Understanding the Flow of Energy: Dao, Qigong, and Meditation

Introduction

Learn about Daoism and how it can help in modern life. This blog will give you a basic understanding of Qigong and show you how to harness your Qi energy flow. You’ll also learn simple meditation techniques to find peace and balance between Yin and Yang. Join us to improve your well-being and spiritual growth.

The Dao: The Unseen Source of Everything

The Dao, introduced in the Dao De Jing, is an unseen force shaping everything. While it can’t be fully explained in words, its effects are seen in both physical and spiritual life. The Dao is the source of all things and guides the natural order of the universe. What does this mean?

According to Daoist thinking, the Dao is hard to fully understand. We know it is the source of everything. When you see something in nature, it was created by the Dao. When you see something made by humans, it’s still a part of the Dao.

Another important point is about names. People tend to organize things by naming them. This helps us understand them better, but it doesn't work with the Dao. In the Dao De Jing, it says once we give the Dao a name, it stops being the true Dao that created everything.

The Dao doesn’t see things as good or bad. Everything is just opposite. Can you say something is tall if you’ve never seen short? Can you know darkness without having seen light?

If everything is just opposites, do we need to get frustrated with life? Is envy necessary? These are important questions we can ask ourselves.

Daoist philosophy teaches that everything is connected and seeks balance. When something is unbalanced, nature tries to correct it. This idea is shown in the symbol of Yin and Yang, where opposites don’t fight each other, but instead, work together.

Let’s review. We know the Dao is the source of everything. We know we can’t fully define it. We know it is naturally balanced. I’ll probably add more to this list as I learn more about Daoism.

I find this way of thinking freeing. During the day, many things can affect my mind and body. But when I think like a Daoist, instead of getting upset, I can understand the experience is teaching me about its opposite. Also, since everything will return to balance, I know I’ll experience the opposite feeling soon enough.

The Ancient Practice of Qigong

Qigong is deeply influenced by Daoism and has been practiced for over 2,500 to 5,000 years. While its origins are unclear, it has been passed down through generations in China.

Qigong has shaped Chinese medicine, philosophy, and spiritual growth. Its health benefits are still being studied, but it remains a key cultural practice in China.

One important idea in Qigong is balance. In traditional Chinese medicine, it’s believed the body naturally tries to stay balanced. When Qi, or energy, is out of balance, it can cause illness. Qigong exercises help restore balance through movement, breathing, and meditation. Herbal remedies are often used with these practices to promote overall health.

Now we see the link between the Dao and Qigong. The next question is, how can I use these ideas in my life?

To maintain balance, we need to combine external exercise with internal work. What does that mean?

As martial artists get older, they may lose physical ability from years of hard training. Athletes and soldiers experience this too. This happens when external training is overdone without enough internal exercises like Qigong, leading to a loss of health and vitality.

So, we need to mix external exercises with internal meditation to stay healthy and maintain a smooth flow of Qi in the body, preventing blockages as we age.

What if you don’t exercise at all? Then you face a different problem. Lack of movement weakens your organs and muscles, leading to poor health. Instead of being weak from overtraining, this weakness comes from a lack of movement. This can cause issues like heart disease, obesity, and stiffness over time.

What should we do? We need to balance both physical exercise and internal training. Qigong is a great way to do this.

It’s also important to know that there are many traditions within Qigong. Each tradition has its own approach, but all aim for the same goal—balance and harmony in body and mind.

Qigong is generally split into two paths: the martial path, which builds strength and energy, and the meditation path, which focuses on peace, health, and spiritual growth.

I am choosing the martial path because it feels right for me. It’s also a good starting point for beginners. The martial path is practical and easy to understand. It involves physical movements that show progress quickly, which helps build strength in both body and mind.

Sitting in Stillness: Lessons from Buddha in Blue Jeans

The key to starting meditation is focus. There are many ways to stay focused, but simple methods work best. Here, I’ll share a basic meditation technique that will build a foundation for more advanced techniques.

In Buddha in Blue Jeans, the author talks about sitting or standing quietly to find inner peace. You need a comfortable posture and relaxed breathing. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back.

How does this apply to us? Find a posture that lets you breathe easily. You can stand, sit, or use the lotus position. It doesn’t matter, as long as your breathing is relaxed. Since I’m following the martial path, I choose to stand. You can find more details on this on my YouTube channel.

Once you’re in position, breathe slowly and comfortably. The best way I’ve found to focus is by not closing my eyes. Count your breaths—one breath in and one breath out equals one count. Keep counting until you reach 100. When your mind starts to wander, bring it back to your breathing.

This is the foundation for all future meditation techniques.

Integrating the Practices for a Holistic Life

We’ve covered a lot. We’ve talked about Daoist ideas, Qigong basics, and a meditation technique. Now, the next step is to practice what we’ve learned.

This is the path I’m taking. I’m building a habit of daily meditation. My main goal is to stay focused on my breathing for 100 counts.

FAQ:

Q: What is qigong and how does it relate to the flow of energy?

A: Qigong is an ancient practice that combines movement, meditation, and breathing techniques to cultivate and balance your vital energy, known as qi. It focuses on the flow of qi through energy pathways in the body, promoting health and well-being.

Q: What are the benefits of qigong?

A: The benefits of qigong are numerous! It helps reduce stress, improves flexibility, enhances mental clarity, and can even boost your immune system. Plus, it’s great for energy cultivation and can assist in healing various health issues through its practice.

Q: Can qigong be used for medical purposes?

A: Yes! Medical qigong is a specialized branch that focuses on healing and health improvement. Many qigong practitioners use it to promote health, manage chronic illnesses, and aid recovery from various medical conditions.

Q: What are the origins of qigong?

A: The history of qigong trace back thousands of years in China, where it evolved from ancient traditions of Taoist philosophy, martial arts, and traditional Chinese medicine. It has been refined over the centuries into various styles and forms.

Q: How do I start to practice qigong?

A: To start practicing qigong, you can find local classes or online tutorials that guide you through basic movements and breathing techniques. Also, you can follow me as I go through this process. Remember, it’s all about feeling the flow of qi within your body, so take your time and enjoy the process!

Q: Is there a connection between qigong and tai chi?

A: Yes, there’s definitely a connection! Tai chi and qigong share similar principles and movements. Both practices focus on the flow of energy and can complement each other nicely, enhancing your overall practice and understanding of qi.

Q: What styles of qigong are there?

A: There are many styles of qigong, each with its unique focus and techniques. Qigong training is generally grouped into 2 paths. The Martial Path and Meditation Path. Each style offers different benefits and practices to explore.

Q: How does qigong help with stress relief?

A: Qigong helps with stress relief by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. The gentle movements and focused breathing encourage the circulation of qi, which calms the mind and releases built-up tension in the body.

Q: Can anyone practice qigong?

A: Absolutely! Qigong is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. It’s designed to be adaptable, so whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, there’s a form of qigong for you!

Q: What should I expect during a qigong session?

A: During a qigong session, you can expect a combination of gentle movements, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices. You’ll be encouraged to connect with your body and the flow of qi, helping you feel relaxed and energized by the end.