Li TaoRen

Chen style is the oldest, and still a bit more martial. Yang style is the more popular, but has many variations. Most instructors will let you sit in or try a class for free. Talk to the instructor and students before joining, and you will get an idea if it is a good fit. some people teach from simply a health perspective, and some offer the martial component. The martial component is beneficial in learning the postures and form correctly, the bottom line is Taiji(ultimate) Quan(boxing) is first and foremost a (internal)martial art. Short forms are ok, but make sure the teacher has years of experience, and shares your philosophy to some extent. Also, is the teacher and students in good health? I went to a Taoist Taiji school once, and the instructor had to stop and remind himself what to do next, and the students had sore knees and ankles from improper postures. if one move is meant to be an arm grapple(lu) it shouldn't look like they are dancing with a watermelon. You can always change teachers, study as well. I can reccomend one book, if you can find it... the Tao of Tai-Chi Chuan by Jou, Tsung Hwa. Do not even try to learn a form from books, but use them to refine and augment your practice.(

i guess it depends how you look at it. If the goal is Enlightenment, it is a way of life; not only meditation but overall lifestyle and attitudes- you are right. Many meditation and qigong masters would advise a regular Joe to practice twice daily for about 30 minutes. I myself have had excellent results this way. Attempting to sit for hours on end can often do more harm than good. Ive seen alot of monks sit for long periods, but much of that time was spent chanting and prayer. Quality beats quantity.

Meditative experiences wax and wane as do all things. Every time is different. Also you may on some level have the desire to relive the experience of the brow light. It may have seemed profound as a new experience, so remind yourself not to cling to it. Such sensations are, however a sign that your relaxation and focus are deepening and that your mind entered the Jhanas or contemplation. Everytime you practice, remind yourself of the idea of the uncarved block- no clinging to past, and no expectations. Have fun! Contemplation is wonderful, and will bring you many benefits.

Blacktiger. A problem many people have is attempting to diagnose themselves with little knowledge. TCM diagnosis is very complex and unless you are schooled it is wise to consult a TCM doctor. Ive studied TCM and Medical Qigong for many years and have made mistakes early on as well. You may think the jing is depleated, but nocturnal emission is a sign of abundant jing. So the problem likely lies in transformation and balance. Also, we all are impatient and want to practice these obscure sexual or complex qigong excercises. It is important to learn to meditate first! Practice some simple external qigong and postures, and when you have some balance you can undertake some more advanced practice. When we read a couple of books and go off on our own, we don't necessarily have all the info we need. We make modifications and end up suffering from Qi deviations. Sleep well, eat well, excercise, be positive and know your limitations and Im sure you will do fine.

Alpha... Everyone has different experiences in meditation. Some have powerful so-called visions and some do not. If you are looking to experience benefits in your daily life consistancy is key. Plain and simple one pointed focus for a beginner whether it is breath or an internal object. There are hindrances or obstacles to meditation including boredom and lack of faith or trust in the practice. Boredom will pass, you can have trust by expecting nothing. Usually, if one falls asleep, it means you are too tired or the mind is 'weak' or overworked. Try some walking meditation before sitting, and if you are a beginner don't sit for more than 30 min. Keep ypur practice simple and consistant and you will see results. In the beginning you may just notice that your emotions are slightly buffered. Once you have a foundation you can undertake practices that involve some visualization; then you might 'feel' more sensations in meditation. It also works better if you play the role in your daily life; trying to be more calm, compassionate, patient and such. It all goes hand-in-hand. Cultivate a new attitude toward the practice, be consistant, patient and you will have results

Hi, I have just joined this forum to become part of the Taoist community. I moved to a remote area... no other Tao people. I have practiced Qigong/Shengong for 14 years and TaijiQuan as well. I am not a religious Taoist, but practicing. Look forward to shering with you and helping one another. Anything is possible, and may the Force be with you