Qianfeng Daoist Training for Women
Original Chinese Language Article By: Qianfeng Daoist Master Zhao Ming Wang (赵明旺)
(Translated by Adrian Chan-Wyles PhD)
Translator’s Note: Qianfeng Daoist Master – Zhao Ming Wang – of Beijing, sent the following Chinese language text to me via email on the 30th of April, 2015, following an enquiry concerning how women practice Daoist self-cultivation. I have translated this text into English, and have included the original Chinese text. Daoist texts are notoriously difficult to translate as there are a plethora of specialist terms, many of which are not only specific when given in a certain context, but which are also interchangeable when presented in another context. By and large, apart from the female specific content, the development as outlined below conforms with that found within Charles Luk’s book entitled Taoist Yoga – but with the added complication of one or two eccentric uses of Daoist terms which I have done my best to present in a coherent manner. The difference between men and women is straightforward and directly linked to sexual function. Whereas a man stops seminal emission to preserve essential nature (精 – Jing) which is stored in the kidneys, for a woman, the equivalent practice is that of sublimating the menstrual cycle and the milk-producing function of the breasts. Whereas a man can stop seminal emissions immediately simply through an act of will, a woman must spend time on correctly transforming the biological functions of the body so that jing loss during menstruation is gradually reduced and then stopped altogether. This is achieved simultaneously by changing the breast function and preventing jing loss through the nipples (as milk), or through leakage that seeps out via the open channels. Over-time, qi energy is integrated with the blood flow and transformed into vital force. This vital force is used to saturate the womb and vagina, as well as the breasts, and in so doing blocks the leakage of jing usually lost in menstruation or through the breasts. A woman may well still menstruate whilst practising this method of self-cultivation for some time before all jing loss is finally stopped, but as the female body progresses through the monthly cycle, focusing the mind on the body has the beneficial effect of reducing the amount of jing that is lost. The flow of vital force through the womb and breast area links these parts of the body with the general internal qi energy flow, and in so doing, eventually prevents the menstrual cycle from occurring. Once the female practitioner has secured this ability, then the path to be followed is exactly that as pursued by a man. It is interesting to note that middle-aged women who are experiencing the menopause, can use this Daoist method to take control of the naturally occurring biological process, and in so doing greatly increase her vitality and health. Whereas in the West it is generally considered a serious medical issue should a woman stop experiencing menstruation (usually because such an experience is due to a deficiency or some other debilitating health issue), within Daoist thinking, it is considered an achievement not only for preserving good health, but also with the spiritual attribute of realising nothing short of immortality. As always these articles are designed for educational purposes only and should not be taken as an indicator for practice, or viewed as some kind of remote instruction. The practice that unfolds below originates within another culture and requires the expert guidance of those trained in that culture. Finally, from a medical perspective, it is obvious that early Daoists obviously based the principle of the ‘immortal foetus’ on the actual and real pregnancy experienced by a woman. This is interesting as a human pregnancy lasts around 10 months, or approximately three hundred days before the baby is born. The Daoist spiritual mirroring of this biological process means that although a man begins his self-cultivation practice differently to that of a woman, nevertheless, he has to conform to the idea that a foetus forms within him as a means to achieve immortality, or spiritual enlightenment when the foetus is matured. The birth of the baby is equated with an expansion of consciousness, which is itself a consequence of the optimisation and unification of qi energy, essential nature, (jing) and spirit (shen).
ACW 24.3.2016
The theory behind ‘nei dan’ (内丹) – or energy centre self-cultivation - differs between men and women because such training is designed to take into account the distinct psychological and physiological characteristics that define each gender. A Man is outwardly yang (阳) and inwardly yin (阴) – this is represented by the Li Trigram (离卦 – Li Gua):
ACW 24.3.2016
The theory behind ‘nei dan’ (内丹) – or energy centre self-cultivation - differs between men and women because such training is designed to take into account the distinct psychological and physiological characteristics that define each gender. A Man is outwardly yang (阳) and inwardly yin (阴) – this is represented by the Li Trigram (离卦 – Li Gua):
A woman is outwardly yin and inwardly yang – this is represented by the Kan Trigram (坎卦 – Kan Gua):
For a man, it is ‘jing’ (精) – or ‘essential nature’ - (as produced in seminal omission) that is the foundation, whilst for a woman the foundation is ‘xue’ (血) – or ‘blood’ (through which 'jing' is lost). As a consequence of this fundamental difference in gender construction, the emphasis of nei dan practice is different from the very beginning of the self-cultivation training, which is designed to achieve Immortality (仙术 – Xian Shu). The initial stage of nei dan training for women involves the cultivation of the physical body and its functionality (形 – Xing), before the ‘essence’ (元 – Yuan) can be refined. Therefore, a self-cultivating woman has to change the quality of qi (气) energy that flows through the body (particularly in the breast area), so that eventually the cycle of the ‘Red Dragon’ (赤龙 – Chi Long) i.e. ‘menstruation’ is cut-off, and the breasts are reduced in size (similar to that of a man). When these transformations are fully attained, then a woman may self-cultivate in exactly the same manner as a man. The teachings associated with Daoist self-cultivation for women state that if the ‘Golden Elixir’ (金丹 – Jin Dan) is to be achieved, then a woman practitioner must first discipline and cultivate the mind. As it is only through the cultivation of the mind that the functionality of the breasts (and nipple area) can be returned to the pure state of non-production and non-emission of milk (a process also referred to as [transforming] the ‘milk stream’ [乳溪 – Ru Xi] within female self-cultivation, through developing ‘vital force’ [炁 – Qi] through the concentrated effort associated with the meditative process). In the Daoist text entitled ‘Tai Yin Lian Xing’ (太阴炼形) or ‘Grand Female Cultivation of the Body’, it is stated that the vital force (qi) and the blood must be refined to reverse and stop the menstruation process (once this is achieved, the cultivation is then the same as for that of a man). When genuine vital force is gathered and refined, then the vital force will flow freely through all the energy channels in an unhindered manner. This is how women should begin their Daoist self-cultivation if they wish to attain Immortality.
Self-cultivation to attain Immortality for a man begins with the preventing of the loss of ‘jing’ or ‘essential nature’ through seminal emission, whilst for a woman it is a matter of not losing blood. This is the law of energy centre self-cultivation for both men and women. This practice centres around the concept of ‘retainment’ (中 – Zhong). If this training is applied correctly, then the health of men and women will improve dramatically as the ‘essence’ (性 – Xing) is strengthened and refined through the practice of ‘retainment’. In fact the disciplined practice of ‘retainment’ is the direct path to gaining good fortune from the permanent balancing of yin and yang. Cao Wenyi (曹文逸) says in his ‘灵源大道歌 (Ling Yuan Da Dao Ge) or ‘Spirit Source Great Way Song’ that both men and women practitioners should interpret the superior transmission of energy centre self-cultivation law, as evolving around regulating the inner (qi) flow so that the spiritual essence is revealed. Women possess a ‘yin’ essence body, and generally speaking are more likely to attain oneness with the Dao (成道 – Cheng Dao). If a woman practitioner can cultivate ‘foetal breathing’ (胎息 – Tai Xi), then the top aperture will open and consciousness will expand. This must happen if the ‘pre-natal’ (先天 – Xian Tian) state is to be achieved. If this training is pursued correctly, then a woman can attain awakening in 3 to 5 years, whereas a man will usually take 10 years to realise the same state. According to the text entitled ‘Kun Yuan Jing’ (坤元经) or ‘Earth Essence Classic’, the self-cultivation steps required for women to practice are as follows:
1) Matters to be noted when in meditation. When women enter the practice of seated meditation, they must lay down the ‘ten thousand’ concerns and calm the mind. A pure mind is attained by eradicating all desires. Through directed ‘intention’ (意 – Yi) the menstrual cycle comes to a natural conclusion, and the breasts (and nipples) become imbued with vital force (qi). Cross the hands to rub and knead the breasts (all over) 36 times. As the lower energy centre (丹田 - Dan Tian) is linked with the menstrual cycle – breathe gently in and out of the area (circulating qi energy) 24 times (virginal young women do not need to practice this rubbing and breathing exercise). With both hands on the breasts – reflect the energy back into the breast (through the nipple area which is a qi energy point). In this way the mind is naturally ‘stilled’ and becomes quiet. This process must continue until a profound emptiness is realised within the peace and tranquillity of the mind that becomes truly serene. In this non-knowing and non-feeling state, true vitality is roused. By directing qi energy into the lower energy centre, menstruation is brought to an end (through focusing qi flow up through the vaginal area and into the lower energy centre). This process strengthens the qi flow in the energy channels and prevents unwanted leakage through the various pressure points – this is how the true source is revealed within. The entire body is in a state of repose. Only when these instructions are truly understood can a woman practitioner sit in correct meditation.
2) Understanding the passing of time to transform the body. When a woman experiences menstruation over the month of January, this is divided in ‘ren’ (壬) water and ‘gui’ (癸) water (ren is the 9th divine-sky stem and gui is the 10th divine-sky stem). Ren water represents the ‘beginning’ of the menstruation cycle, whilst gui water represents the ‘end’ of the menstruation cycle 30 days later. This is the cycle from the 9th stem to the 10th stem – it stops in preparation to begin again. Knowing this to be the case, the practitioner should approach self-cultivation in a positive manner that builds qi energy with an intention to transform the body and its functionality. This requires discipline and self-determination. Only if these conditions are met will this method of self-cultivation be successful. If there are no frivolous actions, then the Red Dragon self-cultivation will be successful in a matter of days, with the mind becoming calm and tranquil, and the health improved dramatically. This is how qi energy is cultivated to transform the body: Correct preparation is essential so that the mind is focused and the body prepared before seated meditation begins. Incense is lit to create an environment where the mind is at rest and the body relaxed for the effective practice of seated meditation. Breathe deeply in and out of the lower energy centre, and focus the mind’s attention at the ‘shen shi’ (神室) or ‘Spirit Chamber’ – just behind the middle of the forehead. The qi energy must be directed so that the loss of menstrual blood is reversed and stopped. Within the lower energy centre, heat will be produced. Qi energy and blood integrate and stimulate one another so that vital force (炁 – Qi) is produced. This is a quick method for focusing ‘intention’ and qi in the seabed (海底 – Hai Di) or womb. The ‘intention’ of the mind directs the qi energy from just under the tail bone and up the spine to the top of head and into the ‘ni wan’ (泥丸) area of the brain. The ‘intention’ should focus on drawing qi energy up through the hips. The tongue should touch the roof of the mouth and saliva produced – which is then swallowed down. The breasts become saturated with vital force as an enhanced qi energy flows travels through the area transforming fluid and closing off the nipple area and preventing leakage. Once the leakage of the breasts has been stopped, the qi flow throughout all the energy channels in the body will become saturated with vital force and health will be radically improved throughout. Menstruation will cease permanently and true yin will suddenly manifest. Just as a fish sucks in water – all leakages will be stopped. By cultivating qi energy in this manner, the physical function of the body is transformed, and the natural essence revealed.
3) Cutting off the dragon at the root. A woman should use self-cultivation to uproot the dragon (or ‘menstrual process’). Firstly, this is achieved by focusing qi energy into the lower energy centre (dan tian) so that the vaginal and womb area becomes imbued with qi energy (by focusing the mind’s ‘intention’ at the qi stimulation point situated two inches below the naval). This is where external qi energy and internal qi energy converge and integrate into one substance. In the mouth is produced ample saliva and pure qi energy which should be swallowed and directed down into the lower dan tian. This qi energy is then circulated through the ‘Belt Channel’ (带脉 – Dai Mai) where it is transformed through ‘smelting’ (烹化 – Peng Hua). Simultaneously, the ‘calm’ and ‘still’ mind guards the essential nature (自然 – Zi Ran) whilst the production of the special saliva (玉液 – Yu Ye) or ‘Jade Fluid’ assists in the transformation of the essence of the physical body, and its biological processes. Secondly, the ‘intention’ is fixed on the ‘sea of blood’ (血海 – Xue Hai) energy channel, so that ordinary qi energy integrates with the blood flow and becomes vital force, which is directed up the all-encompassing Governing Vessel (督脉 – Du Mai) to the top of the head and into the Ni Wan area. Saliva flows down into the lower energy centre and from there transforms qi energy into vital force which is then circulated throughout the energy channels. This is the product of ‘smelting’ where by ordinary qi energy integrates with the blood flow and becomes vital force through the fire created through stopping leakages (of qi energy), correct breathing, intense concentration and maximised qi flow throughout the energy channels of the body. This process transforms the breasts so that an integrated qi energy (and vital force) flows through the entire body and the breast area inclusively, preventing qi energy and vital force from leaking from the breast through the nipple area. This is how the golden liquid is refined through a self-cultivation method that transforms the body and its functionality. Thirdly, after all of the above has been achieved (and not before) the menstruation process will cease. The cultivation of vital force in the sea of blood energy channel, takes control of the head of the dragon (and prevents a loss of qi energy through the menstrual process). If training persists carefully throughout the month, then by gui (the 10th divine-sky stem), health is improved a thousand-fold. This is because vital force (via the Governing Vessel) has been distributed throughout all the qi energy channels of the body. When this self-cultivation method is successful, it is referred to as ‘catching the tiger by the tail’ (擒虎尾 – Qin Hu Wei). A strong person can achieve this in two years, whilst a weak person will achieve this in three years.
4) Imbuing the health-building medicine. When a woman cuts-off the dragon (i.e. menstrual flow) she must then gather and imbue the positive effects through further self-cultivation. To do this the mind (and body) must be ‘still’, quiet and serene – this is the attainment of ‘empty ridge-pole’ (虚极 – Xu Ji). By concentrating the mind’s ‘attention’, ‘shen’ (神) is consolidated as vital force permeates the qi energy channels. By focusing ‘intent’ in the lower energy centre, a fire is generated that ‘refines’ qi energy into vital force, which is then transported up the spine to the top of the head. All attention is fixed in the lower abdomen and this becomes a place for self-cultivation through ‘smelting’, a process that prevents all leakage. This requires that qi energy is gathered in the heart and kidney area through self-cultivation – this generates a health giving external medicine (外药 – Wai Yao). This external medicine is further refined through self-cultivation, and is transformed into a health giving internal medicine (内药 – Nei Yao). Eventually this process produces a health giving great medicine (大药 – Da Yao). To achieve this, the esteemed practitioner of self-cultivation must sit quietly in ‘still’ meditation (静坐 – Jing Zuo) so that heat is generated within the lower energy centre. This enthuses the heart and kidney areas with an ample supply of nourishing qi. Qi energy is cultivated and refined in the lower energy centre and distributed around the body by first travelling up the Governing Vessel (synonymous with the spinal column) and then around the other energy channels of the body. As it travels up the Governing Vessel to the top of the head, the qi energy then drops down the front of the body through the Conception Vessel (任脉 – Ren Mai) and back into the lower energy centre – this process transforms qi energy into vital force. This must be a daily practice, so that by around one year of self-cultivation, the external medicine is gathered. Through a continued refinement of vital force in the lower centre of energy, vitality and life are increased (生机 – Sheng Ji) and subjected to further refinement. This smelting process generates further vitality that is then transformed into internal medicine.
5) Further refinement of that gathered in the lower energy centre. Correct self-cultivation develops the health giving internal medicine which should be directly gathered to prevent its loss (or dissipation). As breath enters the body (and is dropped into the lower energy centre) the true fire rises up to the heart, whilst true water rises to the kidneys and is heated. All is gathered and refined in the divine furnace (天火候 – Tian Huo Hou) as it circulates around the microcosmic orbit (小周 – Xiao Zhou). By ‘stilling’ the mind and focusing attention upon the breath, ‘lead’ (铅 – Qian) or ‘vitality’ is produced, as well as ‘mercury’ (汞 – Gong) or ‘spirit’ – both of which are produced in the furnace and then integrated through further heating. The breathing cycle must be deep, full and complete if this process is to be successful. Then the qi energy and all its developed attributes are circled through the microcosmic orbit, and through the furnace of transformation in the lower energy centre. The great medicine then rises up the Governing Vessel to the Ni Wan point in the head, and then drops down into the breast area where as vital force, it transforms the functionality of the breasts and prevents any further loss of qi energy through the nipple area. The great medicine is an integration of the external and internal medicine which signifies the realisation of the pre-natal state (先天 – Xian Tian).
6) How to attain foetal breathing through integration. Through the effort of self-cultivation, the great medicine is generated and circulated throughout the energy channels of the body. In the beginning, the divine sky and the broad earth intermingled to create life. This saw the integration of the expansive emptiness of shen with the vital force of qi energy. If attention is placed on the lower energy centre for ten months (whilst shen and vital force are circulated around the body), then foetal breathing (胎息 – Tai Xi) develops. This in turn, leads to the development of the immortal foetus (仙胎 – Xian Tai). Through correct intention whilst continuing to circulate qi energy, spirit (shen) expands and reveals the original source (yuan). Vital force (or qi energy integrated with blood flow) further integrates with shen – or an expansive emptiness that includes all things. At the right time the beginnings of the immortal embryo will form due to correct intention and the continuation of the smelting process. This requires qi energy circulation through the macrocosmic (大周 – Da Zhou) orbit and the divine furnace. The attitude should be like a chicken protecting an egg, or a dragon guarding a pearl. The immortal foetus develops in this manner. This is how post-natal breathing (后天呼吸 – Hou Tian Hu Xi) eventually transforms into pre-natal breathing (先天呼吸 – Xian Tian Hu Xi) – which is the true breathing that equates with immortal breathing. Immortal breathing leads to the integration of shen and the immortal foetus. The pre-natal state is dependent upon the mind securing a great ‘stillness’ (大定 – Da Ding) or ‘great serenity’ while the breath is virtually non-existence (whilst qi energy continues to be circulated without end).
7) After one hundred days, shen and vital force integrate and a great serenity is experienced, and the five internal organs become saturated with pure qi energy. This purified breath enters into, and nourishes the foetus. After one hundred days, the medicine achieved through self-cultivation, not only nourishes the five internal organs, but the resultant enhanced vital force becomes an important component for the realisation of the original essence (yuan). After a further one hundred days, the foetus continues to be nourished through correct breathing, as vital force integrates with shen and forms pure yang (阳纯 - Yang Chun) – this is the product of an expansive consciousness which has attained ‘stillness’. As a consequence, the foetus and shen mutually support one another. The cultivation of vital force and shen (or ‘spirit’) are the keys to all refinement. After three hundred days of self-cultivation, the foetus, shen and a serene mind should have been developed and firmly established. The integration of the foetus with shen reveals the original essence (yuan) as all are inter-related. At this point, all activity comes to an end (in both mind and body). The foetus, shen, vital force, and original essence are all part of the underlying essence of the physical body and conscious mind. This is why vital force (and developed and highly condensed qi energy) travels to the ni wan area of the head. This process consists of the lower energy centre where vital force is refined. The middle energy centre (in the solar plexus) is where vital force transforms into shen (or ‘spirit’) and the upper energy centre (synonymous with the ni wan) is where shen is transformed into the realisation of an all embracing empty space that contains all things. When you perceive a bright light or hear thunder and lightning, it is time for the immortal foetus to be born by moving it up through the lower, middle, and upper energy centres. At this point the mind is still and non-attentive, and the breath self-regulating, as contrived attention to detail is no longer required.
8) The correct way to gather attributes to become immortal. The immortal state is represented by shen (spirit) that has expanded beyond the confines of the physical skull. This is a true attribute of the baby, which must pass through three years of careful nurturing. After nine years – absolute yin is developed and the infant is mature. Stillness is the condition within which the foetus becomes a baby, and the baby becomes an infant. Initially the foetus and baby are held near to be nurtured, but as the baby matures, a sense of non-attachment develops. Shen (spirit) expands and becomes all-embracing, and the dao is understood to be both ‘empty’ and yet ‘inclusive’ of all things. This is how the realm of immortality is gradually achieved.
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Daoist internal self-cultivation is a developing research subject, and its academic achievements will help to promote progress in a number of related research fields such as philosophy, physiology, psychology, psychosomatic medicine, brain science, religion and the like.
Daojia, Qianfeng Prenatal School Lineage
Qianfeng Hermitage: Zhao Ming Wang
©opyright: Adrian Chan-Wyles (ShiDaDao) 2015.
Original Chinese Language Source Article:
内丹学注意到女子在心理与生理上与男子不同,男子外阳内阴为离卦,女子外阴内阳为坎卦;男子以精为基,女子以血为本。因之内丹功法在筑基入手功夫和初关仙术。男女有别。女子先炼形质,后炼本元,以乳房灵脂变化气质,斩断赤龙 ( 月经 ) ,使乳房缩如男子,再依男子功法依次修炼。丹家主张女子金丹先要收心养性,意守两乳间擅中穴 ( 亦名乳溪,乃女丹之炁穴 ) ,以“太阴炼形”之法炼血化炁,采血海 ( 子宫部,相当男丹下田 ) 中真炁上透炁穴弋擅中 ) 炼药以完成初关仙术。初关仙术男子修成不漏精,女子修成不漏经。男女丹法 . 要在一个“‘中”字,丹家在变化男女体质的命功上求其“中”,在性功上也求“中”。“中”即是阴阳造化的枢机。曹文逸《灵源大道歌》传上乘丹法,元和内运,男女皆可修习。女子体性阴柔,比男子更易成道。女丹只要修成胎息,玄关一窍展开,由后天转为先天,三年五载可抵男子十年之功。今据《坤元经》阐述女丹步骤:
( 一 ) 静养化悉。女子入坐时万缘放下,清心寡欲,意默血海,二目返照两乳中间炁穴。两手交叉捧乳揉摩三十六遍,自下田血海微微吸气二十四口 ( 童贞少女不必用揉吸之法 ) ,而后仍双手捧乳,回光照定炁穴。如此寂静自然,直至虚极静笃,不知不觉生机触动,丹田血海中有一缕清气升至炁穴。复凝神照定炁穴,元和内运,舒散周身,一片浑圆景象,方可下坐。
( 二 ) 知时炼形。女子月经一月一来,分为壬水、癸水。壬水生时,信先至,至癸水生,潮立至,经三十个时辰,潮将止未止之时,癸净壬现。丹家宜于信到时行化气养形之功,经止时行炼形和气之功。两日半行经赤龙正旺,不可妄行采炼,应安心静养为妙。化气养形之法:预先算定信至之期,焚香静坐,呼由丹田起意上照神室,吸由羔穴回返下笼血海,少刻觉生清气一缕上升炁穴,复引下血海,丹田生热,血化之气引动真一之炁,速回光聚气于海底,用意引过尾间,穿夹脊入泥丸,复透上胯,舌引生液,咽下重楼,至乳间炁穴运液化气,经两乳舒散周身百脉,以养形体。月经将止未止之期,真阴忽又发动,如鱼吸水,急照前法行炼形和气之功。
( 三 ) 斩龙立根。女子斩龙之功,一是内炼丹田与炁穴间之气,接乎外来之气,融成一片,并将口中所生津液和清气下咽丹田,并沿带脉运息烹化,静守自然,称玉液炼形之功。二是意照血海,炼液化炁,沿督脉过三关入泥丸,复化为津液滴下经重楼入炁穴,在炁穴烹液化气,经两乳流通全身,称金液炼形之功。三是信至潮未至前,采血海之气入炁穴炼化,称索龙头之功。四是癸尽千生之际,炼血海之气过尾间转督脉下降炁穴,舒散周身,称擒虎尾之功。如此壮者二年,弱者三年,经血由红而黄而白而无,赤龙斩断,乳头缩如男子,丹基始立。
( 四 ) 采取生药。女子斩龙功后继之采取之功。其功法即虚极静笃,凝神入炁穴,逆升头顶为进火,进火即为采取;顺降腹部为退符,退符即烹炼。先采心肾之气炼之促生外药;再采外药炼之引生内药;终采内药炼结而生大药。丹士静坐觉丹田温热,心肾之气足,采取穿尾间沿督脉、任脉入炁穴复降丹田,日日加工,一年之间 . 便有生外药之象。丹士一觉药生炁到,趁其生机,采而聚之,转河车炼之,后藏于丹田,温养日久,力一生内药。
( 五 ) 炼结还丹。女子觉生内药,速采而勿失 . 即行炼结之功。吸降心中真火以养之,呼升肾中真水以温之,子前进火,午后退符,行小周天火候,渐聚渐凝。当炼之时,定息运气以抽铅,行火炼形以添汞,以呼吸轮转,河车搬运,周天火候不差,先天大药结成紫金丹,方可移炉换鼎。大药穿尾间沿督脉经泥丸降至乳间炁穴,还乎先天本位,称作还丹。
( 六 ) 会合胎息。还丹功成,大药入炁穴,先行乾坤交媾,神炁会合之法,后以胎息养仙胎,为十月温养之功。法以真意引元神下入炁穴,和元炁在炁穴内相包归一,意引息运,交合融化,结成珠胎。然后行大周天火候,如鸡抱卵,如龙养珠,静养胎中生息。而后化后天呼吸为先天呼吸 . 化真息为胎息,以胎息养胎神 . 于先天大定之中,气息悠悠绵绵,觉有终无。
( 七 ) 调养出神。百日神炁大定,再以五脏真气,随息入胎中凝炼,百日药力渐全,为五气朝元之功。复加百日,化去胎中之息,炁化为神,神定阳纯,胎神坚固,炼炁化神之功全。三百日胎神大定,谓之胎圆神全,又称灭尽定,至此须将此太和元灵真性之胎神,由炁穴上移泥丸宫。阳神在泥丸宫盘结数周,冲开天门,霞光三耀,电闪雷鸣,婴儿出胎。
( 八 ) 合道成仙。阳神出壳,婴儿现形,须经三年哺乳,九年绝阴,方始成熟。初出婴儿幼嫩,恐迷失不返,应即放即收,渐放渐远,炼到出在定中,入在定中,婴儿老成,得大神通,还虚合道,渐至仙人境界。
内丹学是一门正待研究的学科,它的学术成果,将有助于促进哲学、生理心理学、心身医学、脑科学、宗教学等多种研究领域的进展。
道家千峰先天派:千峰草堂:赵明旺
Self-cultivation to attain Immortality for a man begins with the preventing of the loss of ‘jing’ or ‘essential nature’ through seminal emission, whilst for a woman it is a matter of not losing blood. This is the law of energy centre self-cultivation for both men and women. This practice centres around the concept of ‘retainment’ (中 – Zhong). If this training is applied correctly, then the health of men and women will improve dramatically as the ‘essence’ (性 – Xing) is strengthened and refined through the practice of ‘retainment’. In fact the disciplined practice of ‘retainment’ is the direct path to gaining good fortune from the permanent balancing of yin and yang. Cao Wenyi (曹文逸) says in his ‘灵源大道歌 (Ling Yuan Da Dao Ge) or ‘Spirit Source Great Way Song’ that both men and women practitioners should interpret the superior transmission of energy centre self-cultivation law, as evolving around regulating the inner (qi) flow so that the spiritual essence is revealed. Women possess a ‘yin’ essence body, and generally speaking are more likely to attain oneness with the Dao (成道 – Cheng Dao). If a woman practitioner can cultivate ‘foetal breathing’ (胎息 – Tai Xi), then the top aperture will open and consciousness will expand. This must happen if the ‘pre-natal’ (先天 – Xian Tian) state is to be achieved. If this training is pursued correctly, then a woman can attain awakening in 3 to 5 years, whereas a man will usually take 10 years to realise the same state. According to the text entitled ‘Kun Yuan Jing’ (坤元经) or ‘Earth Essence Classic’, the self-cultivation steps required for women to practice are as follows:
1) Matters to be noted when in meditation. When women enter the practice of seated meditation, they must lay down the ‘ten thousand’ concerns and calm the mind. A pure mind is attained by eradicating all desires. Through directed ‘intention’ (意 – Yi) the menstrual cycle comes to a natural conclusion, and the breasts (and nipples) become imbued with vital force (qi). Cross the hands to rub and knead the breasts (all over) 36 times. As the lower energy centre (丹田 - Dan Tian) is linked with the menstrual cycle – breathe gently in and out of the area (circulating qi energy) 24 times (virginal young women do not need to practice this rubbing and breathing exercise). With both hands on the breasts – reflect the energy back into the breast (through the nipple area which is a qi energy point). In this way the mind is naturally ‘stilled’ and becomes quiet. This process must continue until a profound emptiness is realised within the peace and tranquillity of the mind that becomes truly serene. In this non-knowing and non-feeling state, true vitality is roused. By directing qi energy into the lower energy centre, menstruation is brought to an end (through focusing qi flow up through the vaginal area and into the lower energy centre). This process strengthens the qi flow in the energy channels and prevents unwanted leakage through the various pressure points – this is how the true source is revealed within. The entire body is in a state of repose. Only when these instructions are truly understood can a woman practitioner sit in correct meditation.
2) Understanding the passing of time to transform the body. When a woman experiences menstruation over the month of January, this is divided in ‘ren’ (壬) water and ‘gui’ (癸) water (ren is the 9th divine-sky stem and gui is the 10th divine-sky stem). Ren water represents the ‘beginning’ of the menstruation cycle, whilst gui water represents the ‘end’ of the menstruation cycle 30 days later. This is the cycle from the 9th stem to the 10th stem – it stops in preparation to begin again. Knowing this to be the case, the practitioner should approach self-cultivation in a positive manner that builds qi energy with an intention to transform the body and its functionality. This requires discipline and self-determination. Only if these conditions are met will this method of self-cultivation be successful. If there are no frivolous actions, then the Red Dragon self-cultivation will be successful in a matter of days, with the mind becoming calm and tranquil, and the health improved dramatically. This is how qi energy is cultivated to transform the body: Correct preparation is essential so that the mind is focused and the body prepared before seated meditation begins. Incense is lit to create an environment where the mind is at rest and the body relaxed for the effective practice of seated meditation. Breathe deeply in and out of the lower energy centre, and focus the mind’s attention at the ‘shen shi’ (神室) or ‘Spirit Chamber’ – just behind the middle of the forehead. The qi energy must be directed so that the loss of menstrual blood is reversed and stopped. Within the lower energy centre, heat will be produced. Qi energy and blood integrate and stimulate one another so that vital force (炁 – Qi) is produced. This is a quick method for focusing ‘intention’ and qi in the seabed (海底 – Hai Di) or womb. The ‘intention’ of the mind directs the qi energy from just under the tail bone and up the spine to the top of head and into the ‘ni wan’ (泥丸) area of the brain. The ‘intention’ should focus on drawing qi energy up through the hips. The tongue should touch the roof of the mouth and saliva produced – which is then swallowed down. The breasts become saturated with vital force as an enhanced qi energy flows travels through the area transforming fluid and closing off the nipple area and preventing leakage. Once the leakage of the breasts has been stopped, the qi flow throughout all the energy channels in the body will become saturated with vital force and health will be radically improved throughout. Menstruation will cease permanently and true yin will suddenly manifest. Just as a fish sucks in water – all leakages will be stopped. By cultivating qi energy in this manner, the physical function of the body is transformed, and the natural essence revealed.
3) Cutting off the dragon at the root. A woman should use self-cultivation to uproot the dragon (or ‘menstrual process’). Firstly, this is achieved by focusing qi energy into the lower energy centre (dan tian) so that the vaginal and womb area becomes imbued with qi energy (by focusing the mind’s ‘intention’ at the qi stimulation point situated two inches below the naval). This is where external qi energy and internal qi energy converge and integrate into one substance. In the mouth is produced ample saliva and pure qi energy which should be swallowed and directed down into the lower dan tian. This qi energy is then circulated through the ‘Belt Channel’ (带脉 – Dai Mai) where it is transformed through ‘smelting’ (烹化 – Peng Hua). Simultaneously, the ‘calm’ and ‘still’ mind guards the essential nature (自然 – Zi Ran) whilst the production of the special saliva (玉液 – Yu Ye) or ‘Jade Fluid’ assists in the transformation of the essence of the physical body, and its biological processes. Secondly, the ‘intention’ is fixed on the ‘sea of blood’ (血海 – Xue Hai) energy channel, so that ordinary qi energy integrates with the blood flow and becomes vital force, which is directed up the all-encompassing Governing Vessel (督脉 – Du Mai) to the top of the head and into the Ni Wan area. Saliva flows down into the lower energy centre and from there transforms qi energy into vital force which is then circulated throughout the energy channels. This is the product of ‘smelting’ where by ordinary qi energy integrates with the blood flow and becomes vital force through the fire created through stopping leakages (of qi energy), correct breathing, intense concentration and maximised qi flow throughout the energy channels of the body. This process transforms the breasts so that an integrated qi energy (and vital force) flows through the entire body and the breast area inclusively, preventing qi energy and vital force from leaking from the breast through the nipple area. This is how the golden liquid is refined through a self-cultivation method that transforms the body and its functionality. Thirdly, after all of the above has been achieved (and not before) the menstruation process will cease. The cultivation of vital force in the sea of blood energy channel, takes control of the head of the dragon (and prevents a loss of qi energy through the menstrual process). If training persists carefully throughout the month, then by gui (the 10th divine-sky stem), health is improved a thousand-fold. This is because vital force (via the Governing Vessel) has been distributed throughout all the qi energy channels of the body. When this self-cultivation method is successful, it is referred to as ‘catching the tiger by the tail’ (擒虎尾 – Qin Hu Wei). A strong person can achieve this in two years, whilst a weak person will achieve this in three years.
4) Imbuing the health-building medicine. When a woman cuts-off the dragon (i.e. menstrual flow) she must then gather and imbue the positive effects through further self-cultivation. To do this the mind (and body) must be ‘still’, quiet and serene – this is the attainment of ‘empty ridge-pole’ (虚极 – Xu Ji). By concentrating the mind’s ‘attention’, ‘shen’ (神) is consolidated as vital force permeates the qi energy channels. By focusing ‘intent’ in the lower energy centre, a fire is generated that ‘refines’ qi energy into vital force, which is then transported up the spine to the top of the head. All attention is fixed in the lower abdomen and this becomes a place for self-cultivation through ‘smelting’, a process that prevents all leakage. This requires that qi energy is gathered in the heart and kidney area through self-cultivation – this generates a health giving external medicine (外药 – Wai Yao). This external medicine is further refined through self-cultivation, and is transformed into a health giving internal medicine (内药 – Nei Yao). Eventually this process produces a health giving great medicine (大药 – Da Yao). To achieve this, the esteemed practitioner of self-cultivation must sit quietly in ‘still’ meditation (静坐 – Jing Zuo) so that heat is generated within the lower energy centre. This enthuses the heart and kidney areas with an ample supply of nourishing qi. Qi energy is cultivated and refined in the lower energy centre and distributed around the body by first travelling up the Governing Vessel (synonymous with the spinal column) and then around the other energy channels of the body. As it travels up the Governing Vessel to the top of the head, the qi energy then drops down the front of the body through the Conception Vessel (任脉 – Ren Mai) and back into the lower energy centre – this process transforms qi energy into vital force. This must be a daily practice, so that by around one year of self-cultivation, the external medicine is gathered. Through a continued refinement of vital force in the lower centre of energy, vitality and life are increased (生机 – Sheng Ji) and subjected to further refinement. This smelting process generates further vitality that is then transformed into internal medicine.
5) Further refinement of that gathered in the lower energy centre. Correct self-cultivation develops the health giving internal medicine which should be directly gathered to prevent its loss (or dissipation). As breath enters the body (and is dropped into the lower energy centre) the true fire rises up to the heart, whilst true water rises to the kidneys and is heated. All is gathered and refined in the divine furnace (天火候 – Tian Huo Hou) as it circulates around the microcosmic orbit (小周 – Xiao Zhou). By ‘stilling’ the mind and focusing attention upon the breath, ‘lead’ (铅 – Qian) or ‘vitality’ is produced, as well as ‘mercury’ (汞 – Gong) or ‘spirit’ – both of which are produced in the furnace and then integrated through further heating. The breathing cycle must be deep, full and complete if this process is to be successful. Then the qi energy and all its developed attributes are circled through the microcosmic orbit, and through the furnace of transformation in the lower energy centre. The great medicine then rises up the Governing Vessel to the Ni Wan point in the head, and then drops down into the breast area where as vital force, it transforms the functionality of the breasts and prevents any further loss of qi energy through the nipple area. The great medicine is an integration of the external and internal medicine which signifies the realisation of the pre-natal state (先天 – Xian Tian).
6) How to attain foetal breathing through integration. Through the effort of self-cultivation, the great medicine is generated and circulated throughout the energy channels of the body. In the beginning, the divine sky and the broad earth intermingled to create life. This saw the integration of the expansive emptiness of shen with the vital force of qi energy. If attention is placed on the lower energy centre for ten months (whilst shen and vital force are circulated around the body), then foetal breathing (胎息 – Tai Xi) develops. This in turn, leads to the development of the immortal foetus (仙胎 – Xian Tai). Through correct intention whilst continuing to circulate qi energy, spirit (shen) expands and reveals the original source (yuan). Vital force (or qi energy integrated with blood flow) further integrates with shen – or an expansive emptiness that includes all things. At the right time the beginnings of the immortal embryo will form due to correct intention and the continuation of the smelting process. This requires qi energy circulation through the macrocosmic (大周 – Da Zhou) orbit and the divine furnace. The attitude should be like a chicken protecting an egg, or a dragon guarding a pearl. The immortal foetus develops in this manner. This is how post-natal breathing (后天呼吸 – Hou Tian Hu Xi) eventually transforms into pre-natal breathing (先天呼吸 – Xian Tian Hu Xi) – which is the true breathing that equates with immortal breathing. Immortal breathing leads to the integration of shen and the immortal foetus. The pre-natal state is dependent upon the mind securing a great ‘stillness’ (大定 – Da Ding) or ‘great serenity’ while the breath is virtually non-existence (whilst qi energy continues to be circulated without end).
7) After one hundred days, shen and vital force integrate and a great serenity is experienced, and the five internal organs become saturated with pure qi energy. This purified breath enters into, and nourishes the foetus. After one hundred days, the medicine achieved through self-cultivation, not only nourishes the five internal organs, but the resultant enhanced vital force becomes an important component for the realisation of the original essence (yuan). After a further one hundred days, the foetus continues to be nourished through correct breathing, as vital force integrates with shen and forms pure yang (阳纯 - Yang Chun) – this is the product of an expansive consciousness which has attained ‘stillness’. As a consequence, the foetus and shen mutually support one another. The cultivation of vital force and shen (or ‘spirit’) are the keys to all refinement. After three hundred days of self-cultivation, the foetus, shen and a serene mind should have been developed and firmly established. The integration of the foetus with shen reveals the original essence (yuan) as all are inter-related. At this point, all activity comes to an end (in both mind and body). The foetus, shen, vital force, and original essence are all part of the underlying essence of the physical body and conscious mind. This is why vital force (and developed and highly condensed qi energy) travels to the ni wan area of the head. This process consists of the lower energy centre where vital force is refined. The middle energy centre (in the solar plexus) is where vital force transforms into shen (or ‘spirit’) and the upper energy centre (synonymous with the ni wan) is where shen is transformed into the realisation of an all embracing empty space that contains all things. When you perceive a bright light or hear thunder and lightning, it is time for the immortal foetus to be born by moving it up through the lower, middle, and upper energy centres. At this point the mind is still and non-attentive, and the breath self-regulating, as contrived attention to detail is no longer required.
8) The correct way to gather attributes to become immortal. The immortal state is represented by shen (spirit) that has expanded beyond the confines of the physical skull. This is a true attribute of the baby, which must pass through three years of careful nurturing. After nine years – absolute yin is developed and the infant is mature. Stillness is the condition within which the foetus becomes a baby, and the baby becomes an infant. Initially the foetus and baby are held near to be nurtured, but as the baby matures, a sense of non-attachment develops. Shen (spirit) expands and becomes all-embracing, and the dao is understood to be both ‘empty’ and yet ‘inclusive’ of all things. This is how the realm of immortality is gradually achieved.
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Daoist internal self-cultivation is a developing research subject, and its academic achievements will help to promote progress in a number of related research fields such as philosophy, physiology, psychology, psychosomatic medicine, brain science, religion and the like.
Daojia, Qianfeng Prenatal School Lineage
Qianfeng Hermitage: Zhao Ming Wang
©opyright: Adrian Chan-Wyles (ShiDaDao) 2015.
Original Chinese Language Source Article:
内丹学注意到女子在心理与生理上与男子不同,男子外阳内阴为离卦,女子外阴内阳为坎卦;男子以精为基,女子以血为本。因之内丹功法在筑基入手功夫和初关仙术。男女有别。女子先炼形质,后炼本元,以乳房灵脂变化气质,斩断赤龙 ( 月经 ) ,使乳房缩如男子,再依男子功法依次修炼。丹家主张女子金丹先要收心养性,意守两乳间擅中穴 ( 亦名乳溪,乃女丹之炁穴 ) ,以“太阴炼形”之法炼血化炁,采血海 ( 子宫部,相当男丹下田 ) 中真炁上透炁穴弋擅中 ) 炼药以完成初关仙术。初关仙术男子修成不漏精,女子修成不漏经。男女丹法 . 要在一个“‘中”字,丹家在变化男女体质的命功上求其“中”,在性功上也求“中”。“中”即是阴阳造化的枢机。曹文逸《灵源大道歌》传上乘丹法,元和内运,男女皆可修习。女子体性阴柔,比男子更易成道。女丹只要修成胎息,玄关一窍展开,由后天转为先天,三年五载可抵男子十年之功。今据《坤元经》阐述女丹步骤:
( 一 ) 静养化悉。女子入坐时万缘放下,清心寡欲,意默血海,二目返照两乳中间炁穴。两手交叉捧乳揉摩三十六遍,自下田血海微微吸气二十四口 ( 童贞少女不必用揉吸之法 ) ,而后仍双手捧乳,回光照定炁穴。如此寂静自然,直至虚极静笃,不知不觉生机触动,丹田血海中有一缕清气升至炁穴。复凝神照定炁穴,元和内运,舒散周身,一片浑圆景象,方可下坐。
( 二 ) 知时炼形。女子月经一月一来,分为壬水、癸水。壬水生时,信先至,至癸水生,潮立至,经三十个时辰,潮将止未止之时,癸净壬现。丹家宜于信到时行化气养形之功,经止时行炼形和气之功。两日半行经赤龙正旺,不可妄行采炼,应安心静养为妙。化气养形之法:预先算定信至之期,焚香静坐,呼由丹田起意上照神室,吸由羔穴回返下笼血海,少刻觉生清气一缕上升炁穴,复引下血海,丹田生热,血化之气引动真一之炁,速回光聚气于海底,用意引过尾间,穿夹脊入泥丸,复透上胯,舌引生液,咽下重楼,至乳间炁穴运液化气,经两乳舒散周身百脉,以养形体。月经将止未止之期,真阴忽又发动,如鱼吸水,急照前法行炼形和气之功。
( 三 ) 斩龙立根。女子斩龙之功,一是内炼丹田与炁穴间之气,接乎外来之气,融成一片,并将口中所生津液和清气下咽丹田,并沿带脉运息烹化,静守自然,称玉液炼形之功。二是意照血海,炼液化炁,沿督脉过三关入泥丸,复化为津液滴下经重楼入炁穴,在炁穴烹液化气,经两乳流通全身,称金液炼形之功。三是信至潮未至前,采血海之气入炁穴炼化,称索龙头之功。四是癸尽千生之际,炼血海之气过尾间转督脉下降炁穴,舒散周身,称擒虎尾之功。如此壮者二年,弱者三年,经血由红而黄而白而无,赤龙斩断,乳头缩如男子,丹基始立。
( 四 ) 采取生药。女子斩龙功后继之采取之功。其功法即虚极静笃,凝神入炁穴,逆升头顶为进火,进火即为采取;顺降腹部为退符,退符即烹炼。先采心肾之气炼之促生外药;再采外药炼之引生内药;终采内药炼结而生大药。丹士静坐觉丹田温热,心肾之气足,采取穿尾间沿督脉、任脉入炁穴复降丹田,日日加工,一年之间 . 便有生外药之象。丹士一觉药生炁到,趁其生机,采而聚之,转河车炼之,后藏于丹田,温养日久,力一生内药。
( 五 ) 炼结还丹。女子觉生内药,速采而勿失 . 即行炼结之功。吸降心中真火以养之,呼升肾中真水以温之,子前进火,午后退符,行小周天火候,渐聚渐凝。当炼之时,定息运气以抽铅,行火炼形以添汞,以呼吸轮转,河车搬运,周天火候不差,先天大药结成紫金丹,方可移炉换鼎。大药穿尾间沿督脉经泥丸降至乳间炁穴,还乎先天本位,称作还丹。
( 六 ) 会合胎息。还丹功成,大药入炁穴,先行乾坤交媾,神炁会合之法,后以胎息养仙胎,为十月温养之功。法以真意引元神下入炁穴,和元炁在炁穴内相包归一,意引息运,交合融化,结成珠胎。然后行大周天火候,如鸡抱卵,如龙养珠,静养胎中生息。而后化后天呼吸为先天呼吸 . 化真息为胎息,以胎息养胎神 . 于先天大定之中,气息悠悠绵绵,觉有终无。
( 七 ) 调养出神。百日神炁大定,再以五脏真气,随息入胎中凝炼,百日药力渐全,为五气朝元之功。复加百日,化去胎中之息,炁化为神,神定阳纯,胎神坚固,炼炁化神之功全。三百日胎神大定,谓之胎圆神全,又称灭尽定,至此须将此太和元灵真性之胎神,由炁穴上移泥丸宫。阳神在泥丸宫盘结数周,冲开天门,霞光三耀,电闪雷鸣,婴儿出胎。
( 八 ) 合道成仙。阳神出壳,婴儿现形,须经三年哺乳,九年绝阴,方始成熟。初出婴儿幼嫩,恐迷失不返,应即放即收,渐放渐远,炼到出在定中,入在定中,婴儿老成,得大神通,还虚合道,渐至仙人境界。
内丹学是一门正待研究的学科,它的学术成果,将有助于促进哲学、生理心理学、心身医学、脑科学、宗教学等多种研究领域的进展。
道家千峰先天派:千峰草堂:赵明旺