions follows the above. 

A few years back during my comparative Taoist Religious Studies, my teacher sent to me by accident (or not..possibly for shock value). A several day footage of a obscure village in China performing a two week Funeral Ritual that went in out of homes and non stop chanting, and dances etc. It was amazing! The level of Mastery was something I will never forget and was quite moving. It motivated me to ramp up my sincerity of memorization, practice and educating the next generation, even more.

The future of these traditions require mentor-ship, hands on experience and specialized knowledge. Communities, healing enclaves and experiences is how one accelerates the process. You will need to sacrifice things in life to get what you want. Its no different than being in school. In School many are out and about on the weekend and the dedicated are at home studying deeper. The ones that succeed are the dedicated and persevere. The ones whom waste time and don't give extra effort miss out and accumulate miss opportunities.

The internet is great for connecting and communication; as I am doing here.. but should not be the dominant force in getting to be a hopeful expert in whatever one seeks. These practices require serious effort and practice like anything. You will need to be involved with people, teachers and experiences. You have to get tested in whatever you do thats the value of participating. There will be lots of wins, stumbles and plain ole "I blew it moments". 

Eventually through the process you become more educated grounded and begin to the embody the tradition. Learning will never cease and do-not over fill you're cup in haste to avoid someone more experienced then you. Take the useful lessons from anyone and learn to integrate them in you're life practice.  

 

 A old East Asian oral story on The Great Apple says it all:

I can tell one how great this apple is. I can describe it in many wonderful ways and sounds. But it will require you to express your inner will and see for yourself. Only then will it confirm to you all that I have told you. You will need to test many apples large ones, small ones and various types. Only then will you develop the skill of eyes are open to receive the experience; ears open to develop wisdom and mouth mindfully in action to embody the experience. You now have truly learned have you not.

GWA

Creating a Wonderful Life Part I

To Think it And See It, Is to Create;

Imagination Creates You're Reality

Si Tai Gung T.T. Liang

In my classes and traveling this past late winter I encountered many wonderful practitioners and new friends. Often many interesting conversations come up, such as how to create a Life Practice Tradition with Qigong. These are the "Burning Questions" in many peoples minds. So in today's entry I will address it from the standpoint "you have test road many traditions thus far now what"? So much I like and not sure where to go.

Seek Within: The first thing that comes to mind is ask yourself "what is it that you truly want"? What is the practice that brings you the blissful states that you cannot wait to do each and everyday. For whatever it is you really want, that's whats going to flow through you with ease and come out the best. Follow youre heart and find the peace and joy with the practice or tradition that youre most comfortable with. Ignore what everyone else would like to plant in youre mind. 

Understand  that you are on the right road. Embrace it truly and do the best at it, that's what you can begin to focus with massive action and passion. Another point is to find a mentor for sure. Don't kid yourself you will need a mentor/teacher to help you stay accountable to progressing. A great guide is a great map to the end goal. 

Yin/Yang-Fire & Water: We all have strengths and weaknesses. Don't waste time on practices and traditions that totally aggravate you. Everyone's personal cosmology will have a strong "affinity" to certain things. These are practices, traditions and ways we learn that come naturally. There will be also practices and traditions that are in total opposition as well. Forget these practices for the time being, if not forever. Don't waste time on weaknesses, focus on strengths, cultivate them. I have taught students who struggled with certain structures and when it was changed up, viola they start to excel.

 Some people are great at meditation and natural healers, but cannot exist outside of that structure. We also see some are great at learning like a Tai Chi Chuan form, but their naturalness to it - is to expand the structure beyond the ordinary. The typical class will not serve them any longer. We also see some are great form players, but cannot do anything else that well  either.  A comparative tradition is in Music; we see the similarity in Jazz musicians who awakened into improvisation skills who cannot no longer function in a Classical Musician realm. They are now expanded in a different way. I believe not one is better than the other its just ones experience and cosmology to practices and traditions.

Filter What Comes In: Beware of what you let into your consciousness. The only thing holding you back from creating youre peak experiences is you. The way we think is influenced and ultimately will help or derail our progression. There will be critics and "Debbie Downers's" these are usually the people who have created a life of non - completion and are frustrated and jealous. Everyone is entitled to there opinion, but it does not matter in reality. This is just the Chaos of their mind.

Imagination Creates Reality: Master T.T. Liang taught this and wrote about it in his Tai Chuan Text called "Imagination Creates Reality". He simply states in his Liang-isms "To think it and see it is to create; the Imagination Creates Reality". This is taught in Form practice to see youre opponent and imagine the application etc. A more concrete practical application to get progress along the path I recommend the following.

(A) Pick a form, sequence or skill you would like to practice, and put it in your consciousness, the mind. This is something that you will have a personal commitment to for a period of time, until perfected. From there you will truly embody that skill to a new profound level.  As a note here you need to also pick something thats within youre level of reach; even if you are a beginner, this will help you to progress. In these traditions "Less is More" does not have to be so intricate, the most basic can become profound. Work with youre teacher with this in mind. You will have a new found joy and energy if you feel you have been stuck.

(B) Imagination Creates Reality= Imagine right now that form or skill. See yourself performing it. This is the first level of achieving it. Practice this several times a day even within a meditation session. This can be useful and is used in Japanese Shi Kan (Concentrate and Investigate or Look tradition) Meditation. Use video aids to help kick start the memory process....blink it in into the consciousness. Watch people that do it as well in person; which should be the first option. 

(C) Now as you see yourself performing it, use that imagination to create the reality. Imagine what it looks like, perfectly. See yourself doing it elegantly, beautifully and with much joy and bliss. See yourself from beginning to end perfectly... with confidence and with great spirits. The more you are able to fuse that and crystallize that vision; the more you will be able to manifest it as a "self fulfilled personal prophecy", in youre life. 

Practice as much you as can do your best. 

End of Part I

GWA  

                  

                                

       

The Heart of True Mastery

 Master Lao Nai Xuan, the teacher to Richard Wilhem. Richard Wilhelm considered him to a true Master of Taoist Yoga, Taoist philosophy, rituals and teachings of Confucius. Richard Wilhelm translated the most used I Ching still in today's standards, as well as many other classics. Master Lao would qualify I believe as a true Master. But was he satisfied with his own understanding of his teachings?  
 
The current age we live in seems to favor commercialism, marketing and making a business model of anything we can get our western hands on. A rather strange occurrence over the last 50 + years has been the marketing of the East Asian Traditions and anything that can be deemed as not  mainstream health and wellness; we use to call it alternative health at one time.

The marketing of Karate is a perfect example how things really took a wrong right turn in the Karate traditions. Anyone can become a Black-belt, if you pay the fees and can perform the so call "Dan" test and past with average favorable results. Its all about the brand not so much upholding the lineage Masters tradition anymore; anytime money enters the equation things become slippery and agenda based. 

The Age of the Absent True Master  

Where are the unique, leaders and specialist who seek to rise above the fray rather than run with the masses? Thanks to the gifts of the digital age, anyone today can become an “expert.” But this leaves all of us wondering where are the true Masters today. Every year I travel during the spring time reaching out to see what real Masters are there really anymore. In today's age many have passed on or retired, the ones who really proved themselves are in their late 70's and up, so its few left anymore. Many rather be left alone for their discontent for the modern age. I can hardly blame them for being this way. 

In today’s 24/7 digital culture, I believe “experts” are a dime a dozen. In contrast, to a true master, remains rare and valuable. I see many so called self declared Masters out there teaching parts of lineage systems under new names or business plans for their agenda, this is really sad. They opted out to hold the torch for their lineage Master and rather push their book, DVD or workshop. Everyone needs to stop doing this and honor the real Masters.

 I can remember when you had to have above average credential to publish a work with a publisher, now everyone has a something on sites like amazon.com or ebay.com. This has created alot of confusion; so the slick can make alot of money from the naive public. Hardly anyone is promoting the true teachers and most of the books out there are from someones private teaching or family system. Its a double edge sword of exposure; the traditions longed for people to come forward and share their traditions, now its really become likened to Pandora's box..a chaotic mess.

What is True Mastery? 

 True Mastery a mix of factors. First, one of the most important things in achieving mastery is to recognize how you think about it in the first place. That is, when you look at your own capabilities, do you see them as fixed, unchangeable, and simply part of your DNA, like hair color? Is it really a matter of just doing your time in a system and being there the longest because everyone else has quit or moved on? Or do you look at them as actually malleable, things you can improve, you can get better at? Too many people take that first view — that being good at something depends on whether you have it or you don’t or just doing time and paying your fees to get the certificates. Poof...I am now a Master, please bow to me.

 The problem with that belief, as many true Masters would teach is that’s incorrect. It’s not how mastery works. Indeed, if you start with that belief that you’re either good at something or you’re not you won’t achieve mastery. Period. But if you think you are capable of getting better at something, then you have a real shot. Along with thinking about mastery in the right way, the next component is what you actually do because true mastery is really, really hard. I think that’s one reason why few people really achieve it today. It requires enormous amounts of work and persistence. It requires time. It requires grit. It requires effort. It requires setbacks. This is  the true meaning of the universal meaning of Kung Fu. And many practitioner's aren’t willing to accept that deal. We want to achieve mastery without pain. And that’s not possible.

Another point is you also have to come to grips with your mind around this unhappy fact: "you can never actually achieve mastery". When we become content and satisfied we lose the edge; the tangible skill will surely weaken. As time goes on previous levels will no longer serve us it has to evolve. You will get closer and closer and closer to it, but you can never reach it. That’s the nature of  true mastery. A great teacher friend of mine said it best "We are striving to be less incorrect each and everyday we practice as well as when teaching"; true wisdom is it not!    

It does not matter how good you are at something, how blessed you are with the opportunity to improve, no one can ever achieve full mastery. Tai Chi Chuan Master Yang Lu Chan never achieved full mastery. Bruce Lee never achieved full mastery. Bagua Master Tung Hai Chuan never achieved full mastery. Mastery is ever evolving, and that makes it simultaneously frustrating and alluring. So I think the way we can get better at achieving mastery is just to get real about what it takes. And what it takes is thinking about your ability as something you can change and elevate. It requires a lot of pain, effort, and hard work, (Kung Fu) and it brings a certain amount of frustration in realizing that you can never actually achieve it fully.

Key meaning: Cultivation of the Tradition 

All of this is my insight and to enter the realm of encouragement; take it as just that. I consider my teachers in my life to "be Real Masters"; but they would probably just remind me  that gifts are malleable and fluid, like the wisdom of the Tao. Yes, we’re all born with certain gifts and important. But those gifts can grow, mature, and develop. Great men and women in any field recognize their natural gifts but then hone those gifts over time. If we believe that our level of mastery is only a function of our innate makeup, we will never reach our fullest potential.

Famous Kung Fu Masters are born with great talent, but without developing that talent, they would have remained average amateurs. We can always get better. A true one always tell you that no matter one’s level of success, they can always can become better. If we could resurrect people like Yip Man or Taoist Master Lu Tung Bin and ask them what their perfect work of tradition was, I doubt they would be able to name a single aspect or technique....Cultivation of the Tradition is key; Perfection is impossible and a misleading concept.

More to come in on this in coming days enough for now...

GWA

 Understanding Self Healing

Its the teachers job to teach their students to "be able to do what they do". Often time I see the bondage develop with teachers, students & healers; causing the people they see creating unhealthy bondage. It a polarized relationship which is usually caused by them wanting to keep the money flowing in. So they are in essence using each other for their own unhealthy reasons.

Offering these practices in the modern world is a interesting experiment for the most part which is driven by the healer for hire mentality. I often wonder if all the traditions became wide open and accepted and practiced in all communities how much better everyone would be...how much richer the tradition would become. I always tell people watch and see if the relationship with the person they are seeing changes once the money flow comes to a halt. A true person will have the same motivation if its $1.00 or $100.00. A teacher of mine in the 1980's had the greatest line ever I asked how much is class and he said "$1.00 and other valuable considerations"! I said to myself now there is someone who sees the end game first.

 The best teachers I ever had the are ones who charged almost next to nothing; the ones that are the charlatans were the "Tao of Dollars teachers" who are truly deluded by their own silliness. So this is my opinion, many would disagree with me and that's ok everyone has their opinion. My experiences in these traditions have been unique and follow a more Orthodox look at things and a more grand picture. My goal is teaching anyone I meet to find their personal power in this. My school here in Michigan is a small-medium community in which I focus on smaller student count and high quality. I never position myself into the marketing side of these practices but rather look for the special ones that can do exciting work with others.  

The main teaching of East Asian Wisdom is that anyone can adequately take control of their own health and destiny. This is achieved by monitoring and balancing one’s lifestyle habits to heal, prevent illness, and develop longevity. The traditional healers of any indigenous tradition, I believe teaches that people are their own best healers. One’s intuition is better at discerning health imbalances than relying on another person. All that is needed is some basic guidelines offered by a experienced teacher whom truly lives the path they advocate.

The greatest gift a friend, teacher or anyone is to give someone the ability to inspire or motivate someone to  take control of one’s health which inspires self-worth and self-empowerment. The most powerful healing therapy I have done for anyone is teaching to heal and re balance themselves. The faith in our intuitive abilities is further engendered when we see actually the positive results from our efforts. Realizing that we have ability to take control of our health is itself a key factor in true healing.

 The wisdom of true Masters is in "self reliance" which is also the most important component in personal healing and spiritual development. Anyone can learn to rely on their own intuition, along with guidelines from a teacher. As one begins to see positive results developing in their personal life, doubts begin to disappear and true clarity, confidence, and contentment begin to dawn. A real teacher instills this philosophy in the friend, student or client; who then experiences and respects inner intuition and personal power. When people visit the mentor they believe they have such qualities as well by the success of their own health.

We all understand the value of expectation. For example we can take two healers with two different groups of students with average abilities. One healer believes their class was above average; while the other healer  believes they have an average class. The first healer went to teach class expecting exceptional results from the students and treated them accordingly, believing they are special ones. The other Healer just taught the class as best as possible expecting for the best possibly. The average class although had the influence of a teacher who offered healing space unconditionally and empowered the students to just practice and do their best.

The supposed above average class performed average. This is due to the hubris of the healer and themselves putting themselves in a so called higher status.The below average class excelled way beyond expectations. This is due to when the "healing teacher" treats everyone with respect, recognizing their inner intuitive abilities, the students  automatically develop a greater sense of self-worth and faith that they can take control of their health. I have seen this time and time again in my travels. 


As ones self-worth develops, people are not as easily swayed by things that use to; having someone recognize one’s inner power to heal themselves and self healing abilities develops confidence. Experiencing positive results from self healing and personal empowerment further generates confidence, health, mental peace, and real enlightenment.

Concentrating the Mind to Remove Hindrances

Todays journal entry is on Traditional Buddhist Meditation. The focus of this entry is on Concentrating the Mind. As written and taught in many of my classes throughout the years the importance of Meditation and connecting to tradition cannot be underestimated. Qigong is a modern adaptation to selections of the Taoist and Buddhist Tradition. Its not for everyone, but one cannot deny the depth of skills found within these practice systems. In Traditional Buddhist Meditation, the practice of concentrating the mind is known as Samatha (Serenity). Samatha removes the Five Hindrances (Nãvaraõa) and prepares the mind for Wisdom (Vipassanà) meditation. The Five Hindrances are attachment to sensual desire, ill-will, inactivity or sleepiness, anxiety or restlessness, and doubt. Our mind is accustomed to drifting from object to object in the outside world. Concentrating the mind and bringing it inward does require effort, but the mind cannot be forced. Therefore, the Buddha taught various concentration methods/skills.

Concentration Methods/Skills

Within Traditional Buddhist Spiritual Traditions, it is taught that the Buddha taught "forty concentration" skills for meditation; for calming the mind. They are the ten recollections (Anussati), ten meditations on impurities (Asubha), ten complete objects (Kasiõa), four immaterial absorptions (Aråpajhàna), four divine abidings (Brahmavihàra), one perception (âhàre patikålasaññà) or contemplation of the impurity of material food, and one defining contemplation  (Vavatthàna) on the Four Elements (Earth, Water, Fire, and Air).

The Ten Anussati or recollections are: 

(1) Buddhà-nussati or recollection of the virtues of the Buddha
(2) Dhammà-nussati or recollection of the virtues of the Dhamma
(3) Sanghà-nussati or recollection of the virtues of the Sangha
(4) Sãlà-nussati or recollection of the duties of morality
(5) Càgà-nussati or recollection of generosity
(6) Devatà-nussati or recollection of celestial beings
(7) Mara-õassati or recollection of death
(8) Kàya-gatàsati or mindfulness of the body
(9) ânàpànasati or mindfulness of breathing
(10) Upasamà-nussati or recollection of Nibbàna or peace.

The ten impurities or kinds of foulness (Asubha) are:

 (1) The bloated
 (2) The livid
 (3) The festering
 (4) The cut-up
 (5) The gnawed
 (6) The scattered
 (7) The hacked and scattered
 (8) The bleeding
(9) The worm-infested
(10) A skeleton

The ten Kasiõa or complete objects are:
(1) Earth
(2) Water
(3) Fire
(4) Wind
(5) Space (âkàsa)
(6) Light (âloka-kasiõa)
(7-10) the four colors or Vaõõa-kasiõa (blue, yellow, red, and white)

The four divine abodes or Brahmavihàra are loving kindness (Mettà), compassion (Karuõà), sympathetic joy (Mudità), and equanimity (Upekkhà).

A student of Buddhist Meditation teachings can select any one or combination of these forty meditation subjects, according to ones own character. For example, Kasiõa concentration is very suitable for those with sensual desire, restlessness of mind, or inclination toward anger, hatred or ill will.

For those whose habits areintellectual thought, devotion or delusion, mindfulness of breathing (ânàpànasati) and recollection of Buddha’s virtues (Buddhà-nussati) are most suitable.

Notes:

•  The forty are listed in the Visuddhi-magga. Some teachers maintain that only 38 were specified by the historical Buddha and that two were added later. If you would like a copy of this work, its a nice large ebook written through the Theravada Council ~  email me at Taozahnchi@gmail.com

• This short journal entry is based on teachings from Theravada; which uses original Pali terms and concepts of Traditional Buddhism. They are shared teachings even in Mahayana with minor differences and dialects. All the credit goes to my teachers and Mentors for allowing me access to their Notebooks and personal teachings.   

For further Study on Buddhist Meditation below are very excellent self guides if one cannot find a teacher, community or temple.

Zen is for Everyone by Su Lao Shr (Michael Saso)
The Essential of Buddhist Meditation by Bhikshu Dharmamitra (book I)
The Six Dharma Gates to the Sublime by Bhikshu Dharmamitra (book II)
The Sweet Dews of Chan by Ajari Chen Kuan



   

 Practice is Key in Anything!

Recently I certified a student in one of the traditions I teach; it was a real joy since the student earned every inch of it from practice, hard work, and personal study. They took regular group classes along with private sessions and attended weekend study workshop's throughout the last 15 months. I never look to "mission-size" what I teach for the public, but every now and then you find students that hold potential for the better good of the community. So I pour my experience into them and hope for the best they will last the long training ride! Then wha-la you have a new member of the tradition that can spread the tradition for the betterment of people seeking health salvation.   

 We live in age where people pay a fee to learn a traditions and sometimes expect instant results. It does not work that way in these traditions. The price you pay no matter what the price is providing you access to apprentice in the teachers life traditions and approach. What is most worthwhile and meaningful cannot be accomplished in a weekend or a few months.  True achievement is accomplished through years of dedicated practice and study, under the guidance of a teacher who also practices daily and studies and has achieved through many years of dedication and discipline the true essence of their given Art.

In Qigong Practice, the practice reveals it's knowledge over time through a process of energy enlightenment. Different levels of this knowledge come through when the person's mind, spirit and body are ready. Study is also important to gain insight into the vast knowledge available, through different master teachers,  who through the process have received energy knowledge, evolved it and offered their unique insight into the understanding of energy healing for the self and others. This rich knowledge has been contributed to over 1000's of years by the many teachers and masters of the past.

Wisdom here is that focusing on the discipline of practice, internalize the instruction that is given verbally in class.  Over time as the person attends classes and practices at home, they will learn more and more about the particular set/tradition being offered in the class.The classes are offered this way to encourage the discipline of practice and reveal the benefits of studying heart-to-heart with a teacher and also the benefits of practicing in a group. Once the student has shown dedication and genuine desire to learn by attending classes and practicing daily, they may, if they so desire after one year be introduced to higher instruction.

Those advanced students who have shown dedication and discipline of practice may through an agreement between teacher and student receive certification as a qi gong instructor.

The Certificate is only as good as the practitioner makes it; having credentials does not give a sense to stop learning pondering and trying to refine what they know. The best Sages I have known in life are the ones who don't stand on their "Scholarly Title and affiliations" but know the practice from living the tradition. As the old saying goes "You cannot cook anything from talk"; and "words and thoughts will pull you further away from the Tao".  The overall thought here today is focus on practice, because without it you cannot experience anything that all the great sages have recorded. 

Gary