All of the ancient, traditional, and indigenous healing systems in the world recognize and use the concept of vital energy as a core element of their methods. In India it is called "Prana." In China it is called "Chi." In Japan it is called "Ki." Among Kung bushmen it is called "Boiling Energy." The Kahuna of Hawaii and Polynesia call it "Mana." The list goes on. According to the Shaman, healing does not take place unless there is energy present and one does not remain healthy and live a long life unless he/she has a high reserve of vital energy.
This same "Vital Energy" is also associated with the possession of magical powers, clairvoyance, the power to heal, and the special powers possessed by martial arts masters. The knowledge of this force and the methods of acquiring and directing it has traditionally been among the most protected secrets of our world both ancient and modern.
Much knowledge has been gathered by investigators and placed in the public domain, but accomplished masters are rare. This is in part because mastering these methods is difficult, or is perceived to be difficult. It is also in part because nearly every element of our social attitudes and every paradigm of modern culture, denies, undermines, or belittles these concepts. Most find it difficult to overcome their social programming.
Still, for those with the inclination to pursue this knowledge, even modest efforts produce measurable results. For those who pursue this study with determination and passion, the journey can be life transforming.
First, here are a few sources of information. For information on the Chinese traditions, the origins of Chi Kung or Qi Gong, there are two authors who have labored to bring these formerly secret techniques to the west in the form of books in English or English translations of Chinese texts. One is Dr. Yang Jwing Ming. He was born in Taiwan and studied Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and related arts under numerous Chinese Masters. He also has an M.S. in Physics from Taiwan and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University. In 1984, he gave up his engineering career to devote his life to the writing, research, and teaching the Chinese martial and related arts. Another author and teacher of note is Mantak Chia.
These books will give you enough direction to enable you to use and apply these concepts effectively and with minimum complexity.
The Root of Chinese Qigong : Secrets for Health, Longevity & Enlightenment by Yang Jwing-Ming This book is a complete reference for all levels of Qigong practice. Qigong promotes longevity, health, and spiritual development. The author presents an in-depth look at Qigong theory and clearly discusses the keys to successful training and practice. This book contains 76 photos & illustrations.
Awaken Healing Energy Through Tao by Mantak Chia This book clearly describes two meditation exercises to improve the flow of chi through the energy circuits in the body. The first involves sending positive energy to your internal organs and other structures so that they can function better. The second is the "microcosmic orbit," a very ancient practice which moves energy in a circular motion up the spine, over the head, down the front of the body, and back up the spine. At the end of this exercise the chi is then focused in the Tan Tien center, right below the navel. The microcosmic orbit differs from the Hatha Yoga practice of raising the kundalini energy up the spine in that in the Taoist practice you always bring the energy back down, thus grounding it. Much of the purported danger in these sorts of energy exercises comes from leaving the energy "raised," which sometimes happens in Yoga practice.
Ancient Secret of the Fountain of Youth: Book 1 by Peter Kelder, Bernie S. Siegel Hidden in the remote reaches of the Himalayan mountains generations of Tibetan monks have passed down a series of exercises with mystical, age-reversing properties. Known as the Tibetan Rites of Rejuvenation or the Five Rites, these once-secret exercises are now available to Westerners in this book. Peter Kelder's book begins with an account of his own introduction to the rites by way of Colonel Bradford, a mysterious retired British army officer who learned of the rites while journeying high up in the Himalayas. This book then offers practical instructions for each of the five rites, which resemble yoga postures. Taking just minutes a day to perform, the benefits for practitioners have included increased energy, weight loss, better memory, new hair growth, pain relief, better digestion, and just feeling younger. Many individuals have reported dramatic success from using these exercises. There is a sixth exercise or rite which offers superhuman powers. It requires that the practitioner channel his/her sexual energy into a Spiritual rather than physical expression.
Secret Science Behind Miracles by Max Freedom Long This is a detective story of the recovery of ancient knowledge that was nearly lost. The Kahuna had a practical, pragmatic working system of magic. To them miraculous healing and mind over matter phenomenon were "normal" and they had a science that explained and modeled it all. Max Freedom Longs decoding of their science helps to explain the modern sciences of psychology, neurolinguistic programming, remote viewing, etc. ......and it reaches beyong them.....far beyond.
With regard to health and healing, a great deal can be accomplished with dietary change, specific nutritional support, life style modification, and exercise. These measures provide a good material base, but far greater results can be achieved with a conscious application of the principles of vital energy. The books suggested should be interesting and helpful to virtually everyone and offer a good introduction to this whole field.
In contemporary times, it is interesting to note that in China entire hospitals are devoted to treating every known disease and illness with Qi Gong only. In the west, the field of "Energy Medicine" is gaining more recognition and respect.
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