A Brief Discussion on Cultivation and Mind Training
The process of practicing Qigong requires us to continuously calm our complicated and restless ordinary mind, ultimately allowing our true nature to manifest. So how do we subdue this restless ordinary mind? This is the key to “mind training.”
Each of us lives in this material world, where the mind is enslaved by external desires, influenced by the six senses, and burdened by the seven emotions. It is not easy to subdue this ordinary mind. The notion of “self” leads to excessive attachment to “I.” A person practicing Qigong must always pay attention to accumulating their virtue and blessings, and should cultivate good relationships.
We must connect with heavenly relationships above, align ourselves with natural laws; build human relationships in the middle by nurturing sincere and harmonious interpersonal connections; and establish earthly relationships below by coexisting harmoniously with all things. In this way, we can form a good spiritual network system with the surrounding world.
If we can continuously cultivate ourselves at any time and place, constantly reflect on ourselves, we will gradually free ourselves from excessive attachment to the “self.” As Xunzi said: “Accumulating earth forms mountains; wind and rain arise from them; accumulating water forms deep pools; dragons are born there; accumulating goodness forms virtue, leading to enlightenment; a sage’s heart is thus complete.”
The “Observation of the Heart Method” is an effective and reliable method for mind training. The so-called “observing the heart” means letting go of our ordinary mind and objectively reflecting on this restless ordinary heart; it is a method of introspection.
When our ordinary heart becomes restless, we must immediately be alert and step outside of our emotional situation. By observing our inner self from another perspective, our focus will shift from external distractions back to our true nature.
This transformation is essentially a process that cuts off the root causes of various delusions. Adopting an attitude that allows us to both enter into situations while being able to step outside them will enable our Qigong practice to gradually reach higher levels.
If one’s heart is tainted by greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, or doubt, one cannot be pure or diligent in studying Buddhism or Taoism. Cultivation means sincerely repenting for and cleansing these impurities within our hearts. If we can remain vigilant at all times—free from greed, anger, arrogance, or pride—we can maintain compassion and joy while treating others gently.
The softer and humbler one’s mindset is, the more one can interact with others in a gentle manner. Cultivation requires constant self-reflection; if one makes a mistake, they should repent immediately. If one knows they are wrong but refuses to admit it, that itself is an error. If this becomes a habit, it will hinder one’s progress in their spiritual practice!
by – Phoenix Mountain Range Cihuang Palace
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