Showing posts with label pranayama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pranayama. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Tai chi (chi gong) is NOT an exercise


Tai chi is today thought of as a Chinese martial art created for combat and self-defense, but that is tai chi chuan, chuan meaning "fist."

For most practitioners, it has (d)evolved into an "exercise," a relaxation technique, and a sport. As an exercise and relaxation technique, tai chi is practiced in set sequences known as "forms" (taolu), usually in gentle, flowing, circular motions that are often described as "meditation in motion," though they may also be performed in faster and more vigorous routines.

As a sport, competitors are judged on their performance in forms, pushing hands, and free sparring. As a martial art, practitioners master the applications of forms and partner work for effective self-defense.
  • Master Lam practicing in Sichuan
    Qigong (Chi gong) is the movement of energy
    : It is a system of coordinated body-posture and movement, breathing, and meditation [2] said to be useful for the purposes of spirituality, health, and self-defense martial arts training [3]. With roots in Chinese medicine, philosophy, and martial arts, qigong is traditionally viewed by the Chinese and throughout Asia as a practice to cultivate and balance the mystical life-force chi or qi [4]. Qigong practice typically involves moving meditation, coordinating slow-flowing movement, deep rhythmic breathing, and a calm meditative state of mind. People qigong worldwide for meditation, recreation, exercise, relaxation, preventive medicine, self-healing, alternative medicine, self-cultivation, and training for martial arts [2].
One implies the other in pairs. It is not balance
Many styles of tai chi are practiced, both traditional and modern. While the precise origins are not known, the earliest well-documented practice began during the Ming-Qing transition at Chen Village and Zhabao Village in Henan on the North China Plain, a region where centuries of rebellions, invasions, and adverse economic and social conditions nurtured the development of a wide range of martial arts, including those of the Shaolin (Kung Fu) Buddhist Monastery on Mount Song at the western edge of the plain.


Most modern styles trace their development to five traditional schools:
  1. Chen,
  2. Yang,
  3. Wu (Hao),
  4. Wu,
  5. Sun.
In the early 20th century, Yang Chengfu, Wu Jianquan, Sun Lutang, and others promoted and standardized the art for its health benefits in programs supported by the Nationalist government.

This approach was further expanded and institutionalized by the PRC (Peoples Republic of China) government after 1949. In 2020, tai chi was included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. More

Saturday, August 29, 2026

The Buddhist origins of Reiki (video)


Reiki Founder Mikao Usui
Mikao Usui (1865-1926), commonly Usui Mikao in Japanese, was the founder of Reiki, a form of spiritual energy healing used as an alternative therapy for the treatment of physical, emotional, and mental diseases.

He taught Reiki to over 2,000 people during his lifetime. Eleven of these students continued their training to reach the Shinpiden level, equivalent to the Western third degree or Master level.

Early life, family, and education
What is our energetic aura?
He was born in Taniai village (now Miyama cho), Yamagata district, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, now located near present-day Nagoya. His ancestors were the once influential Chiba clan of Hatamoto samurai.

According to the inscription on his memorial, Tsunetane Chiba, a military commander during the end of the Heian period and the start of the Kamakura period (1180-1230), was one of Usui's ancestors.

In 1551, Toshitane Chiba conquered the city Usui and thereafter all family members acquired that name.

Usui was raised as a samurai from childhood, specifically in the martial arts techniques of aiki (合氣術) or "Way of Aiki" = Aikido.
  • A Shumei member recently told us that three Japanese men all belonged to an organization called Oomoto Kyo ("Great Source"). One went on to develop Reiki, another (Morihei Ueshiba) Aikido, and a third (Mokichi Okada) Jyorei energy healing and Shumei.
  • Aikido Founder Morihei Ueshiba developed Aikido as a synthesis of his martial studies, philosophy, and religious beliefs. His goal was to create an art that practitioners could use to defend themselves while also protecting their attackers from injury. Aikido is often translated as "the way of unifying (with) life energy" or as "the way of harmonious spirit." According to the founder's philosophy, the primary goal in the practice of aikido is to overcome oneself instead of cultivating violence or aggressiveness against others.
Although there are many stories extant in the United States that Usui earned a doctorate in theology at the theological seminary of the University of Chicago, he never attended, let alone received any degree from the University of Chicago.

Career and activities
There is a universal life force (chi or ki)
As an adult, it is believed that he traveled to several Western countries, including the Americas, Europe, and China as a part of his continued study.

His studies included medicine, history, Buddhism, Christianity, psychology, and Taoism.

It is believed that the aim of Usui's teachings was to provide a method for students to achieve connection with the "universal life force" energy (prana, esoteric energy, holy spirit, spiritus, animating force) that would help them in their self-development.


What sets his teachings apart from other hands-on healing methods is his use of attunement (reiju) to remind students of their spiritual connection.

It seems that all of his students received five principles to live by and those with a further interest in the teachings became dedicated students.

There does not appear to have been a distinction between clients and students in the beginning though this may have changed at some point.

People began coming to Usui Mikao possibly for different purposes -- some for healing and others for the spiritual teachings.

Shugendō is a Japanese mountain ascetic shamanism that incorporates Shinto and Buddhist practices [15].

The roles of Shugendō practitioners include offering religious services such as fortune telling, divination, channeling, prayer, ritual incantations, and exorcism.

Shugendo was often used by family clans to heal disease or avoid misfortune [11].

Claims of Reiki's Christian origins
Hawayo Takata, a Reiki Master under the tutelage of Chujiro Hayashi (林 忠次郎, 1880–1940), lied about Reiki's history of development to make Reiki more appealing to the West [16].

To this end she made a relation of Reiki with Jesus Christ and not with Buddhism.

Buddhist origins of Reiki

She also falsely presented Usui as the dean of a Christian school. While he had obtained the knowledge of Reiki from the Buddhist religious book The Tantra of the Lightning Flash, Takata claimed that he had been inspired from the story of Jesus Christ, who had healed with the touch of his hand.

So Usui, it was said, had come to America to learn Reiki. She told this to spread Reiki among Christians, too, believing it would otherwise be extinct.

However, in 1994, the original manuscript was found, which claimed that Reiki had originated from Gautama Buddha, the historical founder of Buddhism [17]. More
The origins of Reiki and the glory of India:  It's all prana (breath, spirit, spiritual-energy)

(Yogiraj SatGurunath Siddhanath) Nov. 22, 2015. Yogiraj Gurunath Siddhanath World Tour Schedule: siddhanath.org

Monday, August 10, 2026

How to BREATHE (through the nose)


Simple single-minded attention
In meditation, there is no need to control the breath or breathe a special way. But there is a need to breathe (except, strangely, in the absorptions, but no one believes that until it is experienced directly).

And that will be very difficult and derail a practice if the nose is blocked, the nostril collapse, the septum is deviated, the turbinates are swollen or inflamed, or air cannot easily get in or out.

My whole anapanasati (mindfulness of in-and-out breaths) to focus on the breath has been derailed by nasal, sinus, and septum problems. I'm not the only one. Old injuries, obstructions, inflammation, normal aging, it can all add up to snoring, mouth breathing, exhaustion, grogginess, daytime sleepiness, confusion, and an inability to progress with this practice.

Let go? Have it all. So-hum

So the question "How to breathe?" is crucial and essential for some and nothing at all to worry about for others, who do not know we're suffering from such a basic disability or frustrating obstacle to progress.
This company may have a quick solution. Longer term solutions may involve a medical specialist and a thorough check up. Why keep suffering needlessly? Look at Klein from KROQ's Klein Ally Show.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Why do students listen to Dalai Lama?



I asked 89-year-old Dalai Lama for life advice and learned...
(Sprouht) March 2, 2025: I flew over 10,000 kilometers from Canada to Northern India and asked the 89-year-old 14th Dalai Lama for "life advice." He shared with me one of the most valuable pieces of advice I've ever heard. This was one of the most incredible journeys I've ever taken to date. Please enjoy one of the most incredible stories we've ever told.

 
China calls me Devil. Ha ha ha! So I do like this
(Tibetan doon boy) An American asks, "Is the Dolly Llama the Pope of Buddhism?" It comes as no surprise that there should be confusion. As Americans, we are bombarded with attention to a little-known sect of (Vajrayana) Buddhists on the Rooftop of the World. Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, was once the seat of a Himalayan empire that reached from Mongolia to Bangladesh, from Bangladesh to Kashmir. With the help of Hitler looking for the original Aryans and magical artifacts and the CIA fighting China and the expansion of communism, the West is bombarded with messages about how important this lama is or is supposed to be. China hates him. And due to the Dorje Shugden controversy, there's in-fighting among Tibetan Buddhists. Some New Kadampa Tradition practitioners hate him. But Americans, we are told we love him without understanding what his is or is supposed to be. The Simpsons jokes about it with Lenny, Carl, and Richard Gere. And the Jewish community loves and supports him. Last Week Tonight with John Oliver solved it with an exploratory episode, interviewing Americans then traveling to Tibet and meeting with "His Holiness" himself.

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

How to go on a drug TRIP (without drugs)


How to trip without psychedelics (entheogenic substances)
Use of mandala/yantra art for visualization
(Juliana Garces Art) Nov. 29, 2025: Can we trip without external psychedelic drugs? Yes. Our own body is capable of creating mystical, visionary, DMT-like states completely on its own.

This video share ten of the most powerful natural ways to access expanded consciousness without using any substances. The final one is considered the most intense of all.

These methods have shaped my spiritual journey, my art, and my understanding of the mind. Some come from ancient traditions, some from modern science, and some from the hidden corners of consciousness itself.

Enjoy exploring mystical states, inner worlds, and the nature of reality?  Make sure to subscribe for more videos like this. Thanks for watching.

Anjali mudra, Thai wai (devi)
Sending love and blessings on the journey. Namaste.

ABOUT: I am [Juliana Garces is] a visionary artist and poet on a mission to raise our collective consciousness through art. I create artworks, poems, and videos about mystical subjects to help inspire people to find the divine within themselves. Resonate with my work? Please check out these links:

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Breathwork for pineal gland: open third eye


(The School of Breath) Breathing techniques (and bandhas or chakra locks) to activate pineal gland and open third eye (with instant results).

A bandha (Sanskrit बंध) is a kriyā [simple action] in Hatha Yoga, being a kind of internal mudra [disposition or pose] described as a "body lock" [1][2].

It is done to seal or lock the vital energy (prana) into a particular part of the body, such as the area of one of the spinal chakras or energy wheel centers. Bandha literally means bond, fetter, or "catching hold of" [3][4][5]. More

Mindfulness of breathing is letting go of control

Mindfulness in Plain English
It is easy to misunderstand and mistakenly think that we are being "mindful" of the breath by controlling (holding it in, exhaling out, making it long or short or like a bellows). This is completely wrong. To be mindful, we radically allow, accept, and observe it as it is, however it is. There is no attempt to control it. By watching it with great interest but noninvolvement, not wishing for it to do anything different than it is doing, we radically accept it and remain observant. This kind of watching, observing, keen interest will bring us to stillness (right-concentration, samma-samadhi, coherent all-togetherness of mind, super consciousness).

Uddiyana bandha in a Western yoga class (wiki)
Breath work, on the other hand, is manipulation of the breath (retention, expulsion, tightening, speeding up, bellowing, etc.) for some other purpose, such as wrestling it, forcing it, extending it, and so on in the play/work of yoga (union with spirit or spiritus, the "holy spirit" that is the subtle breath sometimes called pneuma or prana).

When it is time to practice mindfulness (satipatthana) of it, just watch. But keep watching no matter how fine it gets, even when it seems to disappear for stretches. Remain at the tip of the nostrils waiting for it, like a shepherd who has no need of going out to find wandering livestock, knowing that simply waiting by the waterhole, such livestock will surely return of their own accord. This sort of watching of the breath is then broadened to other parts of the
  1. body
  2. feelings
  3. mind
  4. phenomena (dhammas, not the Dhamma or Dharma).
All of this is spelled out in detail in the "Discourse on the Fourfold Setting Up of Mindfulness," popularly known as the "Four Foundations of Mindfulness Sutra" (Satipatthana Sutta), of which there are two, one a little longer than the other.
  • The School of Breath, YouTube; Yogi Dhr. Seven and Yogini Amber Larson, Wisdom Quarterly

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Is Shaolin Zen Temple kung fu real?





Buddhist vs. Shaolin monks: What's the difference?
Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy edited by Wisdom Quarterly
Shaolin Temple, nestled in the Songshan Mountains of China's Henan Province, is renowned for its rich history and dual traditions of Buddhism and martial arts.

Within its sacred walls, both peaceful Buddhist monks and Shaolin "warrior monks" live and practice, each following distinct paths of spiritual and physical cultivation, providing a fascinating glimpse into two distinct yet intertwined traditions.

Explore the daily lives, rites of passage, and unique practices of these Buddhist monks, revealing a rich tapestry of discipline, devotion, and heritage that continues to captivate and inspire people around the world.

A difference in monks

Buddhist monks can be found in various regions across the world, each embodying the diverse traditions and practices of Buddhism.

In [Mahayana Buddhist] China, there are multiple sects such as Chan (Zen) Buddhism, Pure Land Buddhism, and Tibetan Buddhism [which claims to be a distinct branch called Vajrayana], each with its unique rituals, teachings, and monastic disciplinary codes.

Outside of China, Buddhism existed in an earlier form in countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Laos, with Theravada Buddhism being predominant in Southeast Asia.


Mahayana Buddhism flourishes in East Asia, including financial powerhouses Japan and Singapore.

These regional differences lead to a rich variety of practices [and old and misleading distinctions like "Northern" and "Southern" schools, extant Mahayana vs. defunct Hinayana], from the monasticism of Theravada Southeast Asia to meditative and austere lifestyle of Japanese Zen monks to the vibrant rituals and chanting of Tibetan monks [and other Himalayan traditions in Nepal, Bhutan, India, Mongolia, and Russia].

Despite these regional differences, all Buddhist monastics (monks and nuns) share a common dedication to the principles of mindfulness (sati), ethical living (sila), and the pursuit of enlightenment (bodhi).

So what’s the difference between Chinese Mahayana Buddhist monks and Shaolin monks?

Buddhist monks
Literary monastics (wenseng) study
Religious affiliation: Buddhist monks adhere to the teachings and practices of "Buddhism" -- which might be divided between those who follow the historical Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama) and those who have moved beyond that to devotional practices worshipping Cosmic Buddhas like Amitabha and Vairocana or great Bodhisattvas like Budai and Guan Yin.

Buddhism a spiritual tradition that encompasses many schools and sects. Buddhism originated in proto-India and spread to other parts of Asia [particularly South and Central Asia] then to China, where it became one of the three major religions along with Confucianism and Taoism.

Monastic orders
Warrior monks (wuseng) train to fight
Buddhist monastics belong to monastic orders or communities (sanghas), where they take vows of celibacy, poverty, and self-discipline.

They devote their lives to the pursuit of enlightenment and the alleviation of suffering, following the Noble (Ennobling) Eightfold Path and other Buddhist principles.

Spiritual practices
Buddhist monastics engage in a wide range of spiritual practices, including sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindfulness practices, protection (paritta) chanting, sutra recitation, and ritual ceremonies.

They seek to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness through their practices, aiming to attain nirvana -- liberation from the cycle of rebirth and death known as samsara. More: Buddhist vs. Shaolin Monks: What's the Difference?

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Supernatural powers of humans (video)


Shocking superpowers beyond human limits science can't explain
(GlobeGo) Premiered Nov. 2, 2024: Welcome to GlobeGo, which dives deeply into the world’s most mind-bending mysteries. This travel documentary uncovers the secrets of strange people who seem to violate the laws of physics. Yes, that's right — bizarre individuals defy science in ways no one can yet explain. From impossible strength to mind-boggling speed, some people violate the norm with superhuman feats beyond imagination. How do they do it? What hidden truths lie behind their supernatural powers? Join the journey into the unknown and witness some of them. It may lead some to question reality.

Key Moments
  • 00:27 Number 21: Rickshaw saver violating the laws of physics
  • 01:21 Number 20: The mystic who survived without food and water
  • 03:09 Number 19. The Iceman Wim Hoff
  • 05:06 Number 18. The girl with X-ray vision
  • 06:31 Number 17. The Monkey King
  • 07:14 Number 16. The King Tooth
  • 08:36 Number 15. The Rubber Boy
  • 09:26 Number 14. Man with the Stretchiest Skin
  • 10:31 Number 13. The Magnet Man
  • 11:44 Number 12. The Battery Man
  • 13:21 Number 11. The Wolverine
  • 14:11 Number 10. Telekinetic office worker
  • 15:36 Number 9. The Bee Man
  • 17:26 Number 8. The Masai jumpers
  • 18:59 Number 7. Children who see like dolphins
  • 20:48 Number 6. Buddhist monks who warm their bodies with just their minds
  • 22:38 Number 5. Indian chef with magic (fireproof) hands
  • 24:11 Number 4. The lion whisperer
  • 25:20 Number 3. Teleportation girl
  • 26:19 Number 2. The fastest human calculator
  • 27:16 Number 1. The incredible memory
👇 Watch more fascinating videos about cultures and people around the world: 👇
#tribeviolateallthelawsofphysics #strangetribe #bizarretribe #traveldocumentary #documentaries #GlobeGo. Channel💪@globego88

Saturday, October 26, 2024

Breathe into new states of consciousness


I'm starting to feel prana (chi) move in braincells
If one is on a journey that is lowering stress levels (Who isn't in 2024?), odds are one has come across the term "breathwork."

Unlike everyday breathing, breathwork involves [being mindful to modify, adjust, alter, and] control breathing patterns to improve mental, emotional, and physical states.

O, I see it now. It's starting to kick in. Oh wow!
Taking things up a notch, there is also Holotropic Breathwork, or HB for short, which utilizes accelerated deep breathing, stimulating music, and a tailored setting to help participants enter a nonordinary state of consciousness that activates the natural inner healing process.

From inside the mind, the healing activated by HB can potentially help alleviate past mental and physical trauma or mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders, for example.

Curious to learn more, we emailed Director of the Institute for Holotropics and Grof Transpersonal Training Cary Sparks.

For reference, Grof Transpersonal Training (holotropic.com) through the Institute for Holotropics is the only organization in the world that can certify Holotropic Breathwork facilitators.

What is Holotropic Breathwork?

Holotropic Breathwork was created in 1974 by Stanislav Grof, an American psychiatrist, LSD researcher, and one of the principal developers of transpersonal psychology; his wife at the time, Christina Grof, was a psychotherapist, teacher, artist, and student of Mythologist Joseph Campbell.

Sunday, October 6, 2024

Yoni power and vagina talk (video)


Female sexual energy is just as important
(Library of Tehuti) Oct. 6, 2024: Learn about the hidden power of female sexual energy and discover its importance in spiritual growth and consciousness expansion.

This video delves into ancient wisdom from Tantric and Taoist traditions, revealing the sacred nature of the yoni and its potential for spiritual evolution.
  • 00:00 Just as important
  • 01:15 Sacred yoni gate
  • 04:37 Female tantrika
  • 07:45 Sexual kung fu
Understand the concept of the "Sacred Yoni Gate" and how it serves as a cosmic antenna for creation. Explore practical techniques for cultivating and circulating sexual energy, including Tantric practices and sexual kung fu.

Discover how to separate orgasm from ejaculation. Practice ovarian breathing. Use sexual energy for healing and manifestation.

This video offers empowering knowledge for women seeking to tap into their innate divine feminine power and use it for spiritual ascension.

🌀 Whether one is new to these concepts or an experienced practitioner, this video provides valuable insights into the mystical essence of female sexuality and its role in cosmic evolution.


🌀 All artwork is illustrated and designed by the Library of Tehuti Team. 🌀 For problems or inquiries about this video, please contact: libraryoftehuti@gmail.com. Thank once again for presence and engagement.

📚 SOURCES
  • Chia, Mantak, and Maneewan Chia. Healing Love through the Tao: Cultivating Female Sexual Energy. Destiny Books, 1986.
  • Camphausen, Rufus C. The Yoni: Sacred Symbol of Female Creative Power. Inner Traditions, 1996.
  • Douglas, Nik, and Penny Slinger. Sexual Secrets: The Alchemy of Ecstasy. Destiny Books, 1999. 
  • Mumford, Jonn. Ecstasy Through Tantra. Llewellyn Publications, 2002.
  • Richardson, Diana. Tantric Orgasm for Women. Destiny Books, 2004.
  • Abrams, Jeremiah. The Shadow in the Sheets: Sacred Sexuality in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction. Park Street Press, 2000.
🔴 SUBSCRIBE: @libraryoftehuti. TAGS: #FemaleEnergyPower #SacredFeminine #TantricWisdom #YoniPower #SexualChiCultivation #DivineWomb #SpiritualSexuality #TaoistSexualKungFu #ConsciousOrgasm #EnergyRetention #FeminineMysticism #SacredSexuality #YoniBreathing #SpiritualAscension #DivineCreation #FemaleEmpowerment #TantricPractices #SexualEnergyCultivation #CosmicFeminine #SpiritualEvolution #FemaleSpiritualty #SacredWomb #EnergyCirculation #TaoistWisdom #FeminineAwakening