Art

Hello all, I hope this topic arrives to you in the spirit intended. I have recently been dabbling with my knowledge of magnetism and "electricity". I, like most, were taught the information contained in classical physics as it relates to these topics. Recently I stumbled on to some discussions regarding the work of individuals such as Nikola Tesla, Eric Dollard, Ed Leedskalnin, and others. My imagination has been bursting at the seems with the implications of what their work (often suppressed) has on our basic understanding. For example, gravity is not a separate force. It is due to the magnetic moment within objects. In fact, all there is is magnetism, as some in these discussions have proposed. There are no electrons or protons, rather they are the same particle and the charge they have is due to the direction they are facing. Another discussion concerns flow of charge (and flow of magnetic current); we are taught there is only one current but in actuality there are two.... The list goes on and on; not discrediting anything, but opening up to new possibilities. I've relayed this information rather poorly and hastily, but when taken into context of yin/yang polarity, these discussions make some sense. Ah, assimilation of knowledge. Learning, unlearning, relearning, starting over again. Any discussion would be appreciated. I'm no expert and am learning these things myself, but am open to bringing these discussions to you all as well. Regards, Art

Hike the Appalachian Trail. Seriously. All it takes is time and effort. Sure, like anything else, you can overcomplicate it with, "the best gear", "logistics", "freeze dried foods", etc. If you keep identifying barriers and limitations they will always be there. It sounds like you need to get out and your desire to cultivate is obvious. So, why not just do it already. I'm not trying to be insulting or demeaning; I honestly think you should find the closest trailhead, get some used gear, and go. Head South. You can buy a used trail guide and as long as you have some funds available, stock up on supplies every few days or so. Who knows where you'll end up or what you'll find. But, thats the point isn't it? Sent with good intentions - best of luck to you.

Hello Marius! It is rare to speak to someone who openly admits they are "new" and "know nothing". A lot of people have wandered here with years of experience, so it is refreshing to gain a new perspective. That being said, I am not a "master" and please take anything I say with a grain of salt; I am still learning and growing myself. This has been written with the best of intentions towards your growth. If I may, please allow me to make some observations and offer what I feel to be appropriate advice. 1) First and foremost, you seem to be someone who is making an honest attempt at pure pursuits, so that is a great start. Try not strive for power and seek the peace within. 2) This one is difficult; remain open-minded while developing your abilities to discern "truthful" information. The internet can be a valuable garden in a rotting shit-pile; one pretty much needs to sift through the shit to find the fruit. 3) It seems you've read up a little and have gotten some great advice, but try not to hold yourself to someone else's standards or definitions. This path you are on is yours to take and others may provide valuable advice along the way, however, try not to rely on anyone but yourself to find your way. 4) Focus on the journey and not the destination. When I began my journey within, it was comforting to simultaneously discover and learn about the different stages of growth. As mentioned, no two stories are the same, but I do believe in synchronicity; a person happens along the right information at the right time. Being able to know where you are on your journey helps. 5) If you've made it this far, then you have already been told what you need to know by the other responses. Start with posture, and breath, and move into mind. Its not necessarily "step-wise"; you can develop each simultaneously. Practice is key and as mentioned, "there are no overnight masters". Take it slow and steady and try to keep your "effort" between 70 and 80%. 6) I've found the breath to be key in advancing my posture and grounding the mind. The mind will wander and like others have said, that is natural. Once you learn to observe your mind and how it works, then you can learn to detach from thoughts. These are difficult things to describe in words but with practice and experience, you will come to understand. Abdominal breathing has changed my life and allowed for some of the things you are seeking. In particular, I use this: http://www.amazon.com/Longevity-Breathing-Whole-Lifelong-Vitality/dp/1556438443/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322195676&sr=8-1 Don't feel pressured to spend money as the majority of what you need can be found here, shared freely by the kind and knowledgeable members of TTBs. 7) It may be helpful to remain grounded. The word "master" gets tossed around a lot; in my opinion, this is used because it is common nature to strive for the best, the top. This may or may not be attainable given one's intent and practice. Quite a few of those who claim to be "masters" aren't; on the other hand, you may run into quite a few "masters" on a daily basis and not even know it, until you have the eyes to see. 8) When the time if right, you will meet a "master" who can help you develop your "higher self". (I can't speak of this by experience because I am not there yet. Someday, but not yet; I am enjoying life as it is right now and don't have the proper time to become a "master"). Again, this was written with the best of intentions. I purposefully tried to stay away from "absolutist" statements, which is the reason for the "wordiness". Perhaps some of this is not necessary to share at this time and only complicates your request, but I believe this is the best I can offer for you. Don't over-think it; keep your intent honest and pure, get comfortable and focus on the breath, let go and relax. There is little else you need to do. Wishing you the best of luck, Art

http://www.catcreek.com/rosecreek.html

It is a small world. I live less than 5 miles off the same main road, Rose Creek.

For me the obstacle wasn't necessarily at the beginning, but how to integrate meditation into my daily life. At first I found it rather easy to meditate, and it became a bit addicting, like an escape. There were the personal issues that arose, and the lessons learned from processing said issues. I then fell into the attachment trap, trying to replicate phenomena experienced in the meditative state. Unfortunately I became a bit withdrawn; at peace, yes, but not necessarily engaged (or as much as I should have been). Eventually I came to experiment with "the meditative state" during the entire day, not necessarily for some arbitrary unit of time with preset conditions. Whether or not I was able to actually do this is up for debate, but I'm not hung up on it.... While I've made great strides and experienced many positive changes, I still have awhile to go. Each discovery, experience, spark, answer, whatever you want to call it, led to more questions, more searching. At some point I surrendered to all of the "mental masturbation" and let go. Perhaps my experiment was misleading as I do not have a meditation routine; it just happens when the time is right. I don't look for it, but try to remain open as much as possible. I do think setting aside a specific time again would benefit me greatly; starting over, for lack of a better term. Like others, I tend to be a bit full of myself. Oh how I miss those first days of discovery....

I recently was offered the opportunity to reflect on my past and work on dissolving "hate" towards another. However, it was through a third person, who was involved, that this came about. He basically admitted to wronging me in the past by being with my girlfriend. I had forgiven him long ago, and it offered me a chance to tell him, which likely brought him some relief. However, it reminded me of just how much hate I had stored for that ex-girlfriend, still to this day. Its take some time, but using the tools mentioned in this thread have helped me to understand the root cause and work on releasing those feelings. Perhaps one of the more "enlightening" aspects of this exercise has been the humility brought upon by not being as "spiritually advanced" as I thought I was, not even close. That revelation, in and of itself, has also opened doors to a higher understanding about the ego, etc. I love little these little journeys of exploration. To those on the path, both learning from, and teaching each other, thank you for all you do to make this world a better place.

Surely the answers will vary, greatly, from individual to individual. I've always been a fan of Led Zeppelin and can always groove to their music. Strangely enough though, I've been rocking out to Pantera lately and it really seems to have a strange calming influence. Maybe its the surge of energy from the heavy metal that perhaps allows a certain "cleansing".... I'll have to check out Tool again and look into APC.

I agree for the most-part with everything that has been written here. With that said, there are a few members who do provide a much-needed reality check for those who "have their head in the clouds, but lack having their feet on the ground".... In the end, your experience is yours. Should someone say something that doesn't resonate with you, wish them peace, bid them farewell, and move on. I'm not trying to disagree with the OP, but offering another perspective on the matter. Anything is possible, and placing time measurements on spiritual advancement, to me, hinders any progression. For some, it could take a lifetime to learn and discover. For others, it could take a day. Learning and growing never stop and the destination is not necessarily where one should focus, but rather the journey. Please forgive my humble attempts to share wise words, for I really don't know anything.

Dearest bums, After being mired in a funk for some time I've managed to stop digging and crawl back out. With renewed vigor, I am interested in restarting my practice. I've ran across Dr. Yang before and was pleased with his approach and products. If I may, does anyone here have experience with this system that they would like to share? http://ymaa.com/publishing/books/external/essence_of_shaolin_white_crane http://ymaa.com/publishing/dvd/qigong_DVD/shaolin_white_crane_qigong_DVD Deepest regards, Art

Greetings bums. I have some simple observations to make and wanted to know your thoughts. I live in a rural community in Western North Carolina. Life is a bit slower than in the city and space has never been an issue. Having lived in Houston for some time, I do know what city life is like. With that said, it seems EVERYONE and I mean EVERYONE has been affected by something lately that has spawned a change in behavior; rural folk acting out like city folk. No offense to anyone who lives in a city, but to me, the crowding in cities makes people unfriendly and downright rude to strangers. Mind you, this is not a major change, but it seems everyone is on edge, defensive, ready for "fight or flight". I even see it here, on TTB forum. People I consider very wise, acting out in ways that I would never have thought. Or maybe I'm just overly sensitive and making connections that aren't really there. Again, no offense intended. I believe in the "group consciousness" model. So, perhaps with all of the fear mongering and uncertainty out there, people are just reacting and acting out. I also subscribe to the possibility that consciousness can be affected by the earth, sun, galaxy, etc. As an example, during a full moon some people act out. However, this isn't your normal full moon "reaction".... At any rate, is it just me, or is anyone else noticing this? Any comments greatly appreciated. Regards, Art

Maybe its just me and the fact that I grew up a younger, third child ("alone"), but I actively seek time for myself. One could even say that I am introverted and selfish. As for your comment, I observe this ALOT about the younger generation. With all their gadgets, internet, and TV. Not like I'm one to talk, but I actively seek opportunities for quietude whereas it appears they actively avoid it. Perhaps I was that way too when I was younger.... Not one to hijack a thread, I will step aside unless specifically asked about something in our location....

TVA reservoirs like Lake Chatuge, Lake Santeela, Lake Fontana, Lake Glenville. All smaller lakes and mostly "sport-use", i.e., no "Party Heat" like on TV. The lakes are nice and I also enjoy the countless streams/rivers. Ran across this piece of property yesterday - you can't find a better deal anywhere http://www.mountainwayrealty.com/Robbinsville-Landa-Squally.htm Of course, with all of the National Forest land, there is no need to be greedy and "have your own". Its rather easy to live in a small town like Franklin and be just minutes away from it all.

My goodness, a TaoBum from Western NC?!? Our little neck of the woods (Southern Appalachia) is paradise. Not for all - my sister from Illinois can't stand being "surrounded" by our mountains when she visits, but I love it. Ain't never going back to flatland. I still manage to let my breathe get taken away gazing off into the wilds.... To each their own. I'd strongly suggest to anyone who doesn't like where they live to do whatever it takes to move somewhere else. I know, easier said than done. For many years I lived a complicated life in complicated places. I only recently found happiness through switching careers and living in a rural setting. But, what do I know; most city-folk can't stand the "not noisy", "uncrowded", "nothing to do" of our little corner of heaven. Suits me fine. A seeker - I'm in Franklin.

I am certainly no authority figure and am myself a humble practicioner, but I've picked up these ideas and held fast to them along my journey: 1) Enlightenment cannot be described to another. It can only be experienced. 2) There is no goal to reach, no standard to measure oneself by. 3) There are many paths to enlightenment, all are to be respected as equal. 4) Someone who trys to sell you enlightenment is not enlightened. 5) Someone who says it must be this way or that, is not enlightened. 6) Enlightenment is to be found within yourself, not outside. 7) You cannot judge for youself whether you are enlightened. In my experience, I cannot claim to have reached "enlightenment". My practice results in states of peace and bliss, which help me to live a balanced life. I often get compliments on my attitude and how I treat others. That doesn't mean I'm enlightened, just a nice guy. After you get many replies, some better than others, you may want to ask yourself, why am I asking? What is it you are looking for or what are you trying to accomplish with these studies? The answers to those questions will tell you more than any reply here. Lastly I must apologize to our more experienced and knowledgable members. I am no Buddhist or Buddhist scholar, nor even a Daoist scholar; just a wanna-be, making mistakes and learning along the way, and I'm fine with that. Looking forward to other replies.

Hello fellow TTBs, I am wondering if any of you have experience either first hand, or through close family/friends, with any of the diseases categorized as IBD - Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis)? I currently do not have health insurance and am facing a tough decision regarding treatment. Continuing to suffer and deal with the symptoms is unacceptable and I do not want to take unnecessary risks with my health any longer. First and foremost, I do plan to enroll in a Medicare package and seek out a doctor soon. There is a small window for surgery (I'm fairly certain is needed) to where I shouldn't lose too much "work" (expecting 4-8 weeks). This window is at the end of July/August, but I need to start getting my ducks in a row now. Second, I would like to proactively manage my treatment using any and all sorts of alternative treatments that have worked for others. I doubt I will be able to "skip surgery", but afterwards would rather practice homeopathic/natural therapies as opposed to pharmaceuticals. Any and all information would be greatly appreciated! Regards, Art

Greetings Bums, I am interested in visiting the Yin Yang House in Chattanooga, TN for some acupuncture treatment(s) and was wondering if anyone had any experience dealing with them. I recently ran across their website and was very impressed with the content. When I discovered they were near where I live (approx 3 hour drive) I became more interested in a visit. Thanks for your help! Art

Mr. Eric, Thank you for sharing these tips. For those of us who are without proper instruction (i.e. teacher/"program"), every once in awhile we stumble across some invaluable information that has the potential for breakthroughs in understanding and development. Your suggestions have greatly improved the quality of my practice and again, I am very thankful for your assistance. Kindest regards, Art

I have questions about qi flow through the 12 channels and 8 vessels. Can qi flow both "directions" naturally, or only in "reverse" with intention (yi)? The reason I ask this concerns the MCO and my studies of the meridians. The renmai "flows" yin qi from lower dandien, through perenium up to bottom of tongue. In MCO, on inhale, qi is gathered in lower dandien, flows yang qi up dumai vessel to top of mouth. On exhale, yin qi flows down renmai back to lower dandien. I've done this exercise several times and felt the energy move. I would like to explore the other channels and "big orbit". Are there channels/vessels in the big orbit that are reversed as well? Additionally, if one were to use yi to reverse flow through a particular meridian, does the "qi" remain yin/yang (depending on meridian)? Maybe another way of asking is, can you flow yin qi backwards through a yang meridian? Thanks!!! Art

Greetings. Perhpas your friend could use the money, but if she could afford to "let it go", perhaps should could donate the book to a local library. I was suprised to find Dr. Roger Jahnke's "The Healing Promise of Qi" in ours and checked it out. I hope someday to at least share/donate my books... Something to ponder at the very least.

Jane, Thank you for being so open and honest. I also have a past history of anxiety and depression and have found meditation helpful in calming and relaxing. With that I am able to deal with my emotions. Taking responsibility and control were key to overcoming "being a victim".... Art

Saltydeath, I'd have to agree with this sentiment and even take it one step further. If your goal is to share and help people learn qigong, then one could even argue that it should be "free" or donation-based (this is the path I would like to take - sharing and learning from each other). If you are looking to make a living, then I'd have to agree with the others and acheive full certification/credentials. I tend to get turned off by "packages" and "deals" too, but am going to try Winn's Primordial Qigong because it is close and convenient. Perhaps you will find someone close to your location for guidance as well. Good luck! Art