The practice of seated meditation, known as “Zuògāng,” is the most prevalent method of spiritual cultivation. Prior to assuming the seated posture, it is imperative to complete bodily functions, perform ablutions, and avoid strenuous activities. Optimal conditions include a well-ventilated and pristine environment, steering clear of the hours of Mao (5:00-7:00 in the morning) and You (5:00-7:00 in the afternoon). It is advisable to choose the midnight hour (between 22:30 and 00:30) for meditation, facing towards the north. The posture during meditation may vary, from the loose-legged to the single or double lotus positions, or even sitting on a chair, yet it is crucial to maintain proper alignment, with the body erect and the head held high, while relaxing the muscles, especially the shoulders. When practicing alone, the posture assumes paramount importance. The presence of a sizable mirror in the practice space proves beneficial at times. It allows for a contemplative gaze, aiding in refining one’s form. The alignment of the tip of the nose with the philtrum, with eyes gazing towards the nose and the nose towards the navel, signifies harmonization. Any deviation suggests a misalignment of Qi, manifesting as bodily or cranial inclination. A downward tilting of the head indicates deficiency in Yang Qi. Some practitioners experience a subtle drooping of the head shortly after entering a state of tranquility, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a sense of loftiness. Imbalance in the lateral disposition of the head and body disrupts the harmonious flow of Qi, leading to disharmony between Yin and Yang. Prior to commencing the practice, while relaxing the skeletal structure and the waist is crucial, the significance of the shoulders cannot be understated. The Shoulder Well points on both shoulders serve as the masters of one’s spiritual essence, playing a pivotal role in balancing the left and right sides of the body. In Daoist philosophy, the practice of “gazing at the nose, and the nose at the navel” embodies the geometric principle of aligning three points into a straight line, which helps maintain bodily balance. Even if one’s facial features are naturally symmetrical, sitting improperly can cause the nose to appear slightly askew and the breath to be obstructed, leading to discomfort. This discomfort arises from the stifled breath, and one must consciously adjust to correct it, often by overcorrecting the posture. For instance, if the body leans to the left, the inner intention must consciously incline the body slightly to the right to effectively rectify the deviation. The practice requires a focused gaze, with the eyes fixed upon the tip of the nose. This fixation serves to align the gaze and regulate the flow of internal energy through the meridians connected to the vital center. Hence, as the eyes rest upon the nose, one follows the inhalation and exhalation, directing the attention downward to the navel. In preceding chapters, references have been made to the “bag and baggage” and the techniques of breath regulation. We employ a method known as the “ascending and descending breath control,” wherein consciousness accompanies the breath’s journey through the vital centers. This method originates from the esoteric teachings within the mnemonic verse: “The true person dwells in the depths, navigating the rules of existence.” Through seated meditation and breath regulation, one naturally accumulates the elixir within the “jade pond,” as described in the Huangting Classic: “The mouth is likened to a jade pond of supreme harmony, where the elixir gathers over time, impervious to calamities. Externally, the breath carries the fragrance of orchids, dispelling myriad evils and refining the countenance.” With the accumulation of elixir, one must retain the saliva within, until the breath reaches the diaphragm, whereupon it is gradually swallowed in three gentle gulps. This method of regulating breath involves adjusting the pulses within, where if the pulse is inclined towards desire, it must be settled within the cauldron first, activating the bladder, then moving to the middle of the palate. The qi is then guided downwards along the Ren meridian, traversing the inner cavity. The pulse, however, cannot oscillate back and forth; the perceived pulsation in the perineum is the result of the pulse’s activity. Therefore, the pulse must be harmonized, which is the essence of breath regulation. When yang is active, movement can be spontaneous, utilizing the mnemonic to guide during the sitting practice. The mnemonic held in the hands during the Sitting Gong is crucial and must not be loosened. Many practitioners, as they progress, tend to slacken their hand gestures, indicating a dispersion of inner intent. Despite occasionally entering a trance-like state during practice, mental clarity must be maintained, avoiding confusion. Hence, a firm grasp is imperative, ensuring the mnemonic remains intact. Firmly holding the mnemonic and maintaining awareness of the internal energy’s ascent and descent are essential aspects of practice, ultimately leading to the natural state of being. As Master Zhongli Quan said: “Hold firmly, contemplate tranquility, and cultivate the spirit.” The practice of the Subsidiary Noon: Place the left thumb over the tip of the left middle finger to find the Meridian of Noon; then, with the right thumb, press against the base of the left ring finger to locate the Meridian of Subsidiary. The mnemonic goes: “First the innate weather, then the acquired weather; those who attain it often seem intoxicated.” The Golden Light Mantra: Detailed instructions can be found in the Divine Thunder Method section. When counting time, it is imperative to recite the mantra seven times consecutively, each iteration synchronized with the celestial movements of the Big Dipper. Finally, conclude with the tracing of one’s life’s horizontal lines, which serves as an inner shield, harnessing the protective energies of the Northern Star to ward off malevolent spirits and dispel inner demons.
The Celestial Harmony: Embracing the Southern Esoteric Art of Sit-Gang Stance
